There’s nothing quite like the embrace of a warm, hearty soup to soothe the soul, especially as cooler days settle in. This creamy tomato soup paired with cheese and caramelized onion toast is the perfect comfort food combination. Not only is it delightfully simple to make, but it’s also sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Let’s dive into this comforting recipe that will make your kitchen smell heavenly and your taste buds dance.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
Tomato soup is a classic favorite, but adding a creamy twist elevates its richness and texture, making it even more irresistible. Pair it with cheesy, caramelized onion toast, and you have the perfect match: tangy, smooth soup with the sweet and savory crunch of loaded toast. This pairing is ideal for cozy nights at home, whether you’re sharing the warmth with family, friends, or simply indulging solo.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Creamy Tomato Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Adds a subtle flavor and serves as the base for sautéing.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – Provides depth and sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a hint of aromatic sharpness.
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes – The star ingredient, providing tanginess and body.
- 2 cups vegetable broth – Balances the flavors and gives the soup a lighter consistency.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil – Infuses the soup with an earthy, herbaceous note.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream – Creates that velvety texture.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
For the Cheese and Caramelized Onion Toast:
- 1 tablespoon butter – Helps to caramelize the onions perfectly.
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced – For that delicious, sweet, caramelized flavor.
- 4 slices of crusty bread – Holds up well under the toppings.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully and adds a gooey, cheesy layer.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Making the Soup:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing its flavor to bloom.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and dried basil. Stir and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a slightly chunky texture, pulse until your desired consistency.
- Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm over low heat.
2. Preparing the Cheese and Caramelized Onion Toast:
- While the soup is simmering, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and cook until caramelized, about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Preheat your broiler.
- Place the slices of crusty bread on a baking sheet. Spoon the caramelized onions onto each slice and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Broil for a few minutes, watching closely until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
Ladle the creamy tomato soup into bowls and serve with the cheese and caramelized onion toast on the side or as a delightful dipper. For an added touch, sprinkle fresh basil or a dash of cracked black pepper on the soup.
Final Thoughts
This creamy tomato soup with cheese and caramelized onion toast is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for weeknights, cozy weekends, or whenever you need a little culinary comfort, this recipe is bound to bring joy to your table. So, gather your ingredients and let the magic of simple, heartfelt cooking fill your home.
Creamy Tomato Soup with Cheese and Caramelized Onion Toast
Description
Indulge in a comforting bowl of creamy tomato soup paired with delicious cheese and caramelized onion toast. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a cozy meal at home. Share the warmth with family and friends!
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese and Caramelized Onion Toast:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 4 slices of crusty bread
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and dried basil to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. While the soup is simmering, prepare the toast. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Preheat the broiler. Place bread slices on a baking sheet. Spoon the caramelized onions onto each slice and top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve the cheese and caramelized onion toast alongside the creamy tomato soup. Enjoy!