When the weather turns chilly and you’re craving something warm and hearty, few dishes offer the same level of comfort as a bowl of tomato soup paired with cheese and onion toast. This timeless pairing combines the richness and tang of tomato soup with the savory goodness of melted cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, and the satisfying crunch of crusty bread. It’s the ultimate comfort food for a cozy night in, and its simplicity makes it perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal.
In this recipe, we’ll guide you through creating a velvety smooth tomato soup that’s bursting with flavor, alongside golden, cheesy toast topped with sweet, tender onions. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a family gathering, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Why Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast?
Nutrient-Packed and Filling
Tomato soup provides an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious and filling dish. When paired with cheddar cheese—rich in calcium and protein—and hearty onion toast, you have a balanced meal that will keep you warm and satisfied.
Quick and Easy to Prepare
Despite its comforting richness, this recipe is surprisingly simple and quick to make. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or for guests, it can be ready in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
Perfect for All Ages
Both children and adults alike will enjoy the flavors of tomato soup and cheese toast. The creamy soup is mild and flavorful, while the cheesy toast adds a crunchy, indulgent component that everyone loves. It’s a meal that appeals to all palates.
Ingredients for Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast
To make this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients. The quantities listed below will serve 4 people.
For the Tomato Soup:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 2 cloves |
| Crushed tomatoes (canned) | 28 oz |
| Vegetable broth | 3 cups |
| Tomato paste | 1 tablespoon |
| Sugar (optional) | 1 teaspoon |
| Basil (dried or fresh) | ½ teaspoon dried / 1 tablespoon fresh |
| Thyme (optional) | ½ teaspoon dried |
| Heavy cream or milk (optional) | ½ cup |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
For Cheese and Onion Toast:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onion, thinly sliced | 2 small |
| Crusty bread slices | 4 |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
Optional Garnish:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh parsley or chives, chopped | To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Tomato Soup
Aromatic Base
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and soft. Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Building the Flavor
Now, it’s time to build the rich base of the soup. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, tomato paste, and basil. For a more complex flavor, you can also add the thyme. If the tomatoes taste too acidic, a teaspoon of sugar will balance the acidity and add a slight sweetness to the soup. Stir everything together to combine.
Simmer and Blend
Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for 15-20 minutes. This will give the flavors time to meld together and develop. Once the soup is cooked, use an immersion blender to purée the mixture directly in the pot. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender. If you prefer a creamier texture, add the heavy cream or milk after blending, stirring it in to achieve a smooth, velvety consistency. Finish by seasoning the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Preparing the Cheese and Onion Toast
Preheat the Broiler
Set your oven’s broiler to high, ensuring that it’s preheated and ready to crisp up the bread and melt the cheese.
Assemble the Toast
While the soup is simmering, prepare the cheese and onion toast. Place the slices of crusty bread on a baking sheet. Layer each slice with a generous amount of thinly sliced onions, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese will melt and turn golden brown as it broils, while the onions will soften and caramelize, adding a sweet, savory contrast to the dish.
Broil to Perfection
Place the baking sheet under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, keeping a close watch to ensure the cheese doesn’t burn. The cheese should melt completely, becoming bubbly and golden brown, while the onions should caramelize and become tender.
3. Serving the Dish
Once both the tomato soup and cheese and onion toast are ready, it’s time to serve:
- Ladle the hot tomato soup into individual bowls. For a burst of freshness, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives.
- Serve the cheese and onion toast on the side, or for a more indulgent twist, place it directly into the soup to soak up the rich, tangy broth. The bread will soften and absorb the delicious tomato flavor while maintaining a slight crunch at the edges.
Tips for the Perfect Tomato Soup and Cheese Toast
- Adjust the thickness of the soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the broth by ½ cup or blend the soup for a longer time to achieve a more condensed texture.
- Enhance the flavors: For extra depth, you can add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
- Make ahead: Both the soup and the cheese toast can be made ahead of time. Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for later use. Reheat and broil the toast just before serving.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of rich tomato soup and cheese toast. This meal is a celebration of simple, yet deeply satisfying flavors. The creamy soup balances the sharpness of the cheddar cheese, while the caramelized onions add a sweet, savory layer that elevates the entire dish. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold winter’s night or serving it at a cozy gathering, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.