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I revamped traditional tomato soup after wanting something beyond the basic grilled cheese dip. These days, the cheesy bread bits swimming in deep, oven-roasted tomato soup bring joy to everyone's face. It's homey food that's been upgraded just enough to feel a bit fancy while staying totally comfy.
Easy Wonder
Popping those tomatoes in the oven really brings out their natural sweetness. Throw in our crispy cheese-covered bread chunks and suddenly that old familiar soup feels completely new. It's just what you need when you want something that warms you up from within.
Soup Ingredients
- Whole Tomatoes: A pair of large cans for rich taste.
- Onion: A single big one cut into cubes, nice and mellow.
- Garlic: Four cloves chopped tiny.
- Butter: A couple tablespoons for smoothness.
- Olive Oil: A couple tablespoons for the oven step.
- Broth: Three cups veggie keeps everything airy.
- Seasonings: Italian spices plus salt and pepper as needed.
- Fresh Herbs: Some basil or thyme makes it look fancy.
For These Wonderful Croutons
- Sourdough: Four pieces ripped up country-style.
- Butter: Three tablespoons melted till amber.
- Italian Seasoning: A teaspoon gives it kick.
- Cheese Mix: The combo of cheddar, mozzarella and parmesan works wonders.
Soup Preparation
- First Step
- Combine tomatoes, onion, garlic, butter and oil in your cooking pot.
- Oven Time
- Cook at 400° for 45 minutes until everything browns nicely.
- Smooth It Out
- Use your blender to make it creamy, keep some texture if you want.
- Last Steps
- Mix in broth, add your spices, let everything bubble together.
Creating Croutons
- Ready Your Bread
- Mix those ripped bread chunks with butter and seasonings.
- Brown Them
- Stick them in the oven until they turn golden.
- Spread The Goodness
- Float croutons on soup then sprinkle with cheese.
- Quick Broil
- Keep an eye out until everything gets melty and brown.
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Helpful Tips
The soup stays good in your fridge about 5 days. You can fix those croutons beforehand and keep them 3 days in an airtight container. Try different cheeses but make sure you've got one that melts really well. Cooking for lots of people? Just double the soup and use 50% more croutons.
Get It Right
Go for high-quality tomatoes, it really shows in the flavor. Make sure that bread gets evenly coated with butter for the best crunch. Watch that cheese while it's under the broiler as it browns quickly. Always taste your soup before you serve it and tweak those seasonings as needed.
Ready To Eat
Dish it up hot with fresh herbs scattered on top. A side of green salad balances it nicely. Feeling extra hungry? Add some buttery garlic bread or a classic grilled cheese sandwich. A nice red wine makes it feel special.
Leftovers Info
Store soup with a lid in your fridge for up to 5 days. Keep croutons in a different container so they don't get soggy. Heat soup slowly on your stovetop or quickly in your microwave. Put croutons in the oven for 5 minutes to crisp them up again, don't use the microwave for these.
Change It Up
Try adding a splash of cream or a spoonful of sour cream. Want some heat? Toss in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Switch up herbs for new flavors, oregano or dill work great. Need more filling? Add some shredded chicken or crispy bacon bits.
Total Comfort
This soup combines all our favorite comfort food elements. That deep oven-roasted tomato base with crunchy cheese-topped bread bites. Works great for family meals, looks nice enough for guests, and feels just right when you're eating alone.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make it in advance?
- Sure! The soup stays fresh refrigerated for 5 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Croutons last 3 days in a sealed container.
- → How do I get a creamier texture?
- Stir in up to 1/2 cup of cream before blending for an ultra-rich and creamy finish.
- → Can I switch the herbs?
- Absolutely! Swap basil with thyme for a fresh twist. Fresh herbs always taste best.
- → Why roast the tomatoes?
- It amps up the flavor by caramelizing the tomatoes and garlic, making the soup taste way richer.
- → What’s the best bread to use for croutons?
- Pick a good crusty sourdough. Sturdy bread works best for holding all that gooey cheese.
Conclusion
Warm, flavorful tomato soup taken up a notch with roasted veggies and cheesy croutons for a comforting twist on a classic.