Creamy Tomato and Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Sandwiches Recipe

Nothing beats the comforting combination of creamy tomato soup and a grilled cheese sandwich. This recipe takes it up a notch with the addition of fresh basil and a deliciously creamy soup base. It's perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner on a chilly day.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 slices bread
• 8 slices cheddar cheese
• Butter for grilling

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until soft and translucent.
2. Add the crushed tomatoes and broth to the pot and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes.
3. Remove the pot from the heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and puree in batches.
4. Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Preheat a grill pan over medium heat. Butter one side of each slice of bread and place butter-side down in the pan.
6. Add a slice of cheddar cheese to four of the slices of bread. Grill until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.
7. Place the remaining slices of bread on top of the cheese and grill until golden brown.
8. Cut the grilled cheese sandwiches in half and serve alongside the creamy tomato and basil soup.

This Creamy Tomato and Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Sandwiches recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It's easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in. The fresh basil adds a lovely flavor to the soup, while the grilled cheese sandwiches provide the perfect crunch and cheesy goodness. Give it a try and let us know what you think!