Description
This Creamy Tomato Bisque is velvety smooth, rich in tomato flavor, and perfectly balanced with a touch of cream. Paired with crispy, cheesy grilled cheese croutons, it’s the ultimate bowl of comfort on any day.
This Creamy Tomato Bisque is velvety smooth, rich in tomato flavor, and perfectly balanced with a touch of cream. Paired with crispy, cheesy grilled cheese croutons, it’s the ultimate bowl of comfort on any day.
Ingredients
For the tomato bisque:
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 medium onion, diced
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tbsp tomato paste
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1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
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2 cups vegetable broth
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1 tsp sugar
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½ tsp dried basil
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½ tsp salt (or to taste)
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¼ tsp black pepper
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½ cup heavy cream
For the grilled cheese croutons:
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4 slices of bread (preferably sourdough or white sandwich bread)
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 tbsp butter
Instructions
1️⃣ Sauté aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
2️⃣ Add tomato base: Mix in the tomato paste and stir for 1 minute. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Add sugar, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
3️⃣ Simmer and blend: Let the mixture simmer for 15 minutes. Then, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth (or transfer carefully to a blender in batches).
4️⃣ Add cream: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it heat through for 2-3 more minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.
5️⃣ Prepare grilled cheese croutons: Butter one side of each bread slice. Place shredded cheese between two slices (buttered side out). Grill in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crispy on both sides. Let cool slightly, then cut into bite-sized cubes.
6️⃣ Serve: Ladle the warm bisque into bowls. Top generously with grilled cheese croutons. Enjoy immediately!
Notes
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Tomatoes: For deeper flavor, you can roast fresh tomatoes instead of using canned. Roast halved Roma tomatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes with olive oil and garlic.
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Texture: If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only half the bisque and mix it back in with the rest.
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Cream Alternative: You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, coconut milk, or a plant-based cream for a lighter or dairy-free option.
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Cheese Options: Sharp cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, Gruyère, or even pepper jack can elevate your grilled cheese croutons.
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Bread Tips: Day-old bread holds up better when grilled and cubed. Avoid overly soft or airy bread for croutons.
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Freezing: The bisque freezes well for up to 3 months. Add cream only after reheating for best texture.
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Make Ahead: The soup base can be made a day in advance and actually tastes better after sitting overnight!
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 25 min