Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast: A Comfort-Food Classic Reimagined
There’s something timeless about a bowl of tomato soup—simple, soothing, and wonderfully nostalgic. But paired with a golden, bubbly cheese and onion toast, this humble classic rises to new heights. The sweetness of slowly simmered tomatoes meets the sharp richness of melted cheese and the aromatic bite of sautéed onions, creating a dish that feels both familiar and excitingly fresh.
Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend lunch, or a comforting treat on a chilly afternoon, this Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast offers warmth, flavor, and pure satisfaction.
Why This Dish Works
1. Layers of Flavor in Every Bite
The soup combines the brightness of tomatoes with subtle herbs, a touch of garlic, and creaminess for balance. The accompanying toast adds texture and richness—crispy beneath, melty on top.
2. Simple Ingredients, Big Comfort
Everything needed is easy to find, budget-friendly, and likely already in your kitchen. Yet the result tastes like something you’d proudly serve to guests.
3. Customizable and Flexible
Make the soup chunky or smooth, add heat with chili flakes, or choose your favorite cheese blend. The recipe adapts beautifully to your taste.
Ingredients
For the Tomato Soup:
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 onion, finely chopped
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 carrot, diced (optional for sweetness)
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1 tbsp tomato paste
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800 g canned tomatoes (or 5–6 ripe fresh tomatoes, chopped)
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2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
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1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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¼ tsp dried thyme or basil (optional)
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¼ cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for richness)
For the Cheese and Onion Toast:
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4 slices crusty bread
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1 tbsp butter
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1 small onion, thinly sliced
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1 cup grated cheese (cheddar, Gruyère, mozzarella, or a mix)
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Fresh ground pepper
How to Make It
1. Simmer the Soup
Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent. Add garlic and carrot, cooking until fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste, letting it caramelize slightly for deeper flavor.
Add tomatoes and broth, season with salt, pepper, herbs, and sugar if using. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes.
Blend using an immersion blender for a smooth finish—or leave it chunky if you prefer. Stir in cream to finish.
2. Prepare the Cheese and Onion Toast
While the soup simmers, melt butter in a skillet and cook the onion until golden and sweet.
Toast the bread lightly, then pile the caramelized onions on top and cover generously with cheese.
Broil or grill until melted, bubbly, and slightly browned.
3. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot tomato soup into bowls and crown each serving with a cheese and onion toast—either served on the side or placed directly on top for a French-onion-soup-style finish.
Tips & Variations
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Add herbs: Fresh basil or parsley brightens the soup.
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Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper or smoked paprika.
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Go vegan: Use coconut milk and dairy-free cheese.
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Boost protein: Add white beans to the soup or use a protein-rich bread for the toast.
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