Cheesy tomato soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the rich, tangy taste of ripe tomatoes with the creamy goodness of melted cheese. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a warm, satisfying meal, this soup is easy to prepare and guaranteed to please. The addition of cheese adds a luxurious texture and depth of flavor, making it a standout version of the classic tomato soup. Serve it with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate cozy dining experience.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
- Croutons, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth:
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken or vegetable broth.
- Stir in the dried basil and oregano.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Blend the Soup:
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth. Return the blended soup to the pot.
- Add Cream and Cheese:
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring the soup back to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth.
- Serve:
- Ladle the cheesy tomato soup into bowls.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and croutons, if desired.
Enjoy your warm, creamy, and delicious cheesy tomato soup!
