Save A comforting, family-friendly casserole combining creamy tomato soup with layers of buttery, cheesy bread, baked to golden perfection.
Growing up, grilled cheese and tomato soup was our go-to rainy day meal. This casserole bake elevates those nostalgic flavors into one easy, satisfying dish the whole family asks for again and again.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, for sautéing
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Crushed tomatoes: 2 cans (14 oz each)
- Vegetable broth: 2 cups
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Dried basil: 1 teaspoon
- Dried oregano: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Heavy cream: 1/2 cup
- Sourdough or country bread: 8 slices
- Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons, softened
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 2 cups (8 oz), shredded
- Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup (4 oz), shredded
Instructions
- Prepare casserole dish:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
- Sauté vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Simmer soup:
- Add crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, sugar, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Finish soup:
- Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Prepare sandwiches:
- While soup simmers, spread butter on one side of each bread slice. Place 4 bread slices buttered side down and top with cheddar and mozzarella. Cover with remaining bread, buttered side up, to form 4 sandwiches.
- Grill sandwiches:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Grill sandwiches 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Cool slightly and cut each sandwich into quarters.
- Assemble casserole:
- Pour half the soup into the casserole dish. Top with half the sandwich quarters. Pour remaining soup over, then top with remaining sandwich pieces.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
Save My kids love helping layer the grilled cheese pieces in the soup before baking. It always brings everyone together around the table.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad and your favorite white wine for a complete meal.
Substitutions
Try gluten-free bread or use Gruyère or provolone cheese for a tasty twist.
Nutrition
Each serving contains approx 440 calories, 25g fat, 38g carbohydrates, and 15g protein.
Save Enjoy this ultimate comfort food casserole hot and bubbly with an extra sprinkle of fresh basil on top!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, Gruyère or provolone can replace cheddar and mozzarella for a unique flavor profile.
- → How do I make this casserole gluten-free?
Simply substitute the bread with gluten-free varieties to suit dietary needs.
- → What enhances the tomato soup flavor?
A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle heat and depth to the tomato base.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can assemble the casserole ahead and refrigerate before baking to save time.
- → What side dishes pair well with this bake?
A light salad and crisp white wine are great companions to balance richness.