There’s something absolutely magical about a steaming bowl of Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast. The tangy-sweet tomato base, the hint of aromatic herbs, and the creamy swirl all set the scene for a cozy meal, but it’s the bubbling cheese toast with savory onion that truly takes this comforting dish to new heights. Whether you’re reminiscing about childhood lunches or treating yourself to a soul-warming dinner, Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast always delivers both flavor and nostalgia, effortlessly bridging simple ingredients and big, unforgettable taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because it turns humble, everyday ingredients into something heartwarming and spectacular. Every component of Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast is chosen for its ability to elevate taste and texture—no fancy tricks, just pure kitchen confidence.
- Olive oil: Provides a silky base and enhances the natural flavors of the onions and tomatoes.
- Yellow onion: Adds just the right sweetness and body to the soup, making it comforting and aromatic.
- Garlic: Gives rich, savory depth—you’ll notice the difference in every spoonful.
- Tomato paste: Helps to deepen the tomato flavor for a truly robust base.
- Dried oregano: Brings a subtle herbal note that pairs beautifully with tomatoes and cheese.
- Sugar: Balances out acidity from the tomatoes—just a touch makes all the difference.
- Canned whole peeled tomatoes: The heart of the soup; choose good quality for best results.
- Vegetable broth: Adds depth and rounds out the flavors while keeping things vegetarian-friendly.
- Heavy cream: Gives the soup a plush, luxurious texture and tones down acidity.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
- Crusty bread: The perfect vehicle for gooey cheese and onions, sturdy enough for dipping.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Delivers that iconic cheesy pull and bold flavor, ideal for toast.
- Red onion: Adds a gentle bite and sweetness, balancing the richness of the cheese.
- Butter: Helps the toast turn golden and deliciously crisp under the broiler.
How to Make Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast
Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Begin by warming olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, toss in the chopped yellow onion, letting it soften and turn translucent—this should take about five minutes. The aroma will start to build a promise of comfort. Add the minced garlic and cook for just one minute more, stirring frequently to avoid burning. At this stage, you’re creating the savory backbone of your Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
Stir in the tomato paste, dried oregano, and sugar. Here’s where the flavor really ramps up—the tomato paste to concentrate that sweet-tart tomato goodness, oregano for a whisper of herbaceousness, and a bit of sugar to tame any sharpness. Cook for about another minute, stirring well, until everything smells intensely inviting.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the entire can of whole peeled tomatoes, juices and all, then add your vegetable broth. Use a wooden spoon to gently break down the tomatoes; this will help them meld seamlessly into the soup. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let those flavors mingle uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally and enjoy how the kitchen starts to smell like a cozy café.
Step 4: Blend Until Smooth
Once the soup has simmered and thickened, it’s time to create that velvety texture. Use an immersion blender right in the pot, or carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches, and puree until smooth. This is where Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast achieves that classic creamy consistency you crave.
Step 5: Add the Cream and Season
Return the pureed soup to the pot if needed, stir in the heavy cream, and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. The cream integrates all the layers, making the soup plush and luscious. Taste and adjust the seasoning—you want balanced acidity and gentle warmth.
Step 6: Prepare the Cheese and Onion Toast
While your soup keeps warm, preheat the broiler. Spread softened butter over one side of each slice of crusty bread. Arrange bread, buttered side up, on a baking sheet. Top each with a generous mound of shredded sharp cheddar and a scatter of thinly sliced red onion. Broil for 2 to 4 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is bubbly and golden and the bread edges crisp. This is the delicious topper for your Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast experience.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot, creamy tomato soup into bowls and nestle a golden cheese and onion toast on the side or right on top. Now you’re ready for that first glorious bite—gooey, crispy, and perfectly paired.
How to Serve Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast
Garnishes
A finishing flourish can elevate your Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast from lovely to absolutely irresistible. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, or a dash of cracked black pepper adds color and brightness. For a little crunch, toss on roasted pumpkin seeds or croutons—every bite is a little celebration.
Side Dishes
While this dish is a full meal on its own, a crisp green salad or a plate of roasted vegetables can make it even more satisfying. For a light lunch, pair Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast with a simple arugula salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette. Looking for more comfort? A small bowl of olives, or a few pickles on the side, can add a briny contrast you’ll love.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not serve your Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast in a mug for easy dipping? Or cut the cheese toast into strips for dunking—kids and adults alike will love this playful take. You can even shape the bread with a cookie cutter before toasting for themed lunches or entertaining!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast, let the soup cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The soup will keep well for 3 to 4 days. For the toast, store separately in a zip-top bag or container—it’s easy to crisp up again under the broiler when you’re ready for leftovers.
Freezing
Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast soup component is freezer-friendly. Simply ladle fully cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion. It will last up to 3 months. However, freeze the soup only; the cheese onion toast is best enjoyed fresh for the ultimate crispness, though you can freeze bread and assemble the toasts on demand.
Reheating
Gently reheat the soup in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring often. If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it. For the toast, pop slices under the broiler for a minute or two to restore that irresistible melty cheese and crisp edges. Together, leftovers will taste almost as good as freshly made!
FAQs
Can I make Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast vegan?
Absolutely! Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or any unsweetened plant-based creamer, opt for your favorite vegan cheese, and use plant-based butter on the toast. You’ll enjoy all the cozy flavors, totally dairy-free.
What’s the best bread for the cheese and onion toast?
Go for a rustic, crusty bread—a sourdough or a dense country loaf. The sturdier the bread, the better it will hold up to the melty cheese and still give you that perfect crunch when dipped in the soup.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Definitely! In the height of tomato season, use about 2 pounds of ripe, peeled tomatoes. The soup may be a bit lighter and fresher in flavor, which is a delicious variation on the classic Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast.
Can I make the soup in advance?
Yes, this soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen overnight. Prepare the soup ahead, then make the cheese and onion toast fresh right before serving for the ultimate meal.
How do I make the soup spicier?
Simply add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce when sautéing the onions and garlic. You’ll get a gentle warmth that’s a fantastic twist for those who love a bit of heat in their Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a bowl of classic comfort with a twist, Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast is the dish to try. It’s simple, satisfying, and brings both nostalgia and bold flavor to your table—so grab those ingredients, fire up the stove, and treat yourself or a loved one to a homemade hug in a bowl!
Print
Tomato Soup with Cheese and Onion Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this creamy tomato soup paired with cheesy onion toast, a perfect combination for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- 1 can (28 oz) whole peeled tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Toast:
- 4 slices crusty bread
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter, softened
Instructions
- Soup: Heat olive oil in a large pot, sauté onion until softened. Add garlic, tomato paste, oregano, and sugar. Pour in tomatoes and broth, simmer for 15–20 minutes. Blend until smooth, stir in cream, season with salt and pepper.
- Toast: Preheat broiler. Butter one side of bread slices, top with cheese and onion. Broil for 2–4 minutes until cheese melts. Serve hot with soup.
Notes
- For a vegan version, use coconut cream and plant-based cheese. Add red pepper flakes for spice. Goes well with grilled cheese or salads.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl soup + 1 toast
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
