Creamy Tomato Bisque with Grilled Cheese Croutons
This comforting soup is rich, velvety, and full of roasted tomato flavor, finished with cream for silkiness. Crunchy, buttery grilled cheese croutons float on top, adding a nostalgic, indulgent touch. Perfect for cozy lunches or dinner starters.
Time
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: ~40 minutes
Ingredients
For the bisque
1 kg ripe tomatoes, quartered
1 small onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cups vegetable or chicken stock
½ cup cream or whole milk
1 tsp sugar (optional, balances acidity)
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp dried basil or oregano
For grilled cheese croutons
4 slices bread (sourdough or white bread)
2–3 tbsp butter
½ cup cheddar or mozzarella cheese, grated
Optional garnish
Fresh basil
Drizzle of cream
Instructions
1. Roast tomatoes
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Toss tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20–25 minutes until soft and slightly caramelized.
2. Cook aromatics
In a pot, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté onion and garlic for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
3. Blend soup
Add roasted tomatoes and stock to the pot. Simmer 10 minutes. Blend with an immersion blender until smooth (or transfer in batches to a blender).
4. Finish bisque
Stir in cream, sugar, and dried herbs. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Simmer 2–3 minutes more.
5. Make grilled cheese croutons
Butter bread slices and place cheese between two slices. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until golden and melty. Cut into small cubes or triangles.
6. Serve
Pour bisque into bowls, top with grilled cheese croutons, drizzle with cream, and garnish with basil.
Tips for Best Results
Use ripe, flavorful tomatoes for deep taste
Roast tomatoes to enhance sweetness
Croutons are best served fresh to maintain crunch
For vegan version, use plant-based milk and cheese
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make the bisque ahead?
Yes—store in the fridge up to 2 days; reheat gently. Add croutons just before serving.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, without cream. Add cream when reheating.
Can I use canned tomatoes?
Yes—substitute with 2 cans (400 g each) of whole peeled tomatoes, drained.
Can I add more flavor?
Yes—roast garlic along with tomatoes, or add a splash of balsamic vinegar.
Variations
Spicy version: Add pinch of chili flakes
Herby version: Stir in fresh thyme or oregano
Creamy coconut bisque: Use coconut cream instead of dairy
Nutritional Information
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 10 g
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fiber: 4 g