Gourmet Grilled Cheese and Tomato Basil Soup

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, divided)
• Onion (1 medium, diced)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Fresh tomatoes (4 medium, diced)
• Vegetable broth (2 cups)
• Canned tomato soup (1 can (15 oz))
• Heavy cream (1/2 cup)
• Fresh basil (1/4 cup, chopped)
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• Sourdough or whole grain bread (4 slices)
• Cheddar cheese (8 slices)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes until softened.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and canned tomato soup. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Add the heavy cream and chopped fresh basil, stirring to combine. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Meanwhile, preheat a skillet over medium heat.
8. As the soup simmers, spread butter on one side of each slice of bread.
9. On the unbuttered side of two slices, layer 4 slices of cheddar cheese, then top with the other two slices of bread, buttered side up.
10. Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side. Repeat with the remaining slices.
11. Serve the grilled cheese sandwiches hot, alongside a warm bowl of tomato basil soup for dipping.