Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole: A Comforting Classic
A delightful embrace of childhood nostalgia awaits with every glorious spoonful of Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole. This dish offers the warmth of homestyle cooking, intertwining rich, creamy tomato soup with the gooeyness of perfectly melted cheese sandwiched between buttery, crispy bread. Every bite is a whirlwind of flavors and textures reminiscent of cozy family dinners and snow-day indulgences. With its quick prep time and minimal ingredients, this comfort food is not only speedy to whip up but also a guaranteed kid-friendly hit. You’ll find yourself smiling with every taste, drawn into the delicious memories that this dish brings to mind.
Have You Ever Dreamed of the Perfect Comfort Food?
When was the last time you savored a dish so decadent and soothing that it transported you back to happier, simpler times? Imagine a rainy afternoon, where the air is filled with the heady aroma of tomato soup simmering away, mingling with the sizzling sound of grilled cheese bubbling in the oven. Can you feel that warm, gooey goodness coursing through the seams of your heart?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of comfort. Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe:
Easy Prep: This casserole is quick to assemble, cutting down on kitchen time without sacrificing flavor.
Healthy-ish Comfort: While indulgent, it offers tomato goodness in every serving, providing a hint of health amidst comfort.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether serving at a birthday party or a chilly weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to elicit smiles from everyone at the table.
Minimal Ingredients: With just a handful of staples, you can create a masterpiece that feels luxurious yet accessible.
Ingredients
To craft this nostalgic delight, you’ll need the following appetizing ingredients:
12 (½-inch thick) slices sourdough bread: For that perfect crusty exterior and soft interior.
1/4 cup butter, softened, divided: Adds richness and allows for crispy, golden-brown slices.
3 ounces cream cheese, softened: This provides a creamy, tangy base that elevates the dish to new heights.
12 slices pre-sliced Cheddar cheese: Because what’s a grilled cheese casserole without oozing melted cheese?
2 (10.5 ounce) cans condensed tomato soup: The heart of the dish, offering comforting, tomato-filled goodness.
1 cup tomato juice: Enhances the soup base, adding depth and flavor.
2 large eggs: Acts as a binding agent, ensuring a satisfying texture in every part of the casserole.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings warmth and aromatic depth, making each bite incredibly flavorful.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A sprinkle to elevate the savory notes of the dish.
1 Roma tomato, chopped: For an added burst of freshness and texture.
1 cup shredded Italian blend or Cheddar cheese: For that luscious, cheesy crown that pulls everything together beautifully.
Timing
This dish can be your go-to for a fast and indulgent meal or a slow and luxurious comfort food experience. If you’re in a rush, you can have it ready in about 45 minutes, each layer of flavor melding beautifully into a casserole that’s simply divine. Or take your time and immerse yourself in the process, letting the smells waft through your home, building anticipation.
Step-by-Step Directions
Prepare yourself for a symphony of flavors and textures as you create this exquisite casserole:
Preheat oven to 450°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure every bit of cheesy goodness comes out beautifully.
Butter 6 slices of bread generously and arrange them butter-side-down on a baking sheet, envisioning that golden crust as it bakes.
Spread cream cheese over each slice, inviting a tangy creaminess that will perfectly complement the cheddar.
Top with 2 slices of cheddar, ensuring that every hearty bite will yield forkfuls of melted bliss.
Cover with the remaining bread slices, ensuring each sandwich is sealed with love, and butter the tops extravagantly.
Bake for 12–14 minutes, flipping once, until golden brown, and allow them to cool for 15 minutes, embracing that aroma of heavenly toasting.
Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F. In a bowl, whisk together the condensed soup, tomato juice, eggs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and chopped tomatoes, producing a rich amalgamation of luscious flavors.
Cut cooled sandwiches into 1-inch cubes, feeling like a culinary artist assembling these delightful morsels.
Pour the soup mixture into your prepared baking dish, lovingly layering the sandwich cubes on top, pressing lightly to submerge them slightly.
Sprinkle with shredded cheese, allowing it to cascade over the top like a warm blanket, and bake for 25–30 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbling.
Allow it to cool briefly before diving in to prevent scalding excitement—it will be worth the wait!
Nutritional Information
Each generous serving of this Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole will greet you with approximately 450 calories. While it’s indulgent, the joy it brings is worth every calorie.
Healthier Alternatives
Are you on a quest for lighter options? Consider swapping some ingredients with these alternatives:
Low-sugar tomato soup: Select varieties with less sugar for a healthier twist without skimping on taste.
Dairy-free cream cheese: Options are available that offer the same creaminess without dairy for a lighter dish.
Whole grain or gluten-free bread: Substituting with whole grain or gluten-free alternatives can add nutritional benefits.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect for any occasion! Pair it with a fresh salad or some crispy vegetables for a wholesome meal. Want to indulge further? Serve it alongside homemade ice cream for dessert—what an ultimate comfort-food evening!
Common Mistakes
Avoid these pitfalls for a perfect casserole:
Overbaking: Keep an eye on your casserole. Removing it when it’s golden and bubbly will yield the best texture.
Texture issues: If your sandwiches are soggy, ensure that you cut them into cubes after they’ve cooled for perfect crispiness.
Messes: Use a deep baking dish to prevent spills when baking, preserving the aesthetics of your casserole.
Storing Tips
Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep them fresh:
Freezing portions: Cut into portions and store in airtight containers for up to three months.
Reheating instructions: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F until warmed through.
Tempting You to Bake It ASAP
The allure of Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole is undeniably strong. It’s not merely a meal; it’s a delightful journey through memories, flavors, and textures—one that you can replicate quickly and effortlessly.
So gather ingredients today and make this heartfelt dish! The smiles and joy it brings are too good to resist, calling out for you to indulge.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prep the casserole and store it covered in the fridge. When ready, pop it in the oven straight from the fridge!Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to explore different cheese combinations for fantastic flavor variations.Is this dish freezing friendly?
Yes! It freezes well, allowing you to enjoy leftover bliss later.How do I know when it’s done?
Look for a bubbly, golden top and the delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen!Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can all add extra nutrition and flavor.
Create unforgettable moments with this comfort food classic—happy cooking!
Print
Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful embrace of childhood nostalgia with rich creamy tomato soup and gooey melted cheese between crispy bread layers.
Ingredients
- 12 (½-inch thick) slices sourdough bread
- 1/4 cup butter, softened, divided
- 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 12 slices pre-sliced Cheddar cheese
- 2 (10.5 ounce) cans condensed tomato soup
- 1 cup tomato juice
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 Roma tomato, chopped
- 1 cup shredded Italian blend or Cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Butter 6 slices of bread and arrange them butter-side-down on a baking sheet.
- Spread cream cheese over each slice and top with 2 slices of cheddar.
- Cover with the remaining bread slices and butter the tops.
- Bake for 12–14 minutes, flipping once, until golden brown, and let cool for 15 minutes.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F. In a bowl, whisk together the condensed soup, tomato juice, eggs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and chopped tomatoes.
- Cut cooled sandwiches into 1-inch cubes.
- Pour the soup mixture into the prepared baking dish and layer the sandwich cubes on top.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheese and bake for 25–30 minutes, until hot and bubbling.
- Allow to cool briefly before serving.
Notes
Pairs well with a fresh salad or crispy vegetables. You can also serve it with homemade ice cream for dessert.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
