Description
Comfort meets creativity in this mouthwatering tomato soup and grilled cheese casserole that combines classic flavors into one irresistible dish. Hearty layers of melted cheese, crispy bread, and rich tomato goodness promise a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 8 slices thick-cut white or sourdough bread
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cans (10.5 ounces/298 grams each) tomato soup
Dairy and Liquid Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons butter
Seasonings and Garnish:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking environment by heating the oven to 375°F and coating a 9×13-inch dish with cooking spray.
- Transform bread slices into crispy cubes by spreading butter on each side and browning them in a skillet until they reach a golden, crunchy texture.
- Create a luxurious soup base by whisking together tomato soup, milk, heavy cream, aromatic garlic powder, and fragrant Italian seasoning until smooth and well-integrated.
- Construct the casserole in strategic layers: first, distribute half the toasted bread cubes across the baking dish, followed by an even sprinkle of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
- Pour approximately half the creamy tomato soup mixture over the initial cheese and bread layer, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
- Repeat the layering process with remaining bread cubes, cheese, and soup mixture, creating a symmetrical and visually appealing composition.
- Shield the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and ingredients to heat thoroughly.
- Uncover the dish and return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, enabling the cheese to transform into a golden, bubbling crust.
- Allow the casserole to rest and slightly cool before serving, which helps stabilize the texture and intensify the flavors.
- Optional: Enhance presentation by garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a vibrant finishing touch.
Notes
- Select high-quality, ripe tomatoes for a more vibrant and rich soup base when making homemade tomato soup from scratch.
- Experiment with different bread types like sourdough or whole wheat for varied texture and nutritional profile.
- Use low-fat dairy alternatives like almond milk or Greek yogurt to create a lighter, diet-friendly version of this comforting casserole.
- Add crispy bacon bits or diced pancetta between layers for an extra savory dimension that elevates the entire dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 547
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 1280 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 19 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 41 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 21 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg