Save It This Tomato Soup Orzo with Grilled Cheese Croutons offers a playful twist on nostalgic comfort food. The classic creamy tomato soup welcomes silky orzo pasta, while buttery grilled cheese croutons bring perfect crunch to every spoonful. It is ideal for family dinners or whenever you crave something heartwarming and satisfying.
When I first made this, my sister’s skeptical look turned into pure delight after her first spoonful. Now, it is the number one request for our rainy day lunches at home.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: provides a rich foundation that helps onions cook gently and enhances flavor. Choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil if possible.
- Yellow onion: adds sweetness and depth. Look for firm onions free of soft spots.
- Garlic: infuses savory warmth with every bite. Choose plump, heavy cloves for best flavor.
- Crushed tomatoes: create the soup’s body and tang. Go for canned tomatoes with just tomatoes and salt listed in the ingredients.
- Vegetable broth: lends complexity. Use a lower sodium variety so you can control saltiness.
- Dried basil and oregano: provide classic Italian aroma. Rub herbs between your fingers before adding to awaken their oils.
- Red pepper flakes: are optional but add a gentle kick. Use as much or as little as you like.
- Sugar: balances tomato acidity. Even a small pinch makes a big difference.
- Salt and black pepper: fine-tune all the flavors. Fresh cracked black pepper gives a brighter taste.
- Orzo pasta: adds a cozy texture and makes the soup substantial. Pick orzo with a smooth surface and even size.
- Heavy cream or whole milk: is optional for creamy richness. Use fresh and cold dairy for best results.
- Fresh basil: for garnish adds color and fresh aroma right at the end.
- Sourdough or country bread: delivers a golden, crunchy base for the croutons. Look for bread with a sturdy crumb.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: gives deep cheesy flavor. Pre-sliced or hand-shredded melts best.
- Unsalted butter: provides the signature toastiness for the croutons. Soften to room temperature for easy spreading.
Instructions
- Heat the Aromatics:
- In a large pot, pour in olive oil and add chopped onions. Cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions look translucent but not browned. This step lays a sweet and savory flavor base for your soup.
- Add Garlic:
- Once the onions are soft, scatter minced garlic into the pot. Stir and cook for just 1 minute, allowing the garlic’s aroma to release without burning.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, sugar, salt, and pepper. Let the whole mixture come up to a simmer. Keep it uncovered. Allow it to bubble gently for 15 minutes, which thickens the soup and melds the flavors.
- Puree until Smooth:
- Turn off the heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth. For extra silky texture, blend in small batches using a countertop blender, but be careful with hot liquids.
- Cook the Orzo:
- Return the blended soup to a gentle simmer. Pour in the orzo and stir well so the pasta does not stick. Continue stirring every couple of minutes and cook for about 8 minutes, or until the orzo is plump and tender.
- Add the Creaminess:
- If you want a creamy soup, swirl in heavy cream or milk now. Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed.
- Prepare Grilled Cheese Croutons:
- While the soup simmers, lay out your bread slices and generously spread softened butter on one side of each slice. Place sharp cheddar cheese between two slices, with buttered sides facing out. Heat a skillet on medium. Cook the sandwich for about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown and the cheese is thoroughly melted. Let cool for a couple of minutes, then cut the sandwich into bite-sized cubes for croutons.
- Serve it Up:
- Ladle the steaming soup into bowls. Top each with a handful of warm grilled cheese croutons and sprinkle with chopped fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor.
Save It I always look forward to using sharp cheddar for the croutons because it creates those gooey, crispy bits my family digs through the bowl to find. The moment we started adding fresh basil on top, even picky eaters started polishing off their bowls.
Storage Tips
Cool soup completely before transferring to containers. It will keep in the fridge for three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if the orzo absorbs extra liquid. The grilled cheese croutons are best toasted fresh, but you can keep them in an airtight container for up to one day and quickly re-toast in a hot skillet to revive the crunch.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap sourdough for any rustic or gluten-free bread if needed. If you want a mellower cheese, mozzarella or gruyère brings a unique cheesy profile to the croutons. Use plant-based cheese and milk to make the entire recipe vegan.
Serving Suggestions
Pair bowls of this soup with a crisp green salad for a light meal. A glass of iced tea or a light red wine makes this a cozy lunch or dinner. For an extra treat, add a drizzle of chili oil or a scoop of pesto before serving.
Cultural Context
Tomato soup and grilled cheese are an iconic American comfort food pairing that date to the early twentieth century. This inventive version honors that tradition but upgrades the meal with orzo pasta and fun croutons you can dip and crunch.
Seasonal Adaptations
In summer, try making this soup with ripe, garden tomatoes in place of canned for an even fresher taste. Add a handful of baby spinach just before serving for a nutritious twist, or swap the orzo for tiny pasta shapes you have on hand.
Save It This recipe delivers everything: warmth, coziness, and a playful twist on a nostalgic pairing. Try it once, and it could become your family’s next rainy day favorite.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use different cheese for the croutons?
Yes, mozzarella or gruyère are great alternatives for flavorful grilled cheese croutons.
- → Is orzo pasta gluten-free?
Traditional orzo is made from wheat, but gluten-free versions are available for substitution.
- → How do I make this dish vegan?
Swap butter, cheese, and cream for plant-based alternatives to easily create a vegan-friendly version.
- → Can I blend the soup for a smoother texture?
Yes, an immersion blender or regular blender will help create a silky smooth tomato base for the soup.
- → What drinks pair well with this dish?
A light Pinot Noir or a crisp iced tea complement the flavors and balance the meal perfectly.