Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole

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The Ultimate Comfort Food Mashup Everyone’s Craving

Why This Recipe Is Breaking All the Rules

This innovative comfort food mashup has taken the culinary world by storm by brilliantly combining two childhood favorites—creamy tomato soup and crispy grilled cheese sandwiches—into one deliciously nostalgic casserole. Ranked among the top trending recipes on major cooking platforms, this dish delivers all the warm, cozy flavors you love in a fun, shareable format that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you need a dose of comfort food with a creative twist.

Ingredients

For the Grilled Cheese:

  • 12 slices white sandwich bread
  • 6 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 8 oz medium cheddar cheese, freshly grated (about 2 cups)
  • 4 oz American cheese slices (about 6 slices)

For the Tomato Soup Base:

  • 2 cans (10.75 oz each) condensed tomato soup
  • 1¼ cups whole milk
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

For the Topping:

  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Make the Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

  1. Butter one side of each bread slice.
  2. Place 6 slices, butter-side down, on your work surface.
  3. Layer evenly with cheddar and American cheese.
  4. Top with remaining bread slices, butter-side up.
  5. In a skillet over medium heat, cook sandwiches until golden brown and melty (3–4 minutes per side).
  6. Let cool slightly, then cut into 1-inch cubes.

2. Prepare the Tomato Soup Mixture

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together tomato soup, milk, and cream.
  3. Stir in basil, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, pepper, cayenne (if using), and Worcestershire.
  4. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

3. Assemble the Casserole

  1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Layer half the grilled cheese cubes evenly in the dish.
  3. Pour half the soup mixture over them.
  4. Repeat with remaining sandwich cubes and soup.
  5. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
  6. Cover with foil (avoid touching the cheese).

4. Bake to Bubbly Perfection

  1. Bake covered for 20 minutes.
  2. Remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbling.
  3. Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes for a golden top.
  4. Let rest for 5 minutes, garnish with herbs and Parmesan if desired.

Chef’s Tips

  • Bread Tips: Use sturdy white bread, or experiment with sourdough or Texas toast.
  • Cheese Options: Try fontina, Gruyère, or pepper jack for unique flavors.
  • Make Ahead: Prep grilled cheese and soup a day ahead. Assemble before baking.
  • Flavor Boosters: Add bacon, caramelized onions, or roasted red peppers.
  • Pairing Idea: Serve with a crisp green salad to balance the richness.
  • Reheating: Warm leftovers in a 325°F oven, covered, for 15–20 minutes.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

  • Servings: 8
  • Calories: ~420
  • Protein: 18g
  • Carbs: 32g
  • Fat: 26g
  • Prep Time: 25 min
  • Cook Time: 35 min
  • Total Time: 1 hour

Why Everyone’s Obsessed

This casserole solves the age-old dilemma of how to dip grilled cheese in tomato soup—by baking it all together! Each bite is a rich, melty, comforting blend of textures and flavors, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual weekend gatherings. With minimal effort and major payoff, it’s no surprise this dish has quickly become a go-to comfort food favorite.