Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I pulled the casserole from the oven, the rich, savory aroma enveloped my kitchen, instantly transporting me to cozy family dinners of my childhood. Today, I’m excited to share my ultimate comfort food: Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole. This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining friends—effortlessly blending the classic flavors we all adore into one easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing meal. Not only is it customizable, allowing you to swap in your favorite cheeses and bread types, but it’s also a guaranteed hit at any dinner table. So, are you ready to create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds? Let’s dive in! Why is this casserole a must-try? Comforting and inviting, this Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole is the epitome of a cozy meal. Customizable with various cheeses and breads, you can easily tailor it to suit your family’s preferences. Time-saving and hassle-free, it’s perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor. Crowd-pleasing, it brings nostalgia to the table, making it an ideal choice for gatherings. Plus, it’s a delightful way to sneak in fresh herbs or veggies! Whether you pair it with a fresh salad or bake it in adorable ramekins for presentation, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole Ingredients For the Casserole Bread – Provides structure and crunch; substitute with sourdough or brioche for added flavor. Cheese – Offers creaminess and depth; try sharp Cheddar, mild mozzarella, or an Italian blend for a unique twist. Butter – Enhances the toastiness of the bread; olive oil is a lighter substitute you can consider. Tomato Soup – Forms the flavorful base; opting for homemade or canned is great, and spiced varieties add a delightful kick. Fresh Herbs/Spices – Add aroma and depth; personal flair can be introduced with basil or chili flakes. Optional Add-Ins Cooked Bacon or Sausage – Elevate heartiness and flavor; a perfect addition for meat lovers. Sautéed Vegetables – Enhance nutrition and taste; consider mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers. This hearty Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole is not only a delicious comfort food but also a versatile dish ready to impress at your dinner table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, take your bread and cut it into bite-sized cubes. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter until it’s bubbly. Add the bread cubes and toast them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are golden brown and fragrant. Step 2: Combine the Soup Base In a large mixing bowl, pour in the tomato soup. Enhance the flavor profile by adding your choice of spices and fresh herbs—think basil or even a pinch of chili flakes! Stir well to combine, ensuring that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the tomato soup for a balanced flavor in your Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole. Step 3: Create the Layering Grab your greased baking dish and start layering! First, evenly distribute the toasted bread cubes at the bottom. Next, pour the seasoned tomato soup mixture over the bread, ensuring each piece is coated. This layering is crucial to achieve that delectable blend of flavors and textures as the casserole bakes. Step 4: Add the Cheese Topping Now it’s time to bring the cheesy goodness to your casserole! Sprinkle your choice of cheese generously over the top of the layered bread and soup mixture. For an extra rich flavor, consider a mix of sharp Cheddar and mozzarella. This will melt beautifully and create that irresistible, bubbly topping we all love. Step 5: Bake to Perfection Place your prepared casserole in the preheated oven and let it bake uncovered for 30-45 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is beautifully melted and golden brown, and the edges begin to bubble. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait! Step 6: Cool and Serve Once out of the oven, allow your Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole to cool for about 5-10 minutes. This settling time helps with serving and enhances the flavors. Scoop out portions and enjoy warm, perhaps alongside a fresh salad or a side of roasted veggies for a complete meal. Expert Tips for Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole Choose Quality Bread: Opt for crusty, artisan bread like sourdough for enhanced texture. Avoid pre-sliced bread as it may become soggy. Don’t Over-Toast: While toasting your bread, stop as soon as it’s golden. Over-toasting can make it too hard to absorb the soup’s flavors. Mix Cheeses Wisely: Combine different cheeses for a complex flavor; using both mozzarella for stretch and sharp Cheddar for bite ensures a delicious balance in your casserole. Avoid Excess Liquid: To prevent a soggy casserole, measure the tomato soup carefully and avoid adding extra liquids. Remember, the bread will absorb some moisture! Add Flavorful Mix-ins: Consider incorporating sautéed onions or garlic into your soup base for an extra layer of flavor in your Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole. Reheat for Best Results: If you make this dish ahead, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave to maintain its deliciously crispy top. What to Serve with Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole Nothing completes a cozy meal like delightful accompaniments that enhance the comforting flavors of your casserole. Fresh Green Salad: A crisp mix of greens with a zesty vinaigrette brightens the richness of the casserole, making each bite feel lighter and refreshing. Garlic Breadsticks: These buttery, garlicky delights add a satisfying crunch and complement the creamy soup flavors beautifully. Everyone loves the extra dip in soup! Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring vibrant colors and subtle sweetness, rounding out the meal while also adding a healthy touch. Classic Pickles: The tangy crunch of dill pickles contrasts perfectly with the creamy casserole, offering a refreshing burst of flavor after each bite. Cheesy Croutons: Toss some cubed bread with cheese, garlic, and herbs for a crunchy topping that enhances texture and flavor. A great way to elevate your dish! Warm Biscuits: Soft, flaky biscuits are perfect for soaking up leftovers of the tomato soup. Add a drizzle of honey on top for a delicious twist! Iced Tea or Lemonade: Cool, refreshing drinks like iced tea or lemonade cleanse the palate, providing a bright counterpoint to the hearty casserole. Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, classic chocolate chip cookies deliver a sweet finish that feels like a warm hug, perfectly capping off a cozy meal. Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole Variations Feel free to explore creative twists and adaptations to make this dish uniquely yours! Cheese Variety: Swap in different cheeses like Gruyère or fontina for a richer, more luxurious flavor experience. Bread Choices: Use artisanal options like rye or ciabatta for a delightful texture transformation that surprises the palate. Add Bacon: Incorporate crispy, cooked bacon or sausage to elevate the heartiness and introduce a smoky flavor. For a medley of flavors, consider sautéing some mushrooms or spinach to add more layers of taste and nutrition. This way, you blend comforting warmth with a boost of freshness. Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or use a spicy tomato soup to bring some heat to your casserole, perfect for those who crave a bit of zest! Vegetarian Boost: Include diced bell peppers or zucchini for a colorful upgrade that packs in nutrients without compromising on flavor. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not experiment with flavors from different cuisines? Try adding pesto for an Italian flair or toppings like feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist. By the way, serving it alongside a fresh green salad or your favorite roasted vegetables balances the richness beautifully! For even more cheesy goodness, you might enjoy Sausage Egg Cheese or Chicken Mac Cheese as delicious alternatives. Enjoy your culinary adventure! Make Ahead Options These Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole options are ideal for busy weeknights! You can prepare the casserole components—toast the bread and mix the tomato soup base—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the toasted bread in an airtight container to keep it crispy, and refrigerate the soup mixture. When you’re ready to enjoy, layer the toasted bread and soup in the baking dish, top with your choice of cheese, and then bake it straight from the fridge for 30-45 minutes until bubbly and golden. This method not only saves time but ensures that your casserole remains just as delicious, providing a comforting meal with minimal effort. How to Store and Freeze Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, preserving that crispy cheese topping. Freezer: If freezing, wrap the cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating Tips: For the best texture, reheat in the oven instead of the microwave. Cover with foil for the first 15 minutes to prevent drying out, then uncover to crisp the top. Serving Suggestion: When ready to enjoy, serve warm and consider garnishing with fresh herbs to revive the flavors of your Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole. Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole Recipe FAQs What type of bread works best for this casserole? Absolutely go for a sturdy bread! I recommend using sourdough or brioche; both add a lovely flavor and texture. Avoid commercial pre-sliced bread, as it may become too soggy. If you enjoy a little extra crunch, toasting the bread until golden before layering is also a great idea. How can I store leftovers? Very easy! Just transfer any leftover Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, pop it back in the oven at 350°F until heated through to keep that deliciously melty cheese topping. Can I freeze this casserole for later? Certainly! To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This way, it stays fresh for up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven to restore its crispy top. What can I do to avoid a soggy casserole? Excellent question! To prevent sogginess, lightly toast your bread cubes before layering them. Also, be mindful not to add extra liquid from the tomato soup. If using homemade soup, aim for a slightly thicker consistency that can hold up to the bread. Are there any allergy considerations I should keep in mind? Yes, definitely! This casserole contains dairy due to cheese and butter. If anyone has lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, feel free to substitute with dairy-free cheese and use olive oil instead of butter. These alternatives will still yield a satisfying dish everyone can enjoy. How can I make this casserole more nutritious? The more the merrier! You can sneak in some healthy mix-ins. Consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the tomato soup mixture before layering. They boost nutrition while enhancing flavor, making your Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole even more delightful! Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole A cozy weeknight delight that combines the flavors of Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese into an easy casserole everyone will love. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 45 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Casserole6 slices Bread Sourdough or brioche for added flavor2 cups Cheese Sharp Cheddar and mozzarella recommended2 tablespoons Butter Olive oil can be used as a substitute1 can Tomato Soup Homemade or canned, choose your preference2 tablespoons Fresh Herbs/Spices Basil or chili flakes for added flavorOptional Add-Ins1 cup Cooked Bacon or Sausage Perfect for meat lovers1 cup Sautéed Vegetables Mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers suggested Equipment OvenSkilletMixing bowlBaking dish Method Preparation StepsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cut the bread into bite-sized cubes.Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat and toast the bread cubes for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.In a mixing bowl, combine the tomato soup with spices and herbs, stirring well.Layer the toasted bread cubes in a greased baking dish, followed by the seasoned tomato soup mixture.Sprinkle cheese generously over the top before placing it in the oven.Bake uncovered for 30-45 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.Allow to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving warm. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg NotesServe with a fresh salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal. This casserole is customizable with different cheeses and breads to suit your preferences. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
