Description
This comforting Tomato Soup & Grilled Cheese Casserole combines classic grilled cheese sandwiches with a savory tomato soup base, baked together into a rich, cheesy casserole perfect for a cozy meal. It’s an easy-to-make dish that transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing comfort food ideal for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
- 6 slices bread (sourdough or white)
- 4 tbsp butter
- 6 oz cream cheese (optional)
- 12 slices sharp cheddar cheese
For the Tomato Soup Mixture
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed tomato soup
- ½ cup tomato juice
- 2 large eggs
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ cup diced tomatoes (optional)
Topping
- 1 cup shredded Italian blend cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) to prepare for baking the grilled cheese sandwiches.
- Prepare Sandwiches: Butter each slice of bread generously. Assemble grilled cheese sandwiches by layering cheddar cheese slices and optional cream cheese between the bread slices.
- Bake Sandwiches: Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake for 12–14 minutes, flipping once halfway through to ensure even browning. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before cutting into 1-inch cubes.
- Reduce Oven Temperature: Lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Mix Soup Base: In a large bowl, whisk together the condensed tomato soup, tomato juice, eggs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and optional diced tomatoes until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly. Pour the tomato soup mixture evenly into the dish.
- Add Sandwich Cubes: Layer the cubed grilled cheese sandwiches over the tomato soup mixture, pressing them gently to submerge slightly in the liquid.
- Add Cheese Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the shredded Italian blend cheese evenly over the casserole. Bake in the 350°F oven for 25–30 minutes or until the topping is bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
- Use sourdough bread for a tangier flavor and better texture.
- Adding cream cheese inside the sandwiches enhances creaminess but can be omitted for a lighter version.
- Be sure to flip sandwiches during the initial bake to get an even golden crisp.
- Press the sandwich cubes gently into the soup mixture so they absorb flavor without becoming too soggy.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup mixture.
- Serve warm and enjoy with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
