There’s nothing quite like a bowl of creamy tomato bisque to warm you up on a chilly day. This rich, velvety soup is packed with deep tomato flavor, enhanced by aromatic garlic, onions, and herbs. Unlike traditional tomato soup, which is often thinner, a bisque is smooth and luxurious, thanks to the addition of heavy cream.

What makes this dish truly irresistible is the crispy, golden-brown grilled cheese croutons—bite-sized squares of cheesy goodness that add texture and flavor. Rather than serving a whole sandwich on the side, these grilled cheese cubes are sprinkled right on top, creating the perfect combination of crunch and melt-in-your-mouth softness.

Want to know more about the origins of bisque? You can check out its history and how it differs from traditional soups on Wikipedia (What makes a bisque different from other soups?). Similarly, grilled cheese sandwiches have been a classic American comfort food for decades—learn more about their origins.

This recipe is easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a restaurant-quality dish in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight meal or as a comforting lunch, this tomato bisque with grilled cheese croutons will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of rich, comforting soups, this creamy tomato bisque is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Here’s why it stands out from the rest:

Ultra-Creamy Texture – Unlike regular tomato soup, this bisque is silky smooth thanks to the addition of heavy cream, which gives it a luxurious consistency.
Perfect Flavor Balance – The combination of crushed tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs creates a deep, slightly tangy flavor that is mellowed out by the creaminess.
Easy & Quick to Make – This recipe takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Grilled Cheese Croutons Take It to the Next Level – Instead of serving a traditional grilled cheese sandwich on the side, these crispy, cheesy croutons add the perfect crunch and gooey texture.
Customizable – Whether you want to make it spicier, dairy-free, or vegetarian, this recipe is easy to adapt to your preferences.

Did you know that tomato soup has been a comfort food for centuries? You can read more about its evolution and popularity on Wikipedia (Learn more about traditional tomato soup). If you’re a fan of comforting dishes, check out some delicious comfort food recipes on Pinterest (More comforting dishes to try).

With its rich taste and satisfying texture, this tomato bisque with grilled cheese croutons is bound to be a hit. Now, let’s look at the key ingredients that make this recipe so flavorful!

Key Ingredients for Tomato Bisque

The secret to a flavorful tomato bisque lies in using high-quality ingredients that create a balanced taste. Here’s what you’ll need and why each ingredient is essential:

Base Ingredients for Depth of Flavor

Olive Oil – Helps sauté the aromatics, enhancing their natural sweetness.
Onion & Garlic – These two ingredients form the foundation of the bisque, adding depth and richness.
Crushed Tomatoes – Using canned crushed tomatoes ensures a consistent texture and deep, concentrated tomato flavor. If you prefer fresh tomatoes, check out this guide on tomato varieties (Different types of tomatoes for cooking).

Broth & Seasonings for Balance

Chicken Broth – Adds a savory base; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
Dried Basil & Oregano – These classic Italian herbs bring warmth and enhance the tomato flavor.
Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning and balancing acidity.

The Secret to a Creamy, Velvety Texture

Heavy Cream – The key ingredient that transforms tomato soup into a bisque, creating a smooth and rich consistency. Not a fan of dairy? Consider using coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative. For more details on heavy cream and its role in cooking, check out this Wikipedia page (Why heavy cream is essential for bisque).

Optional Additions for Extra Flavor

Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a touch of heat for those who love a spicy kick.
Parmesan Cheese – A sprinkle of parmesan can enhance the umami in the bisque.

If you’re looking for more creative soup ideas, explore Pinterest’s creamy soup tips (How to make soups extra creamy).

With these ingredients, you’ll have everything you need to make a restaurant-quality tomato bisque right at home. Now, let’s go step by step through the cooking process!

How to Make Creamy Tomato Bisque (Step-by-Step)

Making tomato bisque is surprisingly simple and requires just a few steps. Follow this detailed guide to achieve a perfectly smooth and creamy texture.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add 1 small diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened.
Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

This step is crucial because it helps build the flavor base of the soup. If you’re curious about why onions and garlic are essential in many recipes, check out this Wikipedia page on aromatics in cooking (How aromatics enhance flavor in soups).

Step 2: Simmer the Soup

Add 1 can (28 oz) of crushed tomatoes, 2 cups of chicken broth, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper to the pot.
Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Let the soup cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the flavors to meld.

During this step, the tomato acidity breaks down and the herbs infuse their flavors, resulting in a rich, well-balanced bisque. If you’re interested in the science behind tomato-based soups, check out this resource (Learn more about traditional tomato soup).

Step 3: Blending for a Velvety Texture

Remove the soup from heat and allow it to cool slightly before blending.
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth.
- If using a regular blender, blend the soup in batches. Be careful with hot liquids! Remove the center cap of the blender lid and cover with a kitchen towel to allow steam to escape.

Blending is what transforms this from a simple tomato soup into a creamy bisque. A smooth consistency enhances the texture and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you want to learn more about bisques and other blended soups, check out Wikipedia’s page on bisque (What makes a bisque different from other soups?).

Step 4: Finishing with Cream

Return the blended soup to low heat.
Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream, mixing until fully incorporated.
Simmer for 5 more minutes, then remove from heat.

Heavy cream is the secret to making this bisque ultra-rich and velvety. If you prefer a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut milk or cashew cream. You can read more about different cream types here (Why heavy cream is essential for bisque).

At this stage, your tomato bisque is ready to serve! But we’re not stopping there—let’s take it to the next level with grilled cheese croutons.

What Are Grilled Cheese Croutons?

Forget dipping a sandwich—grilled cheese croutons are the ultimate way to enjoy the classic tomato soup and grilled cheese combination in every bite! These crispy, cheesy cubes are made by preparing a traditional grilled cheese sandwich, then cutting it into bite-sized pieces.

Why Grilled Cheese Croutons Are Better Than a Sandwich on the Side

Perfect Bite-Sized Crunch – Each piece is crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, ensuring a delicious contrast in texture.
Less Mess, More Flavor – No need to worry about dunking and dripping; the croutons soak up just the right amount of bisque.
Customizable – Use different bread and cheese varieties to switch up the flavor profile.

If you love creative grilled cheese variations, explore Pinterest’s collection of grilled cheese ideas (Different ways to make grilled cheese). You can also check out the history of grilled cheese sandwiches (History of grilled cheese sandwiches) to see how this iconic comfort food has evolved.

Now, let’s dive into choosing the best bread and cheese for these irresistible croutons!

Choosing the Best Bread & Cheese for Grilled Cheese Croutons

The secret to making perfect grilled cheese croutons lies in selecting the right bread and cheese. The best choices ensure a crispy, golden exterior and a melty, flavorful interior.

Best Bread Options for Grilled Cheese Croutons

Sourdough – Crunchy crust, chewy interior, and a slightly tangy flavor. Ideal for a gourmet touch. Learn more about sourdough bread (Why sourdough bread is great for grilled cheese).
White Bread – Classic soft texture that creates a golden, crispy crust.
Whole Wheat – Nutty flavor and a heartier texture for a more wholesome option.
Brioche – Slightly sweet and buttery, perfect for a richer, more indulgent bite.

Best Cheeses for a Gooey Melt

Cheddar – Sharp, rich flavor with great meltability.
Mozzarella – Mild and extra gooey when melted.
Gruyère – Nutty, slightly sweet taste that adds a gourmet touch.
American Cheese – Ultra-creamy and classic for grilled cheese sandwiches.

For more cheese inspiration, explore Pinterest’s best cheese pairings (Best cheeses for melting in grilled cheese).

Now that you know what ingredients to use, let’s move on to the step-by-step process of making crispy grilled cheese croutons!

How to Make Crispy Grilled Cheese Croutons (Step-by-Step)

Making grilled cheese croutons is just as easy as making a classic grilled cheese sandwich, but with a twist. Follow these steps to get perfectly crispy, golden-brown croutons every time.

Step 1: Butter the Bread for a Perfectly Crisp Crust

Spread 2 tablespoons of softened butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.
For extra crispiness, try using mayonnaise instead of butter—it creates an even golden crust.

Step 2: Assemble & Cook the Sandwich

Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, on a preheated pan over medium heat.
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over both slices.
Top with the remaining two slices of bread, butter-side up.
Cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy, flipping carefully with a spatula.

Cooking at the right temperature is key—medium heat allows the cheese to melt while preventing the bread from burning. Want more grilled cheese cooking tips? Check out Pinterest’s grilled cheese hacks (Different ways to make grilled cheese).

Step 3: Cutting into Bite-Sized Croutons

Remove the grilled cheese from the pan and let it cool for 1–2 minutes. This prevents the cheese from oozing out too much when cutting.
Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the sandwich into small cubes (about 1-inch each).

For the best results, use a serrated knife to prevent squishing the bread. If you’re curious about different ways to cut and serve grilled cheese, explore Pinterest’s grilled cheese presentation ideas (Creative ways to serve grilled cheese).

Now that the grilled cheese croutons are ready, it’s time to serve them with the creamy tomato bisque!

Serving & Garnishing Ideas

Now that your creamy tomato bisque and grilled cheese croutons are ready, it’s time to bring everything together for a visually stunning and delicious presentation.

How to Serve Tomato Bisque with Grilled Cheese Croutons

Ladle the bisque into warm bowls for the best serving temperature.
Top with grilled cheese croutons, allowing them to slightly soak up the soup without losing their crunch.
Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect contrast between the creamy soup and crispy croutons.

Garnishing Ideas for Extra Flavor

Fresh Basil Leaves – Adds a pop of color and a mild, peppery taste.
Grated Parmesan Cheese – Enhances the umami flavor of the soup.
A Drizzle of Heavy Cream – Creates a beautiful swirl effect and extra richness.
Cracked Black Pepper or Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a subtle kick for those who love spice.

For more plating and presentation inspiration, check out Pinterest’s soup and sandwich pairings (Best soup and sandwich pairings).

Now that we’ve served up the perfect bowl, let’s talk about storing and reheating leftovers!

Storage & Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, don’t worry—this creamy tomato bisque stores well and reheats beautifully. Follow these best practices to maintain its flavor and texture.

How to Store Tomato Bisque

Refrigerator: Store bisque in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Grilled Cheese Croutons: Store separately in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them crispy.

Best Way to Reheat Without Curdling

Stovetop: Heat the bisque over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent the cream from separating.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warm.
Oven for Croutons: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to restore crispiness.

For more tips on keeping soups creamy, check out Pinterest’s creamy soup hacks (How to make soups extra creamy).

Now that you know how to store and reheat your bisque, let’s explore customization ideas!

Variations & Customizations

One of the best things about this creamy tomato bisque is how easily it can be customized to suit different dietary needs and flavor preferences. Here are some fun ways to change up the recipe:

Make It Spicy 🌶️

Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
Sauté a diced jalapeño with the onions for extra heat.

Dairy-Free & Vegan Option 🥥

Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream to keep it creamy.
Use vegan butter for the croutons and opt for dairy-free cheese.

Add Protein for a Hearty Meal 🍗

Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken before serving.
Blend in white beans for a plant-based protein boost.

Roasted Tomato Version 🍅

Instead of canned tomatoes, use oven-roasted fresh tomatoes for a deeper flavor.

For more creative twists, explore Pinterest’s tomato bisque recipe ideas (More creative tomato bisque recipes).

Now, let’s answer some common questions about this dish!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some of the most common questions about making creamy tomato bisque with grilled cheese croutons.

1. What is the difference between tomato soup and tomato bisque?

While both are made from tomatoes, a bisque is creamier and smoother because it contains heavy cream or another dairy-based ingredient. Traditional tomato soup is often thinner and can be made without dairy. Read more about the differences on Wikipedia (Learn more about traditional tomato soup).

2. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes! Roasting fresh tomatoes before blending them will add a richer, deeper flavor. Use 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes and roast them at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes before adding them to the soup.

3. How do I make this recipe vegan?

To make this tomato bisque vegan, swap:

Heavy cream → Full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream
Chicken broth → Vegetable broth
Grilled cheese croutons → Vegan butter and dairy-free cheese

4. How do I keep grilled cheese croutons crispy?

Serve them immediately after making.
Store extra croutons in an airtight container at room temperature.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to crisp them up again.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! The bisque can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. The grilled cheese croutons should be made fresh, but they can be toasted in the oven if prepped ahead.

For more kitchen tips and tricks, check out Pinterest’s creamy soup tips (How to make soups extra creamy).

Creamy Tomato Bisque with Grilled Cheese Croutons

Author: Christopher

Print Recipe

Description

This creamy tomato bisque is the ultimate comfort food, packed with rich, velvety texture and deep tomato flavor. Made with crushed tomatoes, aromatic garlic, onions, and a touch of heavy cream, this soup is smooth, satisfying, and perfect for any season. But what truly sets it apart? Crispy, golden-brown grilled cheese croutons! Instead of serving a classic grilled cheese sandwich on the side, these bite-sized cubes of cheesy goodness float on top, soaking up just the right amount of bisque while staying deliciously crisp.

Ready in under 30 minutes, this easy recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner, a quick lunch, or even meal prep. Whether you like your bisque spicy, dairy-free, or extra cheesy, this versatile dish can be customized to suit your taste.

Save this recipe and try it tonight! 🍅🧀🥣

Ingredients

Scale

For the Tomato Bisque:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup heavy cream

For the Grilled Cheese Croutons:

4 slices bread (sourdough or white bread)
2 tablespoons butter, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove from heat and use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer to a blender in batches and blend carefully.
Return the soup to low heat and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for 5 more minutes, then remove from heat.