Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole

This Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole combines two nostalgic favorites into one hearty, oven-baked dish. The golden, melty grilled cheese cubes bake right into a flavorful, creamy tomato soup base, making it an easy and delicious meal for family dinners or potlucks. This recipe delivers the same cozy flavors of Campbell’s tomato soup with grilled cheese but in an innovative, shareable form.

Essential Ingredients

To create this comforting casserole, you’ll need:

• 12 (½-inch thick) slices sourdough bread
• ¼ cup butter, softened, divided
• 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 12 slices pre-sliced Cheddar cheese
• 2 (10.5-ounce) cans condensed tomato soup (such as Campbell’s)
• 1 cup tomato juice
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 Roma tomato, seeded and chopped into ½-inch pieces
• 1 cup shredded Italian blend or Cheddar cheese

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 450°F (230°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Grilled Cheese:
   • Spread butter on one side of 6 slices of bread.
   • Place buttered side down on a baking sheet.
   • Spread cream cheese over each slice and top with 2 slices of Cheddar cheese.
   • Place the remaining bread slices on top and butter the exposed sides.
   • Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, flipping once, until the sandwiches are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
3. Cool and Cut: Let sandwiches cool for at least 15 minutes before cutting them into 1-inch cubes. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
4. Make the Soup Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together tomato soup, tomato juice, eggs, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Stir in chopped Roma tomato.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Pour the soup mixture into the prepared baking dish.
   • Evenly distribute the grilled cheese cubes over the soup mixture, pressing them slightly to submerge.
   • Sprinkle with shredded Italian blend or Cheddar cheese.
6. Bake: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and the casserole is golden brown.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Let cool slightly before serving for best texture.

Health Benefits

• Rich in Lycopene: Tomatoes are packed with antioxidants that support heart health.
• Calcium-Rich: Cheese provides a good source of calcium for strong bones.
• Protein-Packed: Eggs and cheese contribute protein for sustained energy.
• Comfort Food with a Twist: This dish satisfies cravings in a more filling and shareable format.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a Green Salad: A fresh arugula or spinach salad balances the richness of the casserole.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add basil or parsley for extra freshness.
• Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze: For a gourmet touch, add a balsamic reduction before serving.

Creative Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup mixture.
• Meaty Version: Stir in crumbled bacon or diced ham for a protein boost.
• Gluten-Free Alternative: Use gluten-free bread and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
• Cheese Lover’s Upgrade: Swap in Gouda, Swiss, or Pepper Jack for a more complex flavor profile.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or in the microwave.
• Freeze: This casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Pro Tips

• Let the Sandwiches Cool Before Cutting: This helps keep the grilled cheese cubes intact.
• Use High-Quality Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged shredded cheese.
• Adjust Bread Crispiness: For crunchier cubes, toast the sandwiches for an extra minute before cutting.
• Customize the Texture: Pressing the grilled cheese cubes more into the soup mixture will create a softer texture, while leaving them mostly on top will keep them crispier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of condensed soup?
Yes! Blend fresh tomatoes with vegetable broth and a splash of cream for a homemade alternative.

What can I use instead of sourdough bread?
Any sturdy bread like ciabatta, French bread, or whole wheat works well.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding 5 extra minutes to the cook time.

Enjoy this Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole, a nostalgic dish that delivers cozy flavors in a fun and creative way!

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