Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole Recipe

If you love the cozy duo of tomato soup and grilled cheese but wish it could be even more comforting, this Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole is about to become your new obsession. It transforms two childhood classics into a bubbling, cheesy, golden-topped bake that’s guaranteed to warm even the chilliest of days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Classic pantry staples and a few touches of comfort magic are all it takes for this show-stopping Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole. Each ingredient plays a role—whether it’s adding richness, creaminess, or that irresistible, gooey-cheesy bite.

• Sourdough bread: Sturdy and tangy, it holds up perfectly to the tomato soup and soaks up all the flavor without getting soggy.
• Butter: For golden, crisp sandwich edges and rich, toasty flavor.
• Cream cheese: Adds creaminess and a little tang, making each bite feel extra-luxurious.
• Cheddar cheese: Salty, melty, and classic—use pre-sliced for easy layering.
• Condensed tomato soup: The signature taste of home, delivering bold tomato flavor and nostalgia.
• Tomato juice: Enhances the soup’s consistency and gives an extra zingy tomato punch.
• Eggs: Help the casserole set up with a dreamy, custard-like texture.
• Italian seasoning & garlic powder: Bring herbal warmth and a gentle savory note to round everything out.
• Roma tomato: Fresh tomato cubes for sweet, juicy bursts in every bite.
• Shredded cheese (Italian blend or more cheddar): A final melty layer that browns gorgeously on top.

Variations

There’s so much room to make this Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole your own and riff on what you love or have on hand. Don’t be afraid to play with flavors and textures to suit your mood, dietary needs, or seasonal inspiration!

• Add Bacon or Ham: Layer cooked bacon or deli ham with the cheese for a savory, smoky twist.
• Go Vegetarian Deluxe: Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers add color and boost the veggie factor.
• Try a Different Cheese: Swap the cheddar for Gruyère, pepper jack, or mozzarella for a fun little flavor journey.
• Gluten-Free: Use your favorite sturdy gluten-free bread for a comforting casserole everyone can enjoy.

How to Make Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole

Step 1: Toast the Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Start by buttering one side of six sourdough slices, then lay them butter-side down on a baking sheet. Spread cream cheese onto the unbuttered sides, add two slices of cheddar on each, and top with the remaining bread slices. Butter the tops—now you have a tray of stacked, soon-to-be toasty sandwiches!

Step 2: Bake and Cool the Sandwiches

Bake the assembled sandwiches for 12 to 14 minutes, flipping once halfway so both sides get evenly golden. The cheese inside will be perfectly melted. Once done, set aside and let them cool for at least 15 minutes—it helps the sandwiches keep their shape when you slice them, so don’t skip this!

Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Soup Mixture

Lower the oven temp to 350°F (175°C). While the sandwiches cool, whisk together the condensed tomato soup, tomato juice, eggs, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder in a large bowl. Stir in the chopped Roma tomato for a bump of freshness in each bite.

Step 4: Cube and Layer the Sandwiches

Once cool, cut the grilled cheese sandwiches into 1-inch cubes. Pour the tomato soup mixture into your prepared baking dish, then arrange sandwich cubes evenly over the top, pressing gently so they soak up some of that luscious tomato base.

Step 5: Top and Bake the Casserole

Sprinkle your shredded Italian blend or cheddar cheese generously over everything. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbling, hot, and gorgeously golden brown on top. Let it sit a few minutes before serving—this helps the casserole hold together and makes those cheesy strings even dreamier!

How to Serve Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a pop of bright green and a hint of herbal freshness that beautifully complements the cheesy, tomatoey comfort underneath. For a little zing, a swirl of sour cream or a few grinds of black pepper make each serving look and taste even more special.

Side Dishes

This casserole stands proudly on its own, but if you want to round things out, pair it with a crisp green salad tossed in lemony vinaigrette or a simple apple-fennel slaw for crunch. A handful of kettle-cooked chips or sweet potato fries are perfect if you’re craving that diner vibe at home.

Creative Ways to Present

For cozy dinners, serve big spoonfuls straight from the bubbling baking dish, family-style. Or, for a party, assemble and bake in individual ramekins—mini casseroles are swoon-worthy and feel extra-festive. Add little flags or toothpicks for a playful touch, or top with extra melted cheese for sensational cheese pulls!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole cool to room temperature before covering and refrigerating. Tightly wrapped, it keeps well for up to 3 days—meaning cozy lunches or midnight snacks are always just a warm-up away.

Freezing

This casserole is surprisingly freezer-friendly. Cut cooled portions, wrap individually, and freeze for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight or reheat gently from frozen for a surefire comfort fix.

Reheating

Reheat single servings on a microwave-safe plate until piping hot, or cover your casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until bubbly. Add a little extra shredded cheese on top before reheating for bonus melty magic!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for the ultimate in comfort food, Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole delivers big, cozy flavor with every cheesy, tomatoey bite. I can’t wait for you to dig in—invite friends, share with family, or just treat yourself to some extra-warm happiness. Enjoy!

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