Lunch · american

Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

Canned soup plus a hot griddle is a full lunch in under 15 minutes. Campbell's condensed tomato soup is the classic and the kids will recognize it; Trader Joe's organic tomato soup is a slightly richer option if you want to upgrade without any extra work. Use pre-sliced cheddar or American cheese from the deli drawer and any sturdy sandwich bread you have on hand.

Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup
Make ahead: Soup can be made a day ahead and reheated.

How to make it

  1. Heat the soup with one soup can of milk or water over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot.

  2. Butter one side of each bread slice.

  3. Place bread butter-side down in a skillet over medium heat, lay cheese on top, and close with second slice butter-side up.

  4. Cook 3 minutes per side until golden and cheese is melted.

  5. Cut sandwiches in half and serve with bowls of soup for dipping.

For a protein bump, tuck a slice of deli ham inside the sandwich before grilling. Sourdough or Texas toast hold up better than thin white bread if you want a crunchier result. Jarred marinara also works as the dip if you're out of canned soup and it gives the meal a slightly more grown-up flavor.

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Times are approximate. Adjust to your stove and your kids.