If you’re anything like me, you know there’s something so deeply comforting about the classic combo of tomato soup and grilled cheese. Now, imagine those nostalgic flavors baked together in one irresistible dish! This Tomato Soup & Grilled Cheese Casserole Recipe is the perfect way to cozy up on a chilly day or impress guests with an easy, crowd-pleasing meal that feels like a warm hug. With bubbly melted cheese, rich tomato flavors, and golden crunchy bread cubes all baked into one pan, this casserole transforms a beloved lunch into something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Tomato Soup & Grilled Cheese Casserole Recipe are straightforward but essential for creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From creamy cheeses to zesty seasonings, each element plays its role in making this dish sing. Let’s dive into the pantry staples and fresh touches that bring this casserole to life:
- 6 slices of bread (sourdough or white): The sturdy base holding all the melty cheese and soaking up the tomato goodness perfectly.
- 4 tbsp butter: Adds richness and golden crispiness to those grilled cheese sandwiches.
- 6 oz cream cheese (optional): For an extra creamy layer that melts beautifully and contrasts with sharp cheddar.
- 12 slices sharp cheddar cheese: The star of the grilled cheese part, bringing sharp, gooey flavor.
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed tomato soup: The foundational tomato flavor that’s comforting and familiar.
- ½ cup tomato juice: Lightens and enriches the soup mixture for a balanced consistency.
- 2 large eggs: Helps bind the casserole, giving it a custardy texture.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Adds a savory note that bumps up the flavor without overpowering.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Brings warmth and aromatic herbs for that homemade feel.
- ½ cup diced tomatoes (optional): For bursts of fresh tomato texture and brightness.
- 1 cup shredded Italian blend cheese: A melty, flavorful topping that finishes the dish with golden perfection.
How to Make Tomato Soup & Grilled Cheese Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 450°F (230°C). This high heat is crucial for creating those perfectly toasted grilled cheese sandwiches that will form the crispy, delicious texture base of the casserole.
Step 2: Butter and Assemble Sandwiches
Butter each bread slice evenly — this is where a generous coating will make the crust crispy and golden. Then, layer sharp cheddar slices, and if you’re feeling indulgent, spread cream cheese for extra creaminess before topping with the second bread slice.
Step 3: Bake and Cube the Grilled Cheese
Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake for 12 to 14 minutes, flipping halfway through, until each side is perfectly golden and melty. Let them cool slightly, then cut the sandwiches into 1-inch cubes. These little bites will soak up the tomato soup in the casserole while keeping some crisp edges for texture.
Step 4: Lower Oven Temperature
Reduce your oven heat to 350°F (175°C) — this gentler temperature will allow the casserole to bake evenly without drying out, creating a luscious, bubbling finish.
Step 5: Whisk the Tomato Soup Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the condensed tomato soup, tomato juice, eggs, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until smooth. This mixture will bind and flavor the casserole, infusing every bite with rich tomato essence and herbaceous warmth.
Step 6: Pour Soup Mixture into Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then pour in your soup mixture. This smooth, velvety layer becomes the flavorful base that the grilled cheese cubes will nestle into.
Step 7: Layer the Sandwich Cubes
Scatter the cubed grilled cheese evenly over the soup mixture, gently pressing down slightly so they soak up some of the liquid but retain their structure. This step is where the magic begins, blending crispy, cheesy bread with creamy tomato.
Step 8: Add Cheese Topping and Bake
Sprinkle the shredded Italian blend cheese generously over the top for a melty, golden crust. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese is beautifully browned. This step finishes your comforting masterpiece with a gorgeous cheesy crown.
How to Serve Tomato Soup & Grilled Cheese Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add a lively pop of color and freshness to contrast the rich casserole. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can also elevate the flavor beautifully without complicating the dish.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a meal on its own, but a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted veggies makes a refreshing companion. For heartier occasions, pair it with creamy mashed potatoes or sautéed green beans to round out the plate perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in small ramekins for a charming presentation or layer the casserole in a deep-dish pie pan for a rustic, homestyle look. Adding a side bowl of extra tomato soup for dipping can bring the comforting concept full circle and delight your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any uneaten casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld more over time, making it even better the next day, although the bread might soften slightly.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly with foil or plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to preserve the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15 to 20 minutes. To revive some crispiness in the bread cubes, uncover for the last 5 minutes. Microwave works too for a quick fix but may soften the texture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and Italian blend cheeses are classic here, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack to suit your taste preferences and add different flavor profiles.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
This casserole is vegetarian as is, but for a vegan version, you’d need to substitute the cheeses with plant-based alternatives and use a dairy-free cream cheese. Also, be sure the tomato soup is vegan or make your own sauce.
Can I add other ingredients to the casserole?
Definitely! Diced cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or sautéed mushrooms can add amazing depth. Just make sure extra moisture is minimal to avoid sogginess in the casserole.
How do I adjust cooking times for different ovens?
Every oven varies a bit, so keep a close eye on the casserole after about 20 minutes when baking. Look for bubbling tomato soup mixture and golden cheese topping as your cues to avoid over or undercooking.
What is the best bread to use?
Sourdough and white bread are fantastic because they get crispy but stay sturdy when baked with the soup. Avoid very thin or soft breads that might fall apart or become too soggy during baking.
Final Thoughts
This Tomato Soup & Grilled Cheese Casserole Recipe is pure comfort food bliss, perfect for when you want to turn a simple lunch throwback into a cozy family meal or show-stopping dish. It’s easy to prepare, wonderfully satisfying, and guaranteed to bring smiles around the table. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy two classic flavors all in one warm, cheesy bite!
Print
Tomato Soup & Grilled Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Tomato Soup & Grilled Cheese Casserole combines the comforting flavors of classic grilled cheese sandwiches with rich, creamy tomato soup in a baked casserole dish. Perfect for a cozy meal, the recipe features buttery grilled cheese cubes layered in a savory tomato and egg custard, then topped with melted Italian blend cheese for a deliciously cheesy finish.
Ingredients
Sandwiches
- 6 slices of bread (sourdough or white)
- 4 tbsp butter
- 6 oz cream cheese (optional)
- 12 slices sharp cheddar cheese
Casserole 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)
- 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.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Butter each slice of bread and layer with sharp cheddar cheese and optional cream cheese to create the grilled cheese sandwiches.
- Bake Sandwiches: Place the sandwiches in the oven and bake for 12–14 minutes, flipping once halfway through to ensure even toasting. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- Cube Sandwiches: Once cooled, cut the grilled cheese sandwiches into 1-inch cubes to prepare for layering in the casserole.
- Lower Oven Temperature: Reduce the oven heat to 350°F (175°C) for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Soup Mixture: In a mixing 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: Pour the soup mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the grilled cheese cubes evenly on top, pressing down lightly to submerge them slightly.
- Add Cheese Topping & Bake: Sprinkle the shredded Italian blend cheese over the sandwich cubes, then bake the casserole in the oven for 25–30 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
- Use sourdough bread for a tangier flavor or white bread for classic taste.
- The cream cheese is optional but adds extra creaminess to the sandwiches.
- You can add diced tomatoes to the soup mix for added texture and freshness.
- Flip the sandwiches during baking to get even browning on both sides.
- Let the sandwiches cool slightly after baking to make cubing easier and less messy.
