Creamy Tomato Bisque with Grilled Cheese Croutons

### Step-by-Step Instructions

#### 1. Make the Bisque
– Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
– Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
– Add the canned tomatoes (with their juice), tomato paste, and broth. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
– Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

#### 2. Blend and Finish
– Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth (or carefully blend in batches using a countertop blender).
– Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream, dried basil, and sugar if desired. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm on low heat.

#### 3. Prepare the Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
– Butter one side of each bread slice. Place two slices butter-side down in a skillet over medium heat.
– Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the bread, then top with the remaining slices (butter-side up).
– Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

#### 4. Make the Croutons
– Let the grilled cheese sandwiches cool slightly, then cut them into bite-sized squares to create croutons.

#### 5. Serve
– Ladle the creamy tomato bisque into bowls. Top with a handful of grilled cheese croutons for a fun and delicious garnish.

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### Tips for Success

1. **Use Quality Tomatoes**: Opt for San Marzano or another high-quality canned tomato for the best flavor.
2. **Adjust the Creaminess**: For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.
3. **Crouton Customization**: Experiment with different breads and cheeses for unique flavor combinations.
4. **Spice It Up**: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for an extra kick.

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### Pairing Suggestions

– **Salad**: Serve alongside a crisp Caesar salad or a simple arugula mix with balsamic dressing.
– **Drink**: Pair with a glass of Chardonnay or a cold iced tea for a refreshing complement.
– **Dessert**: Follow with a light dessert, like lemon bars or fresh fruit.

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### Storing and Reheating

– **Bisque**: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat.
– **Croutons**: For best results, prepare the grilled cheese croutons fresh. However, you can reheat them briefly in a skillet or oven.

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### Why This Dish Stands Out

**Creamy Tomato Bisque with Grilled Cheese Croutons** is the ultimate comfort food with a twist. The creamy bisque satisfies with its smooth texture and rich tomato flavor, while the cheesy croutons add a playful, satisfying crunch. This dish is versatile enough to serve as a simple weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing starter.

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### Conclusion

For a dish that’s as comforting as it is indulgent, **Creamy Tomato Bisque with Grilled Cheese Croutons** is a must-try. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of your childhood in an elevated, modern format. Gather your ingredients and get ready to savor this timeless pairing in a whole new way!