Save It A comforting, family-friendly casserole combining creamy tomato soup with layers of buttery, cheesy bread, baked to golden perfection.
I still remember the first chilly evening I served this bake to my family. The warm aroma of buttered bread and tomatoes instantly brought smiles to everyone at the dinner table.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Crushed tomatoes: 2 cans (14 oz each)
- Vegetable broth: 2 cups
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Dried basil: 1 teaspoon
- Dried oregano: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Heavy cream: 1/2 cup
- Country or sourdough bread: 8 slices
- Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons, softened
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 2 cups (8 oz), shredded
- Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup (4 oz), shredded
Instructions
- Prep and oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
- Cook soup:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook 4 minutes, stirring. Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Simmer:
- Add crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, sugar, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream.
- Prepare sandwiches:
- Spread butter on one side of each bread slice. Place 4 slices buttered side down, top with cheddar and mozzarella, and cover with remaining bread slices, buttered side up, to form 4 sandwiches.
- Grill sandwiches:
- Heat skillet over medium heat and grill sandwiches 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Cool slightly then cut into quarters.
- Assemble casserole:
- Pour half the tomato soup into the casserole dish. Arrange half the sandwich quarters on top. Pour remaining soup and add remaining sandwich pieces.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
Save It Every time I make this, my little ones help lay out the bread slices, making it a true hands-on family tradition.
Required Tools
Large pot, skillet, casserole dish, knife, cutting board, and spatula are all you'll need.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat and milk. Some breads or cheeses may include soy. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each serving has about 440 calories, 25g total fat, 38g carbohydrates, and 15g protein.
Save It This casserole is guaranteed to warm up any evening. Make it once and you will want to keep coming back to it.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve the best texture for the tomato layer?
Simmer the crushed tomatoes with herbs gently to concentrate flavors while maintaining a smooth consistency before adding cream to enhance richness.
- → What type of bread works best for the grilled cheese layer?
Sourdough or country-style bread provides a sturdy base that crisps well and holds the cheese without becoming soggy.
- → Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate it before baking. Bring to room temperature and bake as directed to ensure even cooking.
- → What cheeses create the best melt and flavor?
Sharp cheddar offers flavor depth, while mozzarella contributes smooth meltiness and creaminess for the perfect layered taste.
- → How can I add a spicy kick to this dish?
Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the tomato base during simmering to balance creaminess with subtle heat.