When I first created this tomato soup and grilled cheese casserole, it was out of sheer necessity. A stormy night, leftover soup cans, a loaf of sourdough, and just enough cheddar. But the result? Magic. That dish was so comforting it instantly became part of our weekly dinner rotation. There’s something incredibly nostalgic about the pairing of gooey cheese and tangy tomato — it’s warm, familiar, and guaranteed to make everyone at the table happy. This casserole brings that perfect combo together in one hearty bake, ideal for family dinners or potlucks.
You’ll find the familiar comfort of grilled cheese and tomato soup, but in a layered, oven-baked form. It’s bold, it’s cheesy, and it’s easy to prepare ahead of time. From making golden toasted sandwiches to whisking the flavorful tomato custard base, it all comes together in one warm, bubbly dish. Let’s dive in.
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Why Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole Are America’s Favorite Combo
The comforting origins of this Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole-style favorite
The tomato soup and grilled cheese casserole builds upon decades of culinary nostalgia. While the classic soup-and-sandwich combo has deep roots in American kitchens, turning it into a one-pan casserole feels like the next logical step for busy weeknights. It’s no wonder that comfort food classics like this stick around — they’re timeless and satisfying.
The evolution started in the 1950s when Campbell’s Tomato Soup and processed cheese became pantry staples. Schools served them together, military kitchens relied on their simplicity, and busy parents leaned on the speed. Fast-forward to now, and home cooks are turning that pairing into creative bakes that bring the same joy in fewer steps. This recipe keeps the flavors you love, while adding the joy of cheesy oven crisp on top.
Creamy, cheesy layers meet hearty soup base
The dish starts with toasted sourdough grilled cheese sandwiches, stuffed with sharp cheddar and cream cheese. Baked first, then cubed, these become the top layer of the casserole. Underneath lies the creamy tomato soup custard — a blend of condensed tomato soup, tomato juice, eggs, and seasoning.
By baking it all together, the sandwiches soak slightly into the tomato base, like a savory bread pudding, while the tops stay golden and crisp. It’s the best parts of soup and sandwich combined in every bite.
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Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole | So Easy and Delicious
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole blends the classic flavors of creamy tomato soup and melty grilled cheese into one comforting baked meal.
Ingredients
12 (½-inch thick) slices sourdough bread
1/4 cup butter, softened, divided
3 ounces cream cheese, softened
12 slices pre-sliced Cheddar cheese
2 (10.5 ounce) cans condensed tomato soup
1 cup tomato juice
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 Roma tomato, chopped
1 cup shredded Italian blend or Cheddar cheese
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 450°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Butter 6 slices of bread and place butter-side-down on a baking sheet.
3. Spread with cream cheese, then top with 2 cheddar slices each.
4. Top with remaining bread and butter the tops.
5. Bake sandwiches 12–14 minutes, flipping once, until golden.
6. Cool sandwiches 15 minutes. Reduce oven to 350°F.
7. Whisk together soup, juice, eggs, seasoning, garlic, and tomato.
8. Cut sandwiches into 1-inch cubes.
9. Pour soup mix into baking dish. Layer sandwich cubes on top.
10. Press cubes gently into soup. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
11. Bake 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Notes
Let sandwiches cool before cubing to maintain crispness.
Use different cheeses for a custom flavor twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 970mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: tomato soup and grilled cheese casserole, cheesy bake, comfort food, Cream cheese, condensed tomato soup, tomato juice
How to Make Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole
Step-by-step process with kitchen tips
Start with 12 slices of sourdough — hearty and perfect for soaking up flavor. Spread softened butter on both sides and toast them in the oven after stuffing them with cheddar and cream cheese. Flip once to ensure both sides get golden. Let the sandwiches cool before cubing them — this helps retain their shape.
While the sandwiches bake, whisk together the soup base: two cans of tomato soup, a cup of tomato juice, two eggs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and chopped Roma tomato. Pour it into a greased 9×13-inch pan.
Now, layer the sandwich cubes evenly over the soup mix, pressing gently so they absorb some of that rich base. Finish with shredded Italian cheese and bake again until bubbly and crisp on top.
What makes this Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole stand out?
It’s the contrast of textures that truly shines. The bottom becomes soft and rich, like soaked croutons, while the top edges stay crunchy with gooey cheese throughout. You can use sharp cheddar or go bold with a smoky provolone or pepper jack. Want extra flair? Add caramelized onions or crispy bacon between the grilled cheese layers.
Ingredient Swaps and Smart Upgrades
Customizing the base and bread
This casserole is incredibly flexible. Swap the sourdough for French bread, ciabatta, or even whole wheat. Each brings its own texture — rustic breads stay chewier, while soft breads melt into the base more.
Instead of the canned tomato soup, try a homemade roasted tomato puree or spicy arrabbiata if you want heat. Add basil pesto or red pepper flakes for layers of flavor. You can even stir in cooked spinach or mushrooms for a veggie-loaded twist.
Need a gluten-free version? Use your favorite GF sandwich bread and ensure the tomato soup is gluten-free certified.
Cheese variety and topping ideas
Though cheddar is traditional, you can play with the cheese layer. Use Gruyère for nutty depth, Monterey Jack for extra melt, or smoked mozzarella for richness. Sprinkle parmesan on top for a golden crust.
Try adding crispy pancetta or sausage in between sandwich layers. And for added crunch, mix crushed croutons or buttered breadcrumbs into the top before the final bake.
Serving Tips, Leftovers & Meal Planning
How to serve Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole and pair this casserole
Serve piping hot with a side salad or roasted veggies. This tomato soup and grilled cheese casserole is rich, so a crisp arugula salad or lemon-dressed greens offer a fresh contrast. You can also serve it with a small bowl of tomato bisque for that double-soup delight.
Planning ahead? You can prep the sandwiches and soup base the night before. Store them separately and assemble right before baking. It also makes for a great meal prep lunch — it reheats beautifully.
Storing Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole and reheating leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven covered with foil for 15 minutes, or microwave individual portions. You can also freeze the fully assembled, unbaked casserole for up to a month.
Related Recipes
Here are some recipes you might also enjoy:
1. Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole – Rich Flavor, Easy Bake
This creamy, oven-baked chicken casserole is loaded with flavor and richness. It complements the cheesy texture and comforting vibes of your grilled cheese casserole perfectly.
2. Marry Me Dip: The Addictive Cheesy Appetizer You’ll Love Forever
Packed with cheese, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, this baked dip offers the same gooey, melty comfort. It’s a great appetizer to serve alongside or before your tomato casserole.
Conclusion
This tomato soup and grilled cheese casserole delivers everything you love about the classic duo — rich, cheesy, tangy, and baked to perfection. It’s the kind of meal that brings people to the table and keeps them coming back. Whether it’s for Sunday dinner or a cozy weeknight, this dish hits all the right notes: hearty, nostalgic, and irresistibly good.
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FAQs
Who made grilled cheese and tomato soup popular?
The pairing became widely popular in the U.S. during the 20th century, thanks to processed cheese and Campbell’s canned tomato soup, often served together in schools and military kitchens.
Why do people pair grilled cheese with tomato soup?
The combination balances flavors — the rich, fatty cheese contrasts perfectly with the bright acidity of tomato soup. It’s also filling, affordable, and comforting.
How to upgrade grilled cheese and tomato soup?
Add fresh herbs, bacon, or caramelized onions to the sandwich. Swap the soup for a spiced tomato bisque or add cream and roasted garlic for depth.
What country does grilled cheese and tomato soup come from?
Grilled cheese has American roots, evolving from bread-and-cheese dishes across Europe. Tomato soup is popular worldwide but gained mainstream popularity in the U.S. via commercial canning.