What could be better than creamy tomato soup? Creamy tomato soup served with crispy bacon and smoked gouda croutons.
I would have to say that soups are one of my favorite things to cook. I love being able to combine flavors and textures, creating a good comfort food that can warm the body as well as the soul. Jackie loves the fall season as well. A good bowl of soup, a warm sweater, and a cool autumn breeze is a picture perfect moment for her. She enjoys helping to brainstorm ideas for comforting fall soups, and this is no exception.
Tomato flavors have been calling my name, but in true superman cooks fashion, we had to find a way to make this soup a little more unique. Cream of Tomato Soup with grilled cheese is a classic combination. We decided to create a gourmet “grilled cheese” crouton with smoked Gouda and bacon and add it directly to the soup, combining our favorite flavors and taking simple tomato soup to the next level. 
The smokiness of the bacon and the nuttiness of the smoked Gouda tastes great, adding a complex texture to the creamy soup. This recipe is ideal for the novice cook, as it is super simple and very forgiving. Yet the result is packed with flavor, giving anyone the courage to take on more complex recipes. So if you happen to have an abundance of tomatoes and need a quick meal idea, be sure to give this one a try. You will not be disappointed.
Check out some of our other favorite heart-warming soup recipes: Southwestern Turkey Chili, Tuscan Peasant Soup, Spaghetti and Meatball Soup
Click here for the recipe for the bacon-gouda croutons.
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Creamy Tomato Soup and Bacon-Gouda Croutons
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
Roasted tomatoes make this soup extra-flavorful. Bacon-Gouda croutons add a delightful crunch.
Ingredients
- 10-12 roma tomatoes
- 1 medium onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 4-6 basil leaves
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 0.5-1 cups (118-237 ml) heavy cream
- 1 tsp chicken base
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C)
- Cut tomatoes into 2″ pieces and place on a baking sheet. Add roughly chopped onions and garlic.
- Sprinkle with olive oil, crushed red pepper, Italian seasoning, and black pepper.
- Place in the oven and roast for 30-40 minutes, until tomatoes are soft and onions are translucent.
- Transfer to a medium saucepan and add basil leaves, chicken base, and 1 cup of water.
- Grind until smooth using a stick (immersion) blender.
- Add heavy cream and stir. Use as much cream as needed to reach desired consistency.
- TO MAKE CROUTONS:
Notes
- For richer flavor, use homemade chicken base instead of store-bought.
- To prevent soggy croutons, toast them separately and add them just before serving.
- Substitute Gruyere or another strong cheese for the Gouda in the croutons.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 400
- Fat: 25
- Saturated Fat: 15
- Unsaturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 10
- Cholesterol: 40
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of tomatoes work best for this creamy tomato soup?
For the best flavor, use ripe, fresh tomatoes, but canned San Marzano tomatoes can also work well if fresh ones aren’t available.
How can I make the bacon-gouda croutons crispy?
To achieve crispy croutons, make sure to cook the bacon until it’s fully crisp before adding the smoked Gouda and toasting the bread until golden brown.
Can I substitute the smoked Gouda with another cheese?
Yes, you can substitute smoked Gouda with another cheese like sharp cheddar or fontina, but it will alter the flavor profile of the croutons.
