Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons

Ingredients

- 4 servings +

• 3 lbs fresh Roma or plum tomatoes, halved lengthwise
• 1 whole head garlic, top 1/4 inch sliced off to expose cloves
• 1 medium yellow onion, cut into wedges
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, for roasting
• 2 ½ cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream, for silky texture
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning, dried oregano, thyme, basil
• 1 tsp kosher salt, to taste
• ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• 4 slices artisan sourdough bread, for croutons
• 1 ½ cups sharp yellow cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, for pan-toasting sandwiches