Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons (One-Pot, Freezer-Friendly)
By Rossi Voss | April 11, 2025 | Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Servings: 4 | Cost: $2.75/serving
Readers love how rich and comforting this feels — just like childhood!
As someone who wrote Stockpot Cookbook: 139 Simple and Hearty Recipes (only $0.99!), I know few dishes comfort the soul like a steaming bowl of tomato soup.
This **Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Soup** delivers deep flavor, silky texture, and the ultimate upgrade: **crispy grilled cheese croutons** made right in your air fryer. No stovetop babysitting — just set it and walk away.
Why This Recipe Works
- Creamy without cream: Uses blended cashews or white beans for richness.
- Kid-approved: Picky eaters love the familiar flavor with a fun twist.
- Freezer-friendly: Portion and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Budget-smart: Costs under $3/serving using pantry staples.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup raw cashews (or ½ cup canned white beans) — for creaminess
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
For the Grilled Cheese Croutons:
- 4 slices bread (sourdough or whole grain)
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: Press “Sauté” on Instant Pot. Add oil, onion, and garlic. Cook 5 mins until soft.
- Add remaining soup ingredients: Stir in tomatoes, broth, spices, salt, pepper, and cashews (or beans).
- Cook: Seal lid → Manual High Pressure 10 mins → Quick release.
- Blend: Use immersion blender to puree until smooth (or transfer to blender in batches).
- Make croutons: Butter one side of each bread slice. Layer cheese between slices, buttered-side out. Air fry at 375°F for 6–8 mins until golden and crispy. Cut into cubes.
- Serve: Ladle soup into bowls. Top with grilled cheese croutons and fresh basil.
Serving Suggestions
- Lunchbox favorite: Pair with a side salad or apple slices.
- Dipper delight: Serve with extra croutons or crusty bread for dipping.
- Kid-friendly: Let kids build their own crouton-topped bowls.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store soup in airtight container up to 5 days. Keep croutons separate.
- Freeze: Cool completely, portion into 1–2 cup containers — lasts 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm on stove or in Instant Pot with a splash of broth. Air fry croutons from frozen.
Variations & Substitutions
- Dairy-free: Use vegan cheese and olive oil instead of butter.
- Nut-free: Swap cashews for white beans or oat milk.
- Extra protein: Stir in cooked lentils or shredded chicken.
- Smoky twist: Add ½ tsp liquid smoke or chipotle powder.
Internal Links & Resources
Cookbook Pick: Want more comforting soups? Try my Stockpot Cookbook: 139 Simple and Hearty Recipes — packed with chowders, stews, and brothy meals!
Free Printable: Download your Free 4-Week High-Protein Meal Plan PDF — includes grocery lists and appliance guides.
Reader Reviews
Jamie T. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"My kids devoured these! Made them for a school party and got so many requests for the recipe."
Posted April 9, 2025
Linda M. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Perfect for meal prep. I used turkey sausage and added kale. So flavorful and filling!"
Posted April 7, 2025
Marcus R. ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
"Great base recipe. I swapped in red lentils and finished with lemon juice. Next time I’ll add more spice."
Posted April 5, 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes?
Yes! Use 3 lbs ripe tomatoes, blanched, peeled, and chopped. Simmer 5 mins before pressure cooking.
Do I need cashews for creaminess?
Not necessarily! White beans, oat milk, or coconut milk work well too.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep soup and croutons separate. Reheat soup with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Soup proves that restaurant-quality comfort doesn’t require hours of work. With just a few quality ingredients and proper technique, you can serve a dish that warms both body and soul.
Want more soup mastery? Try my Stockpot Cookbook for easy chowders, stews, and brothy wonders — all under $3.50/serving.
What’s your favorite way to customize tomato soup? Share your creations with #RossiVossTomatoSoup.
Happy Cooking!
Rossi Voss