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Cozy Cast Iron Campfire Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup Cups

cast iron campfire grilled cheese - featured image

A warm and satisfying camping meal featuring crispy cast iron grilled cheese sandwiches paired with rich tomato soup cups, perfect for cozy nights around the campfire.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 slices of sturdy bread (sourdough or country white preferred)
  • 6 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, sliced or shredded
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (or dairy-free margarine)
  • Optional: 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (optional)
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil or Italian seasoning
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil or chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tomato Soup Base (10 minutes): In a mixing bowl, combine crushed tomatoes, broth, minced garlic, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well. Fold in heavy cream or coconut cream if using. Divide soup evenly into heatproof cups, filling about three-quarters full.
  2. Heat the Soup Cups on the Campfire (10-15 minutes): Place soup cups on grill grate over low to medium heat. Warm slowly, stirring occasionally to prevent burning or skin forming. Soup is ready when hot and slightly thickened.
  3. Butter and Assemble the Grilled Cheese (5 minutes): Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each bread slice. Optionally spread Dijon mustard on the non-buttered side. Layer sharp cheddar on four slices, then top with remaining slices, butter side out.
  4. Cook the Grilled Cheese (8 minutes): Place sandwiches in preheated cast iron skillet over campfire. Cook on medium heat about 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with spatula for even grilling. Look for golden-brown crust and melted cheese.
  5. Serve Together: Remove grilled cheese from skillet carefully. Serve with hot tomato soup garnished with fresh basil or chives.

Notes

Control heat carefully to avoid burning bread. Use softened butter for even spreading. Pre-slice cheese and butter bread before camping to reduce prep time. Soup cups should be filled three-quarters full to prevent spills. For dairy-free version, substitute butter, cheese, and cream with vegan alternatives. Soup can be prepared ahead and warmed at camp.

Nutrition

Keywords: campfire grilled cheese, tomato soup cups, camping meals, cast iron skillet, comfort food, easy camping recipe