Simple Grilled Cheese

A quick, classic grilled cheese sandwich built for speed and comfort, paired with a simple tomato soup to add acidity and a vegetable component. The sandwich focuses on good melting cheese and buttered bread for a crisp, golden exterior and gooey interior. This meal is designed for 1–4 servings depending on recipe scaling, takes ~10–20 minutes total, and supports easy ingredient swaps (different cheeses, whole-grain or gluten-free bread, plant-based butter/cheese). Cooking tips: cook over medium-low heat for even melting, press gently with a spatula, and toast additional time if using thicker bread. Serve with a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh basil on the soup for brightness.