Lobster Grilled Cheese with Tomato Bisque

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There are few things more comforting than the combination of a grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup. This recipe takes that classic pairing to a luxurious level by adding tender chunks of lobster to the grilled cheese and pairing it with a silky, creamy tomato bisque. The result is a meal that’s cozy, indulgent, and perfect for when you want to treat yourself or impress guests without too much effort.

This dish works beautifully for a relaxed weekend lunch, a date night dinner, or even a small dinner party starter. The rich, buttery lobster, gooey melted cheese, and crusty golden bread are irresistible when dipped into a warm, fragrant bisque made from tomatoes, garlic, onions, and fresh basil.

Ingredients (4 servings)

For the Lobster Grilled Cheese 🦞🧀

  • 250 g (9 oz) cooked lobster meat, chopped
  • 8 slices bread (sourdough or country bread works best)
  • 4 tbsp butter, softened
  • 150 g (5 oz) shredded cheese (Gruyère, cheddar, or a blend)
  • Optional: a handful of fresh arugula or spinach

For the Tomato Bisque 🍅

  • 800 g (28 oz) canned whole or diced tomatoes
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 250 ml (1 cup) chicken or vegetable stock
  • 120 ml (½ cup) heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: pinch of sugar to balance acidity

Instructions

1️⃣ Make the Tomato Bisque

  1. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant (about 3–4 minutes).
  3. Add canned tomatoes, stock, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar if your tomatoes taste too acidic.
  4. Simmer gently for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Blend the soup with an immersion blender until smooth and creamy.
  6. Stir in heavy cream and fresh basil. Keep warm until ready to serve.

2️⃣ Prepare the Lobster Grilled Cheese

  1. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
  2. On the unbuttered side, layer shredded cheese, chopped lobster meat, and a few greens if using.
  3. Top with another slice of bread, buttered side facing out.
  4. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
  5. Cook sandwiches for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.

3️⃣ Serve

  • Cut each sandwich diagonally for a classic grilled cheese look.
  • Ladle the warm tomato bisque into bowls and garnish with extra basil or a drizzle of cream.
  • Serve immediately with the lobster grilled cheese for dipping.

Tips & Variations

  • 🥖 Try using ciabatta or a rustic country loaf for more crunch and texture.
  • 🧂 Add a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the cheese for a subtle kick.
  • 🦐 Swap lobster with cooked shrimp for a more budget-friendly version without losing that seafood indulgence.
  • 🧄 Roast the garlic before blending it into the bisque for a deeper, sweeter flavor.

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and elegance. The lobster makes the grilled cheese feel special, while the tomato bisque provides a velvety, flavorful counterpart. It’s one of those meals you’ll want to return to again and again.

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