In a large Saucepan over medium heat, melt the 2 tbsp无盐黄油. Add the diced 1 yellow onion, 切碎 and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 6–8 minutes. Do not rush this step — properly softened onions build a sweet, savory base for the soup.

Add the minced 4 cloves of garlic, 切碎 and 1 tbsp番茄酱. Stir constantly and cook for 1–2 minutes until the 4 cloves of garlic, 切碎 is fragrant and the 1 tbsp番茄酱 darkens slightly in color. This step deepens the tomato flavor.

Pour in the canned San Marzano Peeled Tomatoes (with all their juices), 1 ½ cups鸡汤, 1 tsp糖, dried ½ tsp干牛至, and 1 pinch红辣椒片 if using. Use a Wooden Spoon to crush the whole tomatoes against the side of the pot. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together.

Remove the pot from heat. Add the torn fresh ¼ cup新鲜罗勒叶 松散包装. Using an Immersion Blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until completely smooth and velvety. Alternatively, carefully transfer in batches to a Blender.

Return the Pot to low heat. Stir in the ½ cup淡奶油 and season with 2 tbsp无盐黄油 and 1 tsp食盐 另加适量 to taste. Keep warm on the lowest heat setting while you make the grilled cheese sandwiches.

Lay out all 8 slices of 8 slices of white sandwich bread, 切片. Spread a thin, even layer of softened 2 tbsp无盐黄油 on one side of each slice. For an extra golden, crispy crust, mix a small amount of 1 tbsp蛋黄酱 into the 2 tbsp无盐黄油 before spreading — this is the secret to diner-style grilled cheese.

Flip 4 slices of 8 slices of white sandwich bread, 切片 butter-side down. Layer 2 slices of 8 slices of sharp cheddar cheese, 切片 and 1 slice of 4 slices of american cheese, 切片 on each. Top with the remaining 8 slices of white sandwich bread, 切片 slices, butter-side up.

Heat a large Skillet over medium-low heat. Place 1–2 sandwiches in the Skillet (do not crowd). Cook for 3–4 minutes until the bottom is deep golden brown and the cheese begins to melt.

Carefully flip each sandwich and press down gently with a Spatula. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until the second side is evenly golden and the cheese is fully melted. Repeat with remaining sandwiches.

Transfer sandwiches to a Cutting Board and let rest for 1 minute before slicing diagonally. This prevents the cheese from sliding out immediately.

Ladle the hot tomato soup into bowls. Serve immediately alongside the grilled cheese sandwiches. Optionally garnish the soup with a drizzle of cream, a few fresh ¼ cup新鲜罗勒叶 松散包装, or a crack of 1 tsp食盐 另加适量.