METHOD FOR SOUP:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook over medium-low heat for approximately 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Stir in the chicken stock, tomatoes, sugar, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, fill a medium pot with water, add a dash of salt and bring to a boil. Add the orzo and cook for 7 minutes. {It will finish cooking in the soup.} Drain the orzo and set aside briefly.

{OPTIONAL - For a Creamier Soup} When the soup is finished simmering, pour into a large blender. {Be sure to purée in small batches and crack the blender lid slightly so steam can escape. If the lid is too tight or if the blender is overfilled, it may spray hot soup everywhere. You can also cover the top with a dish towel while puréeing.} When the soup is finished simmering, pour into a large blender {if desired}. Blend for 1-2 minutes until soup is creamy and smooth. {Be sure to purée in small batches and crack the blender lid slightly so steam can escape. If the lid is too tight or if the blender is overfilled, it may spray hot soup everywhere. You can also cover the top with a dish towel while puréeing.}

Once the soup is blended until smooth and creamy, pour back into its original pot. Stir in the cooked orzo and heavy cream {if desired}. Return the soup to a simmer and cook for 10 more minutes, stirring frequently.

METHOD FOR GRILLED CHEESE:

Heat a panini press or skillet. Brush {one-side} of all four slices of bread with the melted butter. Turn the slices over and pile grated cheese on two of the slices. Place the remaining two slices of bread on top of the cheese, buttered sides up.

Grill the sandwiches on the panini press or skillet for approximately 5 minutes, until nicely browned. Place on a cutting board, allow to rest for 1 minute and cut into 1-inch cubes.

TO SERVE:

Spoon warm soup into a bowl and top with hot Grilled Cheese Croutons. Serve immediately. Enjoy!