To roast the tomatoes, see my Herb Roasted Tomatoes recipe.

Learn how to make Candied Bacon with my recipe and chop them into medium pieces. Set a small amount aside for topping.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

On the outsides of each bread slice, spread a bit of the Garlic Herb Butter so that they become nicely crisp and golden. On one side of 2 slices of bread, top with a handful of shredded cheese. Place the other side of bread that has nothing (ensuring that the buttered side is on the outside) atop the cheese, pressing them gently together to make a sandwich. Repeat for both sandwiches.

Place sandwiches onto prepared baking sheet and cover with parchment paper and another baking sheet so that everything is pressed down while baking. Baked for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown on the outsides and cheese has melted. Remove from oven and let cool until safe enough to handle before slicing them into squares like croutons.

In a medium-sized dutch oven pot over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once heated, add the chopped onions and minced garlic cloves, and sauté until translucent + fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add the garlic powder, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, and tomato paste, stirring until combined.

Remove from heat and add the sautéed veggies in a high-powered blender along with the roasted tomatoes, chopped candied bacon, and vegetable or chicken stock. Blend on high-speed until everything is fully broken down and smooth.

In the same medium-sized dutch oven pot over medium-high heat, add the blended tomato mixture along with the heavy cream, cooking wine, grated parmesan, and maple syrup, stirring everything together until combined.

Let everything boil for 1-2 minutes and then reduce heat to low to allow a simmer for another 5-6 minutes. Add cornstarch mixture (cornstarch + water), stirring frequently until it dissolves fully.

At this point, the bisque should be thickened as it continues to simmer. Add salt and black pepper, to taste.

Remove from heat and serve immediately into prepared bowl(s), top with grilled cheese croutons, a bit of chopped candied bacon, and chopped parsley, if desired.

Bon Appetit!