Easy Tomato Bisque with Grilled Cheese Sticks

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup shredded Gruyère
• 1/3 cup diced carrot
• 2/3 cup diced onion
• 1 1/2 tbsp Brummel & Brown or other soft butter
• 1/2 tsp cooking sherry
• 1 28 oz can whole tomatoes
• 2 ounces sharp cheddar cheese
• 4 tbsp heavy cream or half & half
• 4 slices sourdough bread
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 8 oz chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 clove garlic
• 1 tsp dried thyme