Grilled Cheese Sandwich & Tomato Soup Recipe

A comforting classic with a healthy twist, the high-protein grilled cheese sandwich paired with rich and flavorful tomato soup is the perfect meal for any time of day. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy lunch or preparing a quick dinner, this recipe elevates the usual grilled cheese experience by adding protein-packed ingredients. The creamy, tangy tomato soup complements the crispy, cheesy sandwich in a way that will make you feel satisfied without the guilt.

Not only is it a warm and hearty meal, but it’s also easy to make, making it a win for busy days or when you just need a nourishing treat.

Whether you’re looking for a new take on a favorite or need a boost in your protein intake, this combination checks all the boxes.

Recipe Information

Attribute	Details
Time to Make	20 minutes
Calories	450-500 calories per serving
Gluten-Free	Can be made gluten-free
Vegan	Can be made vegan
Protein	High protein (approx. 25g per serving)
Servings	2-4 servings
Difficulty	Easy
Cuisine Type	American Comfort Food

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

This High Protein Grilled Cheese Sandwich & Tomato Soup recipe is a perfect blend of comfort and nutrition, offering a healthier take on a beloved classic. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Protein Boost: The grilled cheese sandwich is made with protein-rich ingredients, making it a filling meal that keeps you energized for longer.
Comforting and Hearty: With the crispy, melty grilled cheese and the rich, creamy tomato soup, it’s the ultimate comfort food that warms you up and satisfies your cravings.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is simple to make and ideal for a quick lunch or dinner after a long day.
Customizable: You can adapt the recipe to suit your dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free option or a vegan twist, this recipe can be easily modified.
Balanced Meal: The combination of protein, healthy fats, and vegetables makes this a well-rounded dish that’s not only delicious but also nourishing.
Perfect Pairing: The grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup complement each other beautifully, providing a rich and savory flavor experience in every bite.

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Ingredients to Make Grilled Cheese Sandwich & Tomato Soup

This recipe combines simple yet wholesome ingredients that create a high-protein meal. Below is a list of everything you’ll need to make both the grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup.

For the Grilled Cheese Sandwich:

Whole Grain Bread (2 slices) – Whole grain bread adds fiber and nutrients, which makes it a healthier choice than refined bread.
High-Protein Cheese (2 slices) – Swiss or cheddar are good options for cheese. These cheeses are rich in protein and melt wonderfully, making them perfect for the sandwich.
Greek Yogurt (2 tablespoons) – Greek yogurt is used instead of butter to provide a creamy texture, and it contributes additional protein, making the meal even more filling.
Spinach or Arugula (Optional, a handful) – Fresh greens like spinach or arugula can be added for extra flavor and nutritional value, but this is optional.
Tomato Slices (Optional, 2 slices) – Fresh tomato slices add juiciness and a tangy contrast to the richness of the cheese, but they can be left out if you prefer.

For the Tomato Soup:

Canned Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz) – Canned tomatoes are the base of the soup. They are easy to use and provide a rich, tangy flavor that is essential for the soup’s base.
Vegetable Broth (2 cups) – Vegetable broth adds depth and savory flavor to the soup, complementing the tomatoes and enhancing the overall taste.
Onion (1 small, finely chopped) – Onion gives the soup a subtle sweetness and richness when sautéed, and it helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Garlic adds an aromatic and savory flavor, intensifying the taste of the soup and bringing out the best in the other ingredients.
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon) – Used for sautéing the onion and garlic, olive oil adds richness to the soup and helps release the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
Dried Basil (1 teaspoon, optional) – Basil gives the soup a fresh, herbal flavor, but you can omit it if you prefer a simpler taste.
Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon, optional) – Oregano adds a savory and earthy flavor, which complements the tomatoes beautifully but can be left out if you prefer.
Salt and Pepper (to taste) – Basic seasonings to enhance and balance the flavors of the soup.

Steps to Make Grilled Cheese Sandwich & Tomato Soup

Follow these easy steps to create your high-protein grilled cheese sandwich and comforting tomato soup.

Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Soup

Start by heating olive oil in a medium-sized pot over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. After that, add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds to bring out its aromatic flavor.

Next, pour in the canned tomatoes with their juices, followed by the vegetable broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to come together and deepen.

After simmering, season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like, add basil and oregano for extra flavor. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the seasonings to infuse. If you prefer a smooth soup, you can blend it using an immersion blender or transfer it to a regular blender. Blend until it reaches your desired consistency. For a chunkier texture, feel free to skip this step.

Step 2: Make the Grilled Cheese Sandwich

While the soup is simmering, it’s time to make the grilled cheese. Start by spreading Greek yogurt evenly on one side of each slice of bread. This will help create a crispy crust once it’s grilled. Then, place a slice of high-protein cheese on top of one slice of bread. If you’re using spinach or arugula, add a handful on top of the cheese for added flavor and nutrition. You can also add tomato slices if desired.

Next, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, place the sandwich in the pan and grill for 3-4 minutes on each side. Press the sandwich down gently with a spatula to ensure the bread crisps up evenly. Flip the sandwich carefully when the first side is golden brown and crispy. Grill the second side until the cheese is melted and the bread is perfectly crispy.

Serve the grilled cheese with a side of tomato soup, and you have yourself a delicious, protein-packed meal!

Serving Suggestions

This high-protein grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup are perfect on their own, but you can elevate the meal with a few simple serving ideas.

Add a Side Salad – Pair your sandwich and soup with a fresh green salad, such as a spinach or arugula salad, for extra fiber and freshness. A light vinaigrette can complement the rich flavors of the soup and sandwich.

Serve with Fresh Fruit – Consider serving the meal with some fruit like apple slices or a small bowl of mixed berries for a touch of sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory dishes.

Top the Soup with Croutons or Cheese – For extra crunch, sprinkle some croutons or grated Parmesan cheese on top of the soup before serving. It adds texture and a bit of extra flavor.

Enjoy with Pickles or Olives – A side of pickles or olives can offer a tangy contrast that complements the richness of the grilled cheese sandwich.

Can We Make them in Advance: Meal Prep Tips

Yes, you can absolutely make both the grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup in advance, which is great for meal prep or if you’re short on time.

For the Soup:

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the tomato soup up to 3 days ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe as usual, let the soup cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezing: If you want to store the soup for a longer period, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool completely, then pour it into a freezer-safe container or freezer bags. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove.

For the Sandwich:

Assemble and Freeze: You can assemble the grilled cheese sandwiches and freeze them before grilling. Wrap the sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook, grill the sandwich directly from frozen. It will take a little longer, but it’s a great time-saver.

Tips and Tricks

To make your High Protein Grilled Cheese Sandwich and Tomato Soup even better, here are some useful tips and tricks:

Use Fresh Bread – Fresh, soft bread will give your sandwich a more delightful texture. If you’re using whole grain bread, make sure it’s not too thick, as it might be harder to grill evenly.
Cheese Varieties – Experiment with different high-protein cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack. Mixing a couple of cheese varieties can elevate the flavor of the sandwich.
Crisp the Bread Just Right – When grilling the sandwich, make sure the pan is preheated and the heat is not too high. This will ensure the bread crisps up evenly without burning while the cheese melts perfectly inside.
Season the Soup Well – The key to a flavorful tomato soup is the seasoning. Don’t be afraid to add extra salt, pepper, or herbs like basil or thyme to get the perfect taste.
For Extra Creaminess – If you like your tomato soup extra creamy, add a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream after blending. This will give the soup a velvety texture.

Variations and Customizations

While this recipe is fantastic as is, you can customize both the sandwich and the soup to suit your tastes.

For the Grilled Cheese:

Vegan Version: For a vegan option, use plant-based cheese and replace the Greek yogurt with vegan butter or avocado for spreading.
Add Protein: To make the sandwich even higher in protein, add lean turkey or chicken slices, or a fried egg for extra filling power.
Spicy Grilled Cheese: Add some jalapeño slices or a drizzle of hot sauce inside the sandwich to give it a spicy kick.

For the Tomato Soup:

Creamy Tomato Soup: Add a touch of heavy cream or coconut milk to the soup for a richer, creamier texture.
Add Roasted Veggies: Enhance the flavor by roasting some vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini and adding them to the soup base.
Herbed Tomato Soup: Experiment with fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves to add a unique flavor profile to the soup.

Storage Instructions

Both the grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup can be stored properly to maintain their flavor and freshness.

Storing Tomato Soup:

In the Fridge: If you plan to keep the soup for a few days, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
In the Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion as it freezes.

Storing Grilled Cheese Sandwiches:

In the Fridge: It’s best to eat the grilled cheese sandwiches fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet or the oven for the best results.
In the Freezer: If you want to store the sandwich for a longer period, wrap it tightly and freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating, use a skillet or oven to maintain the sandwich’s crispy texture.

Can We Reheat High Protein Grilled Cheese Sandwich & Tomato Soup?

Yes, both parts of this meal can be reheated quite easily!

Reheating Tomato Soup:

On the Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches your desired temperature.
In the Microwave: Transfer the soup to a microwave-safe container and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until it’s heated evenly.

Reheating Grilled Cheese Sandwich:

In a Skillet: Heat the sandwich in a skillet over low heat. This will help crisp up the bread and melt the cheese again. Cover the skillet to keep the sandwich warm as you reheat it.
In the Oven: You can also reheat the sandwich in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crisping.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use non-dairy cheese for the sandwich?
Yes, you can use non-dairy cheese if you follow a vegan or dairy-free diet. Make sure to pick a good-quality vegan cheese that melts well.

Can I make the soup without broth?
Yes, you can use water instead of vegetable broth, but it may be less flavorful. If you want more depth, consider using a vegetable bouillon cube dissolved in water.

Can I add meat to the sandwich?
Absolutely! Adding sliced chicken, turkey, or ham to your sandwich is a great way to increase protein even more.

How do I make this recipe spicier?
To add a spicy kick, you can incorporate chili flakes, hot sauce, or fresh jalapeños in both the sandwich and the soup.

Conclusion

This High Protein Grilled Cheese Sandwich & Tomato Soup is the perfect combination of comfort and nutrition. With simple ingredients, easy steps, and the ability to customize to your tastes, it’s a meal that satisfies hunger while fueling your body with healthy protein. Whether you’re making it ahead of time or enjoying it fresh, this recipe will quickly become a go-to for a cozy and hearty meal!