Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings is a delicious and comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or serving guests at a gathering, this recipe combines the rich flavors of tomato soup with the savory goodness of cheddar bay dumplings. It’s easy to prepare and sure to impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty meal ready in under an hour.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of canned diced tomatoes and spices creates a depth of flavor that warms your soul.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or as a side, this recipe pairs well with salads, sandwiches, or crusty bread.
- Comfort Food: The creamy tomato soup complemented by cheesy dumplings brings nostalgia and satisfaction.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this delightful blend of flavors and textures.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth preparation process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Whisk
- Ladle
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and accommodating all ingredients.
- Whisk: Helps mix flour into the butter smoothly without lumps.
- Ladle: Perfect for serving the soup without mess.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 chopped sweet onion
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken stock
- 43.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes, with liquid
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon coarse salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Dumplings
- 11-ounce packet cheddar bay biscuit mix
- 2 tablespoons butter
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped sweet onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Roux
Stir in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Cook for another minute while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
Step 3: Add Stock and Tomatoes
Gradually pour in 3 cups of chicken stock while whisking. Then add the canned diced tomatoes along with their liquid. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Season the Soup
Add 1 teaspoon of sugar, 3/4 teaspoon coarse salt, and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes.
Step 5: Prepare Dumplings
While the soup simmers, prepare the cheddar bay dumpling mix according to package instructions using 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
Step 6: Add Dumplings to Soup
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture on top of the simmering soup. Cover and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy your Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings!
How to Serve Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
Serving Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this comforting dish.
Classic Pairing
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich – The gooey, melty cheese complements the soup perfectly.
- Crusty Bread – A slice of rustic bread is ideal for dipping into the rich tomato flavor.
Garnishing Options
- Fresh Basil – Add a sprinkle of fresh basil on top for a fragrant finish.
- Parmesan Cheese – Grated Parmesan adds a savory touch and enhances the flavors.
Special Occasion Serving
- Chic Soup Shooters – Serve small portions in shot glasses for an elegant appetizer at parties.
- Bread Bowls – Hollow out small loaves of bread and fill them with the soup for a fun twist.
How to Perfect Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
To make your Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings even better, follow these tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh tomatoes can enhance the flavor significantly compared to canned ones.
- Adjust Seasoning – Always taste and adjust salt, pepper, and sugar according to your preference.
- Blend for Smoothness – For a creamier texture, blend the soup until smooth before adding dumplings.
- Experiment with Spices – Adding spices like oregano or thyme can add depth to your soup’s flavor profile.
Best Side Dishes for Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
Pairing side dishes with your Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings can create a delightful meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing is refreshing next to warm soup.
- Stuffed Peppers – Flavorful stuffed peppers can serve as a hearty complement to the light soup.
- Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds a nutritious side that balances the meal.
- Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks – These make for an irresistible dipper alongside your tomato soup.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw can provide a crunchy contrast and brighten up the plate.
- Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges offer a satisfying crunch that pairs well with tomato flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your ingredients, especially canned tomatoes and spices. Fresh ingredients yield a better flavor.
- Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the onion in butter enhances the soup’s flavor. Don’t skip it if you want a rich taste.
- Not measuring correctly: Use precise measurements for your flour and stock. Incorrect amounts can affect the soup’s consistency.
- Overcooking the dumplings: Dumplings should be fluffy and tender. Follow the instructions carefully to avoid them becoming tough.
- Ignoring seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for a balanced flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
- It will keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
- Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power for 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir often until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make the Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings vegan?
You can substitute butter with olive oil and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. The cheddar bay biscuit mix may have non-vegan options, so check the ingredients.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes! For the best results, use about 2 pounds of fresh ripe tomatoes. Blanch and peel them before dicing and adding to your soup.
How can I customize my Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings?
Feel free to add herbs like basil or thyme for extra flavor. You can also mix in vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
What can I serve with this soup?
This delicious tomato soup pairs nicely with grilled cheese sandwiches or a fresh salad, making it perfect for lunch or dinner.
Final Thoughts
The Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different herbs or toppings based on your preferences. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite, so give it a try!
Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
Indulge in the comforting warmth of Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings, a delightful dish perfect for cozy nights or gatherings. This easy-to-make recipe offers a rich, flavorful tomato soup complemented by fluffy, cheesy dumplings that will impress your family and friends. With just 10 minutes of prep time and under an hour to cook, this dish is both quick and satisfying. Whether paired with grilled cheese sandwiches or enjoyed on its own, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 chopped sweet onion
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken stock
- 43.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon coarse salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 11-ounce packet cheddar bay biscuit mix
- 2 tablespoons butter (for dumplings)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in the flour and cook for an additional minute while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Gradually add chicken stock while whisking, then mix in canned tomatoes with their liquid.
- Season with sugar, salt, and pepper; bring to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes.
- Prepare cheddar bay dumpling mix according to package instructions using melted butter.
- Drop spoonfuls of dumpling mixture onto simmering soup, cover, and cook for another 10-12 minutes until fluffy.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: For a creamier texture, blend the soup before adding dumplings. Use fresh herbs like basil or thyme for extra flavor. To make it vegan, substitute butter with olive oil and use vegetable stock.
