Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, you’ve come to the right place! My Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings is a special recipe that has been a favorite in my family for years. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet comforting, or for those chilly days when all you need is a bowl of warmth. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it for every gathering!

This recipe combines the rich flavors of tomatoes with delightful cheddar bay dumplings that are so fluffy and delicious. It’s a dish that brings everyone together, whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive occasion. Let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal on the table in less than an hour!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting flavors of tomato soup paired with cheesy dumplings.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the soup ahead of time and just add the dumplings when you’re ready to serve.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple pantry staples, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or served alongside salads or sandwiches.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how simple these ingredients are! Each one plays a vital role in creating the comforting flavors of this dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Soup

• 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

This recipe serves about 4 people and takes only 40 minutes from start to finish!

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Add Some Spice: If you like a bit of heat, try adding red pepper flakes to the soup for an extra kick.
• Herb It Up: Fresh basil or oregano can bring an aromatic twist to your tomato soup. Just add them while simmering!
• Go Vegetarian: Swap out chicken stock for vegetable stock to make this dish plant-based friendly.
• Cheesy Extras: Sprinkle some extra cheese on top of your dumplings before baking for even cheesier goodness!

How to Make Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped sweet onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step is important because sautéing brings out the natural sweetness of the onion, which adds depth to your soup.

Step 2: Create Your Base

Next, stir in the flour and cook for another minute to create a roux. This will help thicken your soup later on! Gradually whisk in the chicken stock, ensuring there are no lumps. Once combined, add in your canned diced tomatoes along with their juices.

Step 3: Season It Up

Add sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. Let everything simmer together for about 20 minutes so all those lovely flavors meld beautifully. Don’t forget to stir occasionally!

Step 4: Prepare the Dumplings

While your soup simmers away, it’s time to whip up those cheddar bay dumplings! In a separate bowl, combine the cheddar bay biscuit mix with melted butter according to package instructions.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your soup has finished simmering, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture right into the bubbling soup. Cover and let them steam for about 10 minutes until they’re fluffy and cooked through.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle generous portions into bowls and dig in! The combination of rich tomato soup with soft cheddar bay dumplings is sure to become your new favorite comfort food.

Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful dish—it’s all about bringing warmth and joy to your table!

Pro Tips for Making Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

Cooking should be a joyful experience, and these tips will help you create the best tomato soup with cheddar bay dumplings without a hitch!

• Use fresh ingredients – Whenever possible, opt for fresh herbs or vegetables. They add a vibrant flavor that canned or dried alternatives simply can’t match.

• Adjust seasoning to taste – Everyone’s palate is different! Taste your soup before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, or sugar to suit your preferences.

• Don’t skip the sugar – A teaspoon of sugar may seem unorthodox in savory dishes, but it balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully, enhancing their natural sweetness.

• Let the soup simmer – Allowing the soup to simmer for a little longer can deepen its flavors. If time permits, let it cook for an extra 10-15 minutes after adding the tomatoes.

• Experiment with spices – Feel free to add a pinch of herbs like basil or oregano for an extra layer of flavor. They pair wonderfully with tomatoes!

How to Serve Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

When it’s time to serve up this delicious dish, presentation matters! Here are some ideas on how to make your meal visually appealing and satisfying.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves – A few sprigs of fresh basil on top not only look stunning but also complement the flavors beautifully.
• Shredded cheese – Adding a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top allows it to melt slightly into the warm soup, creating a creamy texture.
• Cracked black pepper – A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper adds visual appeal and enhances flavor without overpowering the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread – Warm slices of garlic bread are perfect for dipping into soup and add a comforting touch to your meal.
• Mixed greens salad – A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
• Roasted vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a hearty side that complements the soup while adding color and nutrients.
• Grilled cheese sandwiches – You can never go wrong with classic grilled cheese! The melty goodness pairs perfectly with tomato soup for a nostalgic combo.

Enjoy your cooking journey and remember that every bowl is filled with warmth and love! Happy eating!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep any dumplings separate if you want them to maintain their texture.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your containers!

Reheating

• Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If using a microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making the Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings.

Can I make this Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply substitute chicken stock with vegetable broth, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version!

How do I store leftovers of the Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings?

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep dumplings separate for best texture.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! About 10-12 ripe tomatoes should work well; just chop them and add them to your pot along with some extra liquid.

What can I serve with this tomato soup?

This hearty tomato soup pairs wonderfully with a simple salad or a slice of crusty bread.

Are there alternatives to cheddar bay biscuit mix?

You can use any biscuit mix available that fits your dietary preferences or even make homemade drop biscuits using flour, baking powder, and shredded cheese.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings brings warmth and comfort to your kitchen! It’s such a delightful dish that’s perfect for cozy nights or meal prep. Enjoy making it and savor every spoonful. Happy cooking, friends!