Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the soul, let me introduce you to my family’s go-to comfort dish: the Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings. This delightful recipe is cherished not just for its rich flavor but also for the way it brings everyone together around the dinner table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual gathering with friends, this soup is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to satisfy.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a bowl of happiness in no time. Imagine dipping fluffy, cheesy dumplings into a hearty tomato soup—it’s pure bliss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking, you’ll have dinner ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore this comforting bowl of goodness. It’s perfect for picky eaters!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the soup in advance and store it for busy nights—just reheat and enjoy!
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of sweet onions, canned tomatoes, and cheddar bay dumplings creates an irresistible flavor explosion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are. They come together beautifully to create a comforting bowl of tomato soup paired with scrumptious cheddar bay dumplings.

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

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with these variations that can cater to your taste buds or pantry staples.

• Add Veggies: Toss in some chopped spinach or zucchini to boost nutrition and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat if you like some zing in your soup!
• Herb It Up: Fresh basil or thyme can elevate the flavor profile and add freshness.
• Swap the Stock: Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian-friendly version.

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 they become translucent—this step infuses your soup with sweetness and depth.

Step 2: Create the Roux

Once your onions are soft, sprinkle in the flour. Stir continuously for about a minute to cook off that raw flour taste. This roux will help thicken your soup later on.

Step 3: Add the Stock and Tomatoes

Slowly pour in the chicken stock while stirring to combine everything smoothly. Next, add those beautiful canned diced tomatoes along with their juices. This is where your soup starts coming to life!

Step 4: Season It Up

Now it’s time to enhance those flavors! Stir in sugar, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes, allowing all those delicious flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Prepare the Dumplings

While your soup simmers away, preheat your oven according to package instructions for the cheddar bay biscuit mix. In a separate bowl, combine the mix with melted butter as per package directions until you have a soft dough ready for scooping.

Step 6: Bake Your Dumplings

Drop spoonfuls of dough right on top of your simmering soup (if you’re feeling adventurous) or place them on a baking sheet as directed on the package—either way works! Bake until golden brown and fluffy; this will take about 12-15 minutes.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once everything is ready, ladle that warm tomato soup into bowls topped with those heavenly cheddar bay dumplings. Serve hot, maybe even with some crusty bread on the side. Enjoy each comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and these tips will help you elevate your tomato soup experience!

• Use fresh herbs: Adding fresh basil or parsley just before serving can brighten the flavors of your soup, giving it a fresh and vibrant finish.
• Adjust the seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and feel free to tweak the salt and pepper to suit your palate. This ensures the soup is perfectly seasoned and enjoyable for everyone.
• Add a splash of cream: For extra richness, consider stirring in a little bit of plant-based cream or coconut milk just before serving. It adds a lovely velvety texture that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
• Don’t rush the dumplings: Make sure not to overwork the dumpling dough; mix until just combined for light, fluffy dumplings. This ensures they rise well while cooking.
• Serve hot: Enjoy this dish as soon as it’s ready! The warmth enhances the flavors of both the soup and dumplings, making it even more comforting.

How to Serve Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

Presentation plays a big role in enjoying our meals, so let’s make this tomato soup shine on your dinner table!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: A few leaves of fresh basil on top add a pop of color and an aromatic touch that complements the tomato base beautifully.
• Cracked black pepper: A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper not only looks appealing but also enhances the dish’s flavor profile.
• Vegan sour cream: A dollop of vegan sour cream can offer a creamy texture and tangy contrast that makes each bite even more delightful.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette serves as a refreshing counterpoint to the rich soup.
• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread slices are perfect for dipping into the soup while adding extra flavor. You can easily make them using plant-based butter and garlic powder spread on your favorite bread.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots bring earthy sweetness and complement the tanginess of the tomato soup wonderfully.
• Cheese Alternatives: Serve some plant-based cheese on the side for those who want an extra cheesy touch without any dairy.

Enjoy crafting this delicious meal, friends! Your kitchen will be filled with warmth and wonderful aromas that bring everyone together around the table. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it freeze beautifully, but it also tastes even better the next day. You’ll love having this comforting dish ready to go whenever you need a quick and satisfying meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for about 3-4 days.
• Make sure to let the soup cool down to room temperature before sealing it up.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely.
• Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just label your containers with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• If using a microwave, reheat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

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

Yes! You can substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan butter and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. The cheddar bay biscuit mix can also be replaced with a plant-based version available at many grocery stores.

How long does the Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings last in the fridge?

The soup will stay fresh for about 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just be sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving!

Can I add other vegetables to the tomato soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I make my tomato soup creamier?

For a creamier texture, you can blend part or all of the soup using an immersion blender. Alternatively, stir in a splash of coconut milk or your favorite plant-based cream just before serving.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings as much as I do! It’s a delightful combination of flavors that brings comfort and warmth to any table. Whether you’re preparing it for dinner tonight or stocking up your freezer for later, I’m sure you’ll find it becomes a go-to recipe. Happy cooking!