Introduction to Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s the best tomato soup with cheddar bay dumplings. Picture this: a chilly evening, you’re craving something hearty yet simple. This recipe wraps you in a cozy embrace, making it the perfect choice for busy days or moments when you want to impress your family. It’s quick to whip up, and the fluffy dumplings elevate the experience. I promise, this dish will make you feel like a culinary superstar, even on days when time is not on your side!
Why You’ll Love This Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
This best tomato soup with cheddar bay dumplings is everything you want in a meal—quick, delicious, and comforting. It comes together in just 45 minutes, perfect for those busy evenings. The savory depth of the tomato soup paired with the cheesy, fluffy dumplings creates a meal that satisfies both heart and taste buds. Trust me, this recipe will become your go-to dish when you need something hearty but don’t have much time.
Ingredients for Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
To create the best tomato soup with cheddar bay dumplings, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together seamlessly. Here’s a quick look at what you’ll need:
- Butter: A rich base to sauté your onion and add flavor to the soup.
- Chopped sweet onion: This adds a natural sweetness and depth to the soup. You can substitute with shallots if you prefer.
- All-purpose flour: Essential for creating a roux that thickens the soup. Feel free to use gluten-free flour for a GF version!
- Chicken stock: Offers robust flavor; you can switch to vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Canned diced tomatoes: The star of the show! Look for high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Sugar: Just a pinch balances the acidity from the tomatoes, enhancing their natural sweetness.
- Coarse salt and ground black pepper: Simple seasonings to elevate the overall taste. Adjust to your liking!
- Cheddar bay biscuit mix: This is what makes the dumplings fluffy and cheesy. You can even try making your own mix if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Butter for sauce: Added at the end for richness. It’s totally worth it!
Keep in mind, exact measurements can be found at the bottom of this article, making it easy to print for your next cooking adventure!
How to Make Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. The aroma of butter melting is simply irresistible! Once it’s bubbly, add in the chopped sweet onion. Cook it until the onion turns translucent, about 5-7 minutes. The onion will soften and sweeten, adding depth to your best tomato soup with cheddar bay dumplings. Remember to stir occasionally, so nothing sticks or burns. This base is where the magic begins!
Step 2: Create the Roux
Next, sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the cooked onion. Cook for about a minute while stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which is key in thickening our soup. Keep an eye on the color; you want it to stay light. You can adjust the heat if it seems like it’s cooking too fast. The smell will be nutty, hinting at all the flavor that’s building. Trust me, this is where the heart of your soup starts!
Step 3: Combine with Chicken Stock and Tomatoes
Now comes the fun part! Slowly pour in the chicken stock while continuing to stir. The mixture will begin to thicken, creating a lovely foundation. Then, add in the canned diced tomatoes along with their liquid. This is where your soup gets its vibrant flavor and color! Keep stirring until everything is smooth and well combined. Bring it to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Season the Soup
It’s time to season your delicious concoction! Add a teaspoon of sugar to enhance the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. Then, sprinkle in the coarse salt and ground black pepper to taste. Give it a good stir and taste the soup; adjust the seasoning to your preference. Remember, this is your soup! Feel free to add a bit more or less based on your family’s tastes.
Step 5: Blend if Desired
If you like a smooth soup, this step is for you! Carefully divide the soup into two portions and blend each in a blender until silky. Just be cautious; hot soup can splash. If you prefer a chunky texture, then skip this step. You’ll still enjoy a hearty and comforting best tomato soup with cheddar bay dumplings!
Step 6: Cook the Cheddar Bay Dumplings
Now it’s time for the cheddar bay dumplings to shine! Prepare the biscuit mix according to the package directions. Once mixed, drop spoonfuls of the batter right into the simmering soup. Cover the pot and let it cook for 15-20 minutes. The dumplings will rise and become fluffy, a beautiful sight to behold! Just don’t peek too often—let them steam!
Step 7: Finishing Touches
As your dumplings steam to perfection, melt the additional butter in a small bowl and mix it with the seasoning packet. This will create a lovely butter sauce to drizzle over your soup. Once the dumplings are ready, serve the soup piping hot, drizzled with that rich, buttery goodness. It’s all about the final touches that make the meal unforgettable!
Tips for Success
- Always taste as you go; adjusting seasonings can elevate the flavor.
- For a creamier soup, consider adding a splash of heavy cream right before serving.
- If using fresh tomatoes, roast them beforehand for deeper flavor.
- Serve your best tomato soup with cheddar bay dumplings with crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Don’t rush the dumpling cooking time; patience ensures they’re fluffy!
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: A Dutch oven works great, but any heavy-bottom pot will do.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot.
- Blender: An immersion blender is handy, but a regular blender works too!
- Baking sheet: If you choose to make your own dumpling mix later on.
Variations
- Add roasted garlic for an aromatic twist. It complements the tomato beautifully!
- Swap in sun-dried tomatoes for a richer, tangy flavor.
- For a herbaceous touch, mix in fresh basil or oregano just before serving.
- Use plant-based butter and vegan cheddar for a vegan-friendly meal.
- Add a splash of cream or milk for an even creamier texture in your soup!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a simple side salad dressed in vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Serve with crusty garlic bread or grilled cheese sandwiches for a nostalgic touch.
- Enjoy with a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water to refresh your palate.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for a vibrant presentation!
FAQs about Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
Can I freeze the best tomato soup with cheddar bay dumplings? Absolutely! You can freeze the soup; however, the dumplings may change texture upon thawing. I recommend storing them separately for best results. Just reheat on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy!
What if I don’t have cheddar bay biscuit mix? No worries! You can make your own biscuit mix or use any fluffy biscuit recipe. Just ensure that it has some cheese to get that delicious cheesy flavor in your dumplings!
How do I know when the dumplings are cooked? The dumplings should be fluffy and not doughy in the center. Cover and cook them for about 15-20 minutes, then check with a toothpick—if it comes out clean, they’re ready to go!
Can I make this soup vegetarian? Yes, simply substitute the chicken stock with vegetable broth. This keeps the recipe flavorful while catering to vegetarian diets.
Is it possible to add extra vegetables? For sure! Feel free to toss in some carrots, spinach, or diced bell peppers along with the onions. This not only adds more nutrition but also enhances the overall flavor.
Final Thoughts
Making the best tomato soup with cheddar bay dumplings is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories. The comforting aroma wafting through your kitchen brings warmth to chilly days, while each bite wraps you in a savory hug. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing it with loved ones, this recipe is bound to spark joy and conversation around the dinner table. Embrace the simplicity and satisfaction that comes from nourishing yourself and your family. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a cherished staple in your home cooking repertoire!
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Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings for You!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting bowl of rich tomato soup paired with fluffy cheddar bay dumplings, perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
- 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
- 11-ounce packet cheddar bay biscuit mix
- 2 tablespoons butter for sauce
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in chopped onion and cook until the onion is translucent.
- Add in flour and cook, stirring constantly for 1 minute to form a roux.
- While stirring, slowly pour in chicken broth and canned tomatoes.
- Continue to stir until the mixture is smooth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Season with a pinch of sugar, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- If you prefer a smooth soup, divide the soup into two portions and puree each portion separately in a blender until smooth.
- Return the pureed soup to the pot and bring it back up to a simmer.
- Prepare the biscuit mix according to the package directions.
- Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit batter into the simmering soup until all the batter is used.
- Cover the pot and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are no longer doughy.
- Prepare the butter sauce by melting 2 tablespoons of butter and mixing it with the seasoning packet provided.
Notes
- For a spicier soup, consider adding red pepper flakes.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This soup can be frozen; however, the dumplings may change texture after freezing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
