Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings is a delicious and comforting dish that warms the soul. Perfect for weeknight meals or special gatherings, this recipe combines the rich flavors of tomatoes and cheddar with fluffy dumplings. The ease of preparation makes it suitable for any occasion, ensuring a delightful experience whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty meal ready in under an hour.
• Versatile Dish: This tomato soup pairs wonderfully with various sides or can stand alone as a comforting meal.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of sweet onions and savory chicken stock enhances the rich tomato base, delivering deep flavor in every spoonful.
• Family Friendly: Kids love the cheesy dumplings, making it an ideal choice for family dinners.
• Meal Prepping Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers for easy lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and ensure perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering the soup and allows enough space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps blend flour into the butter smoothly, preventing lumps in your soup base.

Ingredients

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

How to Make Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

Step 1: Sauté the Onion

In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped sweet onion, stirring frequently until softened and translucent.

Step 2: Create the Base

Once the onions are ready, sprinkle in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously for about 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste.

Step 3: Add Stock and Tomatoes

Gradually pour in 3 cups of chicken stock, whisking to combine. Then add in 43.5 ounces of canned diced tomatoes, including their liquid. Stir well.

Step 4: Season

Mix in 1 teaspoon of sugar, 3/4 teaspoon coarse salt, and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer while you prepare the dumplings.

Step 5: Prepare Dumplings

In a bowl, combine the contents of an 11-ounce packet of cheddar bay biscuit mix with just enough water as indicated on the package instructions. Fold in 2 tablespoons of melted butter.

Step 6: Cook Dumplings

Drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter onto the simmering soup. Cover the pot and cook for about 15 minutes or until dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.

Now you’re ready to serve this delightful Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings! Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

Serving Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings can elevate your dining experience. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering, these tips will enhance your presentation and enjoyment.

Serve with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish the soup with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Pair with a Side Salad

• A crisp garden salad complements the rich tomato soup, adding freshness and texture to your meal.

Offer Crusty Bread

• Serve warm, crusty bread on the side for dipping into the soup; it’s perfect for soaking up every last drop.

Top with Cheese

• Grate some extra cheddar cheese over the dumplings just before serving for added richness and flavor.

How to Perfect Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

Perfecting your Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings is all about attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to make your dish shine.

• Use quality tomatoes: Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes; they make a significant difference in flavor.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper to suit your palate.
• Make it creamy: For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end.
• Experiment with spices: Add red pepper flakes for heat or Italian seasoning for an aromatic twist.

Best Side Dishes for Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

Pairing side dishes with your tomato soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the flavorful soup.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and flavor that balances the richness of the soup.
3. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: The gooeyness of grilled cheese pairs beautifully with tomato soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and nutrients to your table.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers can serve as a hearty complement to the light soup.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges offer a satisfying crunch alongside the soft dumplings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the onion: Not using enough onion can lead to a bland soup. Always sauté your onions until they’re translucent for maximum flavor.
• Ignoring the seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can result in a flat dish. Make sure to add salt and pepper gradually and taste as you go.
• Overmixing dumplings: Overmixing the cheddar bay biscuit mix can lead to tough dumplings. Mix just until combined for light and fluffy results.
• Not using high-quality tomatoes: Using low-quality canned tomatoes can compromise the soup’s flavor. Opt for premium diced tomatoes for the best taste.
• Forgetting about garnishes: Neglecting fresh herbs or toppings may lessen presentation and flavor. Consider adding chopped parsley or chives before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

• Freeze the soup without dumplings for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers, leaving space at the top for expansion.

Reheating Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can replace canned tomatoes with fresh tomatoes. Use about 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes, peeled and diced.

What can I substitute for chicken stock?

You can use vegetable broth or homemade stock if you prefer a vegetarian option without compromising flavor.

How do I make the dumplings fluffier?

To achieve fluffier dumplings, avoid overmixing and let them rest for a few minutes before adding them to the soup.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers or experiment with different cheeses in your dumplings.

Final Thoughts

The Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or serve it alongside a crisp salad. Don’t hesitate to give this delightful dish a try—you’ll love its rich flavors!