Creamy Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of creamy tomato soup, especially one that comes with delightful, cheesy dumplings. This recipe combines rich, velvety tomato flavors with fluffy cheddar bay dumplings that take this dish to another level. As someone who’s spent many cozy evenings perfecting this combo, I can assure you it’s a winner for family dinners or a simple treat on a chilly night.
Why Make This Recipe
- Unmatched Flavor: The combination of tangy tomatoes and savory cheddar creates a harmonious taste that’s both satisfying and comforting.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Tomatoes are packed with antioxidants and vitamins, making this dish a guilt-free indulgence.
- Quick and Easy: With a prep time of about 10 minutes and a cook time of just 30, this recipe fits perfectly into a busy weeknight schedule.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course, a side dish, or even a starter for a dinner party.
- Personal Touch: This recipe reminds me of my childhood when my mom would serve tomato soup on rainy days. It’s a nostalgic hug in a bowl!
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Cooking Method: Simmering and baking
My Experience Making This Recipe
Creating this creamy tomato soup and dumplings was a delightful journey. I experimented with different spices and found the perfect blend that enhances the tomato’s natural sweetness. My initial attempt was too watery, but I quickly learned to balance the liquid for a creamy consistency. Each batch gets better, and I now feel like a pro!
How to Make Creamy Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, and seasonings to simmer. Puree the soup until smooth, then stir in cream for the perfect creamy base. While the soup simmers, whip up the dumpling dough by combining cheese, herbs, and a few dry ingredients. You’ll bake the dumplings on top of the soup, allowing them to steam and soak up all that delicious flavor. The aroma will be irresistible!
Expert Tips for Success
- Choose Quality Tomatoes: Use high-quality canned tomatoes for a deeper flavor, like San Marzano or those labeled “whole peeled” for a better outcome.
- Don’t Rush the Sauté: Take your time to properly sauté the onions and garlic until they’re golden to unlock their sweetness.
- Adjust Consistency to Taste: If the soup is too thick, add more broth. If too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Use fresh basil over dried for a brighter flavor and vibrant aroma.
- Dough Consistency is Key: The dumpling dough should be sticky but manageable; don’t overwork it, or they’ll become tough!
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
Serve the soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a side of crusty artisan bread or a fresh green salad to round out the meal. For special occasions, presentation is key—consider serving in rustic bread bowls for a charming touch. Enjoy it with a glass of crisp white wine for adult gatherings.
Storage and Reheating Guide
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers, where it will keep for up to 3 months. When reheating, use the stovetop on low heat for the best results, adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain a creamy texture. Reheat dumplings separately to keep them fluffy.
Recipe Variations
- Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use vegan cheese for the dumplings.
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour to make the dumplings.
- Herb Infusion: For a different flavor profile, experiment with herbs like thyme or dill in the dumpling mix.
- Spicy Upgrade: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the soup for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Highlights
This creamy tomato soup delivers an excellent source of vitamins C and K, thanks to the tomatoes. When paired with cheddar bay dumplings, you also get protein from the cheese, enhancing the dish’s satiety. Keep portion sizes to about 1 to 1.5 cups for a balanced meal, keeping in mind potential allergens like dairy and gluten.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Soup is Too Sour: If the soup tastes overly acidic, add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
- Dumplings Are Dense: Ensure you don’t overmix the dough; a gentle hand will keep them fluffy and light.
- Lumpy Soup: If you end up with a lumpy consistency, blend the soup again using an immersion blender for a smooth finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Absolutely! Use about 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes, peeled and diced, and simmer longer to develop flavors.
- How can I make the soup spicier? Incorporate diced jalapeños or hot sauce as you sauté the onions for an added kick.
- What can I use instead of cream? For a lighter option, use whole milk or a non-dairy alternative such as cashew milk or oat milk.
- Can I store the dumplings separately? Yes, that’s a great idea! They’ll stay fresher and fluffier if stored apart and added just before serving.
Creamy Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
A warm and comforting creamy tomato soup paired with fluffy cheddar bay dumplings, perfect for chilly nights.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (like parsley or basil)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant and golden.
- Add crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Puree the soup using an immersion blender until smooth.
- Stir in the heavy cream until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, cheddar cheese, baking powder, and herbs. Mix in enough water to form a sticky dough.
- Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough onto the simmering soup.
- Cover and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Notes
Serve with crusty artisan bread or in rustic bread bowls for a charming presentation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering and baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg