This cozy tomato soup is rich and creamy, just like the kind you find at Panera! With fresh tomatoes and a smooth texture, it’s perfect for any day.
Pair it with some warm bread and you’ve got a winning combo! I can’t resist dipping my grilled cheese into it—who doesn’t love a classic pairing, right?
What I love most is how simple it is to whip up. Just a few ingredients and you’re ready to enjoy a bowl of comfort. Easy and tasty—my kind of soup!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds richness and flavor. For a different taste, try using coconut oil or butter. Both can enhance the overall flavor profile!
Onion: A medium onion gives the soup sweetness. If you’re in a pinch, shallots or leeks can also be wonderful substitutes.
Garlic: Fresh garlic provides great flavor, but garlic powder can work in a hurry. Use about 1/2 teaspoon if you’re out of fresh garlic.
Canned Crushed Tomatoes: These are perfect for a rich, smooth soup. If fresh tomatoes are available, use about 2 pounds, but make sure to peel and seed them first.
Vegetable Broth: Great for flavor, but chicken broth works just as well if you’re not vegetarian. Bone broth adds extra nutrition too!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter choice, half-and-half or even coconut milk can be lovely. Yogurt can add creaminess with a tang if you’re feeling adventurous!
How Do I Make Sure My Soup is Smooth and Creamy?
For a silky texture, puree your soup properly. If using an immersion blender, make sure to move it around to blend everything smoothly. If using a regular blender, blend in batches but be cautious with hot liquids.
- Let the soup cool slightly before transferring to a blender to avoid splattering.
- Blend until smooth, then return it to the pot and stir in the cream.
Warming it after blending helps meld all the flavors together. Just remember not to boil it after adding cream, as it can cause separation.
Easy Panera Bread Style Tomato Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes (or tomato puree)
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup milk (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Croutons for garnish
- Grated mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil leaf for garnish (optional)
Estimated Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making a total of about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. This helps develop a flavorful base.
2. Add Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot. Cook for an additional minute, stirring often to make sure the garlic doesn’t burn. You want the garlic to smell amazing and fragrant!
3. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth, stirring well to mix everything together. This is where the soup starts to come together!
4. Season the Soup:
Add the sugar, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering time helps all the flavors meld beautifully.
5. Blend Until Smooth:
Remove the pot from heat, and using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until creamy!
6. Add the Cream:
Return the pureed soup to low heat and stir in the heavy cream and milk (if using). Warm through gently but avoid boiling to keep the cream nice and smooth.
7. Final Seasoning:
Take a taste and adjust any seasoning if needed. You can add a pinch more salt or pepper based on your preference!
8. Serve Hot:
Serve your delicious tomato soup hot! Top with croutons, a sprinkle of grated cheese, and a fresh basil leaf for garnish. Enjoy every comforting spoon!
Enjoy this creamy, flavorful tomato soup reminiscent of Panera Bread’s classic!
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! You can use about 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes instead of canned. Make sure to peel and seed them beforehand for a smoother texture.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! You can substitute it with half-and-half or even whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut milk or almond milk for a different flavor experience.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Soup?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Just chop them small and sauté them along with the onions at the beginning.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in a covered bowl for a quick warm-up!
