This Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a classic favorite right at home. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this soup is perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s quick to prepare and pairs wonderfully with a grilled cheese sandwich, making it an ideal comfort food option for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The use of San Marzano tomatoes and fresh basil ensures each bowl is packed with delicious taste.
- Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair it with your favorite sandwich for a hearty meal.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or add more herbs to suit your taste preferences.
- Family-Friendly: This creamy tomato soup is a hit with both kids and adults alike!
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make cooking this Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe even easier. Below are the essential tools you’ll need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Heavy-bottomed pot (like a Dutch oven)
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Immersion blender (or regular blender)
Importance of Each Tool
- Heavy-bottomed pot: Ensures even heating, preventing the soup from burning on the bottom.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions and garlic quick and safe.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting ingredients efficiently.
- Immersion blender: Allows you to puree the soup directly in the pot, reducing cleanup time.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 large yellow onion (sliced)
- 2 (28 oz) cans San Marzano peeled tomatoes (do not drain)
- 1 cup chicken stock (or vegetable stock)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
For Creaminess and Flavor
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (or half and half)
- 8 large fresh basil leaves (roughly chopped)
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Optional Additions
- 1/3 cup shredded parmesan cheese (optional)
- Croutons (optional garnish)
How to Make Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally until translucent, approximately 8 minutes.
Step 2: Combine Tomatoes and Stock
Add the San Marzano peeled tomatoes along with their juice, chicken stock, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a low simmer. Allow it to cook uncovered for about 12 minutes or until slightly thickened.
Step 3: Add Cream and Seasonings
Stir in heavy cream, chopped basil leaves, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, along with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine all flavors.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth without any large chunks left. If using a regular blender, take care when blending hot liquids; cover with a kitchen towel to prevent splatters.
Step 5: Serve Hot
Stir in optional parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot topped with croutons for added crunch! Enjoy your homemade Copycat Panera Tomato Soup!
How to Serve Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe
This Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe pairs wonderfully with various dishes and garnishes that elevate the overall experience. Here are some creative serving ideas to enjoy this delicious soup.
With Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- Pair your soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal. The gooey cheese complements the creamy tomato soup perfectly.
Croutons and Fresh Basil
- Top your soup with crunchy croutons and freshly chopped basil. This adds a delightful texture and enhances the flavor profile.
Drizzle of Olive Oil
- A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top of the soup adds richness and depth to the taste. It’s simple yet effective.
Serve with a Side Salad
- A fresh side salad can balance the meal. Consider a mixed greens salad with vinaigrette to keep it light and refreshing.
Accompanying Breadsticks
- Soft breadsticks not only add to the meal but also provide something to dip into your flavorful soup.
How to Perfect Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe
To make this Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe even more delicious, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic, onions, and herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
- Control Consistency: Adjust the thickness by adding more chicken stock or pureeing longer based on your texture preference.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add additional spices like thyme or parsley for an extra layer of flavor.
- Let it Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer a bit longer can deepen the flavors, making it even tastier.
- Garnish Creatively: Explore different toppings such as crumbled feta cheese or a dollop of pesto for unique variations.
Best Side Dishes for Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe can enhance your meal’s enjoyment. Here are some fantastic options:
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
A classic choice that provides a satisfying crunch paired with gooey melted cheese.Caesar Salad
Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons create a delightful contrast in textures.Cheesy Garlic Bread
Flavorful garlic butter slathered on bread makes for an irresistible dipping option in your soup.Vegetable Platter
Raw veggies such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers offer a healthy crunch alongside the creamy soup.Stuffed Peppers
Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices make for a hearty side that complements the tomato flavor well.Cornbread Muffins
Sweet cornbread muffins add a touch of sweetness that balances the acidity of tomato soup beautifully.Minestrone Soup
A smaller serving of minestrone provides variety while keeping within the comforting theme of warm soups.Potato Wedges
Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs can be an excellent accompaniment for dipping into the soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making this Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome.
Using Regular Tomatoes: Using standard tomatoes instead of San Marzano can lead to a less rich flavor. Opt for San Marzano for a truly authentic taste.
Overcooking the Garlic: Cooking garlic too long can cause it to burn and become bitter. Sauté it just until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Skipping the Sugar: Not adding sugar can leave the soup tasting too acidic. A tablespoon helps balance the flavors beautifully.
Not Blending Enough: If you don’t blend the soup enough, it may have large chunks that disrupt the creamy texture. Blend until smooth for the best results.
Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season properly can make your soup bland. Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving for maximum flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps well for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to an oven-safe dish and heat for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses some common questions regarding the Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe.
Can I use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock?
Yes! You can substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock for a delicious plant-based option without compromising flavor.
What should I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs perfectly with grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread for dipping.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative to keep it creamy without dairy.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add diced carrots or bell peppers when sautéing the onion for extra nutrition and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly comforting. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it perfect for any meal or cozy night in. Don’t hesitate to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices!
Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe
Indulge in the comforting warmth of this Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe, which brings the classic flavors of a beloved favorite right to your kitchen. In just 30 minutes, you can create a rich and creamy tomato soup that’s perfect for any meal, especially when paired with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich. This easy-to-follow recipe features San Marzano tomatoes and fresh basil to elevate the taste, making it a delightful option for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Customize it with your choice of spices and enjoy its versatility as a standalone dish or alongside your favorite sides.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 large yellow onion (sliced)
- 2 (28 oz) cans San Marzano peeled tomatoes (do not drain)
- 1 cup chicken stock (or vegetable stock)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (or dairy-free alternative)
- 8 large fresh basil leaves (roughly chopped)
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant, then add sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 8 minutes.
- Stir in San Marzano tomatoes (with juice), chicken stock, and sugar. Bring to a low simmer and cook uncovered for approximately 12 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add heavy cream, chopped basil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Blend the soup using an immersion blender until smooth.
- Serve hot, garnished with optional croutons or parmesan cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg