There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of creamy tomato soup, especially when it’s paired with fluffy cheddar bay dumplings. This dish is like a cozy hug on a chilly day, and it’s one of my all-time favorites! The rich and velvety soup, combined with the cheesy, tender dumplings, creates a perfect harmony that warms you from the inside out. My kids absolutely love it, and it’s become a staple in our home during colder months. Trust me, once you dip those dumplings into the savory tomato goodness, you’ll be hooked! This recipe is not just about nourishment; it’s about gathering around the table and enjoying the simple joys of a homemade meal together.
Ingredients List
- 2 cans of diced tomatoes (28 oz each) – make sure they’re fire-roasted for that extra depth of flavor!
- 1 cup vegetable broth – homemade is best, but store-bought works just fine.
- 1 onion, chopped – I like using a sweet onion for a milder taste.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic is a game changer; it adds such a lovely aroma!
- 1 teaspoon sugar – this balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon salt – add a little more or less based on your taste preference.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground if you can; it elevates the flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil – or feel free to use fresh if you have it on hand!
- 1/2 cup heavy cream – this is what gives the soup that creamy, dreamy finish.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – for the dumplings; don’t sift it unless you want a denser texture.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder – this is key for light and fluffy dumplings!
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – adds a little extra kick to the dumplings.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese – use sharp cheddar for the best flavor punch!
- 1/4 cup butter, melted – this helps the dumplings stay rich and tender.
- 1/2 cup milk – whole milk is ideal, but you can substitute with whatever you have.
How to Prepare Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
Making the Tomato Soup
First things first, let’s get that soup going! In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they’re soft and fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes. You’ll love how it fills the kitchen with that delicious aroma! Next, add the two cans of diced tomatoes and the vegetable broth. Stir in the sugar, salt, black pepper, and dried basil. Bring it all to a gentle simmer and let it bubble away for about 20 minutes. This really allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully. Once it’s done simmering, grab your immersion blender (or a regular blender) and blend the soup until it’s nice and smooth. Then, stir in the heavy cream for that dreamy creaminess!
Preparing the Cheddar Bay Dumplings
While the soup is simmering, let’s whip up those cheddar bay dumplings! In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and shredded cheddar cheese. Give it a quick stir to mix the dry ingredients. Now, pour in the melted butter and milk, and mix it gently until everything is just combined. You’re looking for a thick, yet slightly sticky dough—don’t overmix! If it feels too dry, just add a splash more milk. This texture is key to fluffy dumplings!
Combining Soup and Dumplings
Now comes the fun part! Once your soup is bubbling away, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture right into the soup. Make sure to space them out a bit. Cover the pot with a lid and let them cook for about 15 minutes without lifting the lid. This is crucial! The steam helps the dumplings rise and become fluffy. You’ll know they’re ready when they’ve expanded and look light and airy. Serve it up hot, and enjoy the cozy goodness of this comforting dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation—this cozy dish comes together in just about 50 minutes!
- Comforting flavors that warm you up from the inside out; it’s like a hug in a bowl.
- Vegetarian-friendly, making it perfect for meatless meals or for everyone at the table.
- Fluffy cheddar bay dumplings that add a delightful texture and cheesy goodness to each bite.
- Rich, creamy tomato soup that’s both satisfying and delicious; it’s a classic for a reason!
- Easy to customize with fresh herbs or spices, so you can make it your own every time.
- Perfect for leftovers; the flavors intensify and it’s just as tasty the next day!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re ready to dive into making this scrumptious tomato soup with cheddar bay dumplings, here are some pro tips to ensure you nail it! First, don’t rush the sautéing of the onions and garlic; this step is crucial for building flavor, so let them soften and become aromatic.
If you want to enhance the richness, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a touch of red pepper flakes to the soup for a little kick. And remember, taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to your preference—everyone’s palate is different.
When mixing the dumpling dough, be careful not to overmix! This can lead to tough dumplings, and we definitely want them light and fluffy. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding fresh herbs like chives or parsley to the dumplings for an extra layer of flavor.
One common mistake is lifting the lid while the dumplings are cooking—resist the urge! Keeping the lid on helps them steam perfectly. Lastly, serve this dish hot to enjoy the full cozy experience. You’ll want to savor every warm, cheesy bite!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional information per serving of this delightful tomato soup with cheddar bay dumplings. Keep in mind that these numbers are estimates and can vary based on ingredient brands and specific measurements.
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 900mg
This hearty meal not only fills you up but also offers a satisfying balance of flavors and nutrients. Enjoy every spoonful, knowing you’re treating yourself to something delicious and nourishing!
FAQ Section
Can I store leftover tomato soup with cheddar bay dumplings?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be aware that the dumplings may lose their fluffy texture when reheated, but they’ll still be delicious!
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
You can definitely use fresh tomatoes! Just make sure to peel and chop about 6-8 medium tomatoes to equal the volume of the two cans. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly since fresh tomatoes can require a bit longer to break down.
What if I don’t have vegetable broth?
No worries! You can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth or even water in a pinch. Just keep in mind that the flavor might vary a bit, so season accordingly!
How can I make the soup spicier?
If you’re looking for a kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while the soup simmers. You can also toss in some diced jalapeños for an extra spicy touch!
Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?
While it’s best to cook the dumplings fresh for fluffiness, you can prepare the dumpling mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good stir before dropping it into the simmering soup!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover tomato soup with cheddar bay dumplings is super easy! Just transfer any uneaten soup to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Now, here’s the thing—while the soup will hold up nicely, the dumplings might lose some of their fluffiness upon reheating. But don’t worry, they’ll still taste delicious!
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, the best way to reheat them is gently on the stovetop. Pour the soup into a pot and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally to avoid any sticking. If the dumplings seem a bit dense, you can add a splash of milk or broth to help revive their texture. Heat until everything is warmed through, and give it a taste to see if it needs any extra seasoning.
If you prefer to use the microwave, just make sure to use a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it loosely with a microwave-safe lid or a paper towel to prevent splatters. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until it’s nice and hot. But I recommend the stovetop for the best results!
And remember, this dish is all about the cozy experience, so don’t rush it. Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl just like you did the first time!
Print
Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings: 5 Cozy Secrets
A creamy tomato soup served with fluffy cheddar bay dumplings.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cans of diced tomatoes (28 oz each)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup milk
Instructions
- In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, sugar, salt, pepper, and basil.
- Simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and blend until smooth.
- For dumplings, mix flour, baking powder, garlic powder, cheese, butter, and milk in a bowl.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture into the simmering soup.
- Cover and cook for 15 minutes until dumplings are fluffy.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for extra flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve hot for the best experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: tomato soup, cheddar bay dumplings