Why Make This Recipe
Hearty Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings is a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for any day of the week. It warms you up, fills you up, and brings a smile to your face. The rich flavors of the tomato soup, combined with creamy cheddar and fluffy dumplings, make this meal not just delicious but also a great option for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Plus, it’s easy to make and uses simple ingredients you may already have at home!
How to Make Hearty Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Directions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted.
- For the dumplings, in a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt. Stir in the milk and melted butter until just combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture into the simmering soup. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through.
- Serve hot, garnishing with extra cheese if desired.
How to Serve Hearty Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
Serve this hearty soup warm, in bowls, with a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese on top for added flavor. It pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh green salad if you want to add a little crunch to your meal. Enjoy it on a chilly evening or whenever you need a comforting dish!
How to Store Hearty Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
To store any leftovers, let the soup cool down completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. If freezing, it’s best to store the soup and dumplings separately to avoid them becoming too soft when reheated.
Tips to Make Hearty Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
- For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree the soup after simmering.
- Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving can enhance the flavor.
- If you prefer a bit of spice, consider adding red pepper flakes to the soup.
- Make sure not to overmix the dumpling batter; it’s okay if it’s a little lumpy.
Variation
You can switch up the cheese in the dumplings! Try using mozzarella or a blend of your favorite cheeses. You can also add chopped vegetables like spinach or corn to the soup for added nutrition and flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! Just peel and chop them, and you’ll need about 10-12 medium tomatoes to replace 1 can.
2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’re good to go.
3. How do I know when the dumplings are cooked?
The dumplings are cooked when they are fluffy and no longer doughy in the center. You can test one by cutting it in half; it should be pale and cooked through.