Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe

This Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe is a family favorite that brings comfort to any meal. Perfect for chilly days or quick lunches, this easy homemade soup features vibrant San Marzano tomatoes and can be ready in just 30 minutes. Serve it alongside a warm grilled cheese sandwich for a delightful experience that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The use of San Marzano tomatoes gives this soup a deep, rich flavor that elevates it above the rest.
• Versatile Pairing: Enjoy it on its own or with your favorite sides like grilled cheese or fresh bread.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings for a personal touch.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this soup is both satisfying and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe, you will need a few essential tools that simplify the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed pot (like a Dutch oven)
• Immersion blender (or regular blender)
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottomed pot: This tool distributes heat evenly, preventing the soup from scorching while cooking.
• Immersion blender: Allows you to puree the soup directly in the pot for less mess and easy cleanup.

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

Seasoning and Garnish

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 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 for approximately 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until translucent.

Step 2: Simmer the Tomatoes

• Pour in the San Marzano peeled tomatoes along with their juice, chicken stock, and sugar.
• Bring the mixture to a low simmer.
• Cook uncovered for about 12 minutes or until the soup has thickened.

Step 3: Add Cream and Herbs

• Stir in the heavy cream, chopped basil leaves, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Blend Until Smooth

Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until there are no large chunks left. If using a regular blender:
– Carefully transfer the hot soup in batches.
– Be cautious of splatters; cover with a kitchen towel if needed.

Step 5: Final Touches and Serve

• Stir in shredded parmesan cheese if desired.
• Serve hot topped with croutons as garnish for an extra crunch!

Enjoy your homemade Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe!

How to Serve Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe

This Copycat Panera Tomato Soup is creamy, comforting, and pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that enhance your soup experience.

With Grilled Cheese Sandwich

• A classic pairing that never fails! Serve your tomato soup with a big, buttery grilled cheese sandwich for that nostalgic comfort food experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the rich and flavorful soup. It adds texture and makes every bite satisfying.

With Salad

• A light salad, such as a simple mixed greens salad or Caesar salad, can balance the richness of the soup, making for a refreshing meal option.

With Croutons

• Top your bowl of tomato soup with crunchy croutons for added texture. They absorb the flavors while providing a delightful crunch.

With Basil Pesto Drizzle

• A drizzle of basil pesto on top can elevate the flavor profile of your soup. The fresh basil complements the tomatoes beautifully!

How to Perfect Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe

Achieving the perfect consistency and flavor in your tomato soup is simple with these helpful tips.

• Use quality tomatoes: Opt for San Marzano peeled tomatoes for their rich flavor and sweetness, which will greatly enhance your soup’s taste.
• Season properly: Adjust salt and pepper to taste throughout the cooking process for balanced seasoning.
• Blend thoroughly: Ensure you blend until smooth to achieve that creamy texture characteristic of restaurant-quality tomato soup.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add additional herbs like thyme or parsley to customize the flavor to your liking.
• Adjust creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with this Copycat Panera Tomato Soup enhances your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Cheese
   A classic combination; this melty sandwich complements the soup’s richness perfectly.

2. Garlic Bread
   Crispy garlic bread provides an aromatic crunch that pairs well with the smooth tomato flavors.

3. Caesar Salad
   This hearty salad adds crisp romaine and creamy dressing, balancing out the warm soup nicely.

4. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a vibrant dish that enhances the Italian flavors of the soup.

5. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables add nutrition and depth while contrasting nicely with the creamy texture of the soup.

6. Stuffed Peppers
   For something more filling, stuffed peppers offer a savory complement without overpowering the tomato flavor.

7. Pasta Salad
   A cold pasta salad provides a refreshing contrast to hot soup while adding extra carbohydrates for fullness.

8. Crispy Tortilla Chips
   Serve some crispy tortilla chips on the side for a fun crunch that will make dipping even more enjoyable!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Skipping the sautéing step: Not sautéing the garlic and onion can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always cook these ingredients until fragrant and translucent.
• Using low-quality tomatoes: Choosing inferior canned tomatoes will affect the soup’s taste. Opt for San Marzano tomatoes for the best results.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust salt, pepper, or sugar can spoil your soup. Always season to your liking before serving.
• Blending too aggressively: Over-blending can make the soup too thin or lead to splatter. Blend just until smooth; a few small chunks can add texture.
• Neglecting garnishes: Serving without toppings makes the soup less appealing. Consider adding croutons or fresh basil for extra flavor and presentation.
• Forgetting to store properly: Improper storage can spoil your soup quickly. Always use airtight containers and label them with dates.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup may expand when frozen.

Reheating Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Pour into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute increments until hot, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes! You can use fresh tomatoes; just roast them first for added flavor. Use about 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes for this recipe.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or coconut cream as alternatives for heavy cream while still achieving a creamy texture.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or any non-dairy cream alternative, and omit Parmesan cheese.

Is this Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe spicy?

It has a hint of spice from crushed red pepper flakes. You can adjust the amount according to your preference or omit it entirely.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add diced carrots, bell peppers, or even spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe is not only quick and easy but also deliciously comforting. It pairs perfectly with grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread. Customize it by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables to suit your tastes!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

This Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe is the perfect solution for chilly days or quick lunches when you crave something comforting and delicious. Made with vibrant San Marzano tomatoes, this creamy soup can be prepared in just 30 minutes, allowing you to bring restaurant-quality flavors right into your home. The rich tomato base is complemented by aromatic garlic and onion, fresh basil, and a touch of cream, resulting in a velvety texture that pairs beautifully with grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread. Customize it with your favorite spices or toppings to make it truly yours!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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 coconut milk for dairy-free)
• 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)
• Croutons (optional garnish)

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds, then add sliced onion and cook until translucent (about 8 minutes).
2. Pour in San Marzano tomatoes, chicken stock, and sugar. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 12 minutes.
3. Stir in heavy cream, chopped basil, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
5. Serve hot, garnished with croutons if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 25mg