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There’s nothing quite like the heartwarming embrace of a steaming bowl of soup on a chilly day. When I first discovered the magic of combining classic tomato soup with fluffy Cheddar Bay dumplings, it felt like a culinary hug. The rich, tangy flavor of the tomatoes, paired with the buttery, cheesy goodness of the dumplings, creates a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

I stumbled upon this delightful recipe during one of those weeks when takeout just wouldn’t cut it. Looking to elevate my home-cooked meals, I found myself experimenting with pantry staples—the result was nothing short of extraordinary! Perfect for busy weeknights, this Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings not only delivers big flavor but is also quick to prepare, making it a go-to in my kitchen.

So pull up a chair and get ready to warm your soul with this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that will chase away your fast-food cravings and bring a taste of homemade joy to your table!

Why is this Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings special?

Comforting on a chilly day, this dish wraps you in warmth with every spoonful. Flavor-packed ingredients—juicy tomatoes and cheesy dumplings—combine for a delightful taste experience. Quick to make, it fits seamlessly into your busy weeknights. Crowd-pleaser appeal ensures it’s a hit with family and friends. Ready to impress? Dive into this recipe and savor the magic of homemade soup!

Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings Ingredients

For the Soup

43.5 oz canned diced tomatoes – using undrained tomatoes enhances the soup’s richness.
1/4 tsp ground black pepper – adds a hint of warmth; adjust based on your heat preference.
3 tbsp all-purpose flour – helps thicken the soup, giving it a comforting texture.
1 chopped sweet onion – sweet onions bring a lovely depth of flavor to the base.
3 cups chicken stock – for a savory base; you can substitute with vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.
1 tsp sugar – balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.
2 tbsp butter – adds richness and a silky finish to your soup.
3/4 tsp coarse salt – enhances the overall flavor; taste and adjust as necessary.

For the Dumplings

1 (11 oz) packet cheddar bay biscuit mix – the star that brings cheesy goodness; it’s a quick shortcut to delightful dumplings!
2 tbsp butter (melted for brushing) – brushing melted butter adds a golden finish that’s irresistible.

Now, let’s gather our ingredients and get cooking, creating the Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings that promises to bring warmth and comfort to your table!

How to Make Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

Melt Butter: In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. This fragrant base is key to enhancing the flavors of the soup.
Sauté Onions: Stir in the chopped onion, cooking until it becomes translucent. This step takes about 5 minutes and will fill your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
Create Roux: Add in the flour, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux. This thickening agent gives your soup a wonderfully creamy texture.
Add Tomatoes and Stock: While stirring, slowly pour in the chicken broth and canned tomatoes. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and well combined—about 2 minutes.
Season Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Season with a pinch of sugar, salt, and black pepper to taste. The sweetness of the sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.
Blend for Smoothness: If you prefer a smooth soup, divide it into two portions and puree each in a blender until silky. Return the pureed soup to the pot and reheat gently.
Prepare Biscuits: Follow the package directions to prepare the Cheddar Bay biscuit mix. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the bubbling soup, using up all the batter for fluffy dumplings.
Cook Dumplings: Cover the pot and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and no longer doughy. This is when the magic happens!
Brush with Butter: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter and mix it with the seasoning packet. Brush this buttery mixture generously over the tops of the dumplings in the pot.
Serve Hot: Ladle the soup into bowls, making sure to include the delicious dumplings in each serving, and enjoy it nice and hot.

Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize this recipe to suit your taste buds!

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while simmering for a delightful heat that balances the soup’s sweetness.
Herbed Delight: Stir in fresh basil or oregano during the last few minutes of cooking for an aromatic twist that brightens every bite.
Creamy Version: Mix in a splash of heavy cream just before serving to create a rich, velvety texture that elevates the soup.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken stock with vegetable broth, and toss in some chopped kale or spinach for a refreshing green element.
Cheesy Love: Fold in extra shredded cheddar cheese into the soup right before serving for an indulgent, cheesy richness.
Whole Wheat Dumplings: Use a whole wheat or gluten-free biscuit mix instead of the traditional cheddar bay variety for a healthier alternative.
Lemon Zest: A whisper of lemon zest added at the end brightens the flavor profile, making each sip vibrant and refreshing.
Roasted Garlic: Incorporate roasted garlic cloves into the base for a deep, savory note that complements the tomatoes beautifully.

Explore these variations and make this comforting soup your own!

Expert Tips for the Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

Timely Roux: Stir the flour for just 1 minute to avoid burning. A properly made roux thickens your soup beautifully without an off taste.
Blend Alternatives: Prefer a chunky texture? Skip the blending step and leave the tomatoes whole for a rustic feel in the soup.
Perfect Dumplings: Don’t overcrowd the dumplings in the pot; they need space to expand while cooking to ensure fluffiness.
Adjust Seasoning: Remember to taste as you cook! Adjust the sugar, salt, and pepper to find the perfect balance of flavors in your Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings.
Garnish Wisely: For a pop of freshness, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving instead of during cooking.

What to Serve with Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings?

Nothing warms the heart quite like a delightful meal that brings everyone together at the table.

Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: The classic pairing of gooey cheese and buttery bread melds beautifully with the tangy soup, adding rich flavors.
Crispy Garlic Bread: This herb-infused bread provides a crunchy contrast, perfect for dipping into the comforting soup. Don’t forget to slather on some butter for extra flavor!
Crunchy Garden Salad: A fresh salad packed with vibrant vegetables adds a crisp, refreshing bite that balances the richness of the soup and dumplings. Try a light vinaigrette for an extra zing.
Savory Roasted Vegetables: The caramelized sweetness of roasted seasonal veggies elevates your meal with earthy flavors—think carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers.
Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons make a delicious side that cuts through the soup’s creaminess.
Herbed Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice seasoned with herbs complements the tomato soup while soaking up all those wonderful flavors.
Zesty Lemonade: A chilled glass of homemade lemonade provides a refreshing twist that perfectly offsets the warmth of the soup.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with freshly baked cookies that add a comforting touch, proving you can never go wrong with dessert!
Apple Crisp: Warm, cinnamon-spiced apples topped with oats create a delightful dessert with a sunny sweetness, a perfect companion to your cozy dinner.

Make Ahead Options

These Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the soup base—sautéing the onions, adding flour, and incorporating the chicken stock and diced tomatoes—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the soup in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the soup on the stove, bring it to a gentle simmer, and then add the prepared biscuit mix by dropping spoonfuls into the pot. Cook the dumplings as instructed until fluffy, brushing them with melted butter before serving. This method ensures your dish is just as delicious while saving you precious time for busy weeknights!

Storage Tips for Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

Fridge: Store your leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it to room temperature before sealing it up.

Freezer: Freeze the soup without dumplings in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best results.

Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through. Add a splash of chicken stock if the soup thickens too much during storage.

Dumpling Storage: Ideally, dumplings should be consumed fresh for the best texture. If you have leftovers, store them separately to maintain their fluffiness.

Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best ripe tomatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! For this Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings, using quality tomatoes is key. If you opt for fresh over canned, look for tomatoes that are vibrant red and slightly firm, with no dark spots or blemishes. They should have a fresh aroma and feel slightly heavy for their size, indicating ripeness and juiciness. If you’re reaching for canned, go for brands that use whole tomatoes packed in their own juice for richer flavor.

How should I store the leftover soup?
Very simply! Store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness. If you’re storing it for longer, consider freezing without the dumplings to maintain optimal texture.

Can I freeze this tomato soup?
Definitely! To freeze, portion the soup (without the dumplings) into airtight containers or freezer bags, allowing some space for it to expand. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove. Adding a little chicken stock while reheating helps revive the soup’s creaminess.

What should I do if my dumplings turn out dense or hard?
Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us! Dense dumplings can be due to overmixing the batter or cooking them too long. To ensure fluffy dumplings next time, mix until just combined—no prolonged stirring! Also, keep the cooking time in check; they should be tender yet cooked through after 15-20 minutes. If they don’t rise well, consider checking your baking mix’s expiration date, as expired ingredients can affect texture.

Are there any allergy concerns with this recipe?
Yes, it’s always good to be cautious! This recipe contains gluten from all-purpose flour and the cheddar bay biscuit mix, as well as dairy from the butter and cheese. For gluten-free options, consider using a gluten-free flour blend and a gluten-free biscuit mix. Always check the packaging for specific allergens and make adjustments based on your dietary needs!

Can I add other vegetables to the soup for added nutrition?
Absolutely! Get creative! You can sauté bell peppers, carrots, or celery along with the onions for a richer vegetable base. Just chop them finely and add them in before the roux step, cooking until they’re tender. This not only boosts nutrition but adds a lovely depth of flavor to your Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings!