Last Updated on March 18, 2025
Imagine a chilly evening, a soft blanket on your lap, and a bowl of Panera’s tomato soup in your hands. To elevate this comforting dish, you need the right companions. Picture crispy grilled cheese sandwiches, tart croutons, and even a side of fresh garden salad.
These pairings don’t just complement the soup; they enhance the experience. Let’s not forget a glass of chilled white wine or a hot cup of chamomile tea. Both can bring out the soup’s flavors beautifully.
Now, let’s dive into the heart of this delicious dish.
What is Panera Tomato Soup?
Panera’s tomato soup is a creamy, rich concoction based on pureed tomatoes, herbs, and spices. It often has a silky consistency, making it perfect for dipping or enjoying on its own.
The soup features the natural sweetness of tomatoes paired with savory flavors and a hint of spice. Each spoonful promises comfort, making it a beloved item on Panera’s menu.
What Does It Taste Like?
The flavor profile of Panera’s tomato soup is quite remarkable. First, there’s the sweetness of ripe tomatoes. An undertone of basil adds freshness, while garlic and onion bring depth. The creaminess of heavy cream or milk envelops everything in a rich, velvety layer.
A dash of red pepper flakes introduces a subtle heat, elevating the soup to a new level. This harmonious mix makes every bite a delight.
Why This Recipe Works
When it comes to replicating Panera’s tomato soup, several crucial factors play a role. Let’s break it down into four key elements:
1. Quality Ingredients Matter
Using high-quality, San Marzano tomatoes brings authentic flavor. These tomatoes are known for their natural sweetness and deep flavor, crucial for a standout soup.
2. Balanced Flavor Profile
This recipe strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and acidity. Sweeten the soup with a touch of honey or maple syrup, and let the fresh basil impart a lovely earthiness.
3. Creaminess Enhances Texture
Incorporating heavy cream or whole milk provides that rich, luscious mouthfeel. The cream tempers acidity and makes the soup indulgently smooth.
4. Layering Techniques
The soup benefits from the aroma and taste of sautéed onions and garlic. Cooking these ingredients first develops a fantastic base. It’s all about coaxing out flavors step by step.
Ingredients for Panera Tomato Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this comforting bowl of bliss:
- 2 (28 oz) cans San Marzano whole tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup homemade chicken broth, or vegetable broth
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream, or whole milk
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 8 fresh basil leaves, coarsely chopped
- ¼ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ⅓ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, optional
- Homemade croutons, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking! Follow these steps for a perfect pot of tomato soup.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely minced garlic and thinly sliced onion. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, or until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. Stir occasionally. This is where the magic begins!
Step 2: Introduce the Tomatoes
Next, add the undrained San Marzano tomatoes to the pot. Using a wooden spoon, break them down a bit. Mix in 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth. Stir to combine. Let this simmer for about 10 minutes. The goal is for all the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Season to Taste
Now, add ¼ cup of heavy cream or whole milk, 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup, and 8 coarsely chopped basil leaves.
Toss in the dried Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes. Season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to your liking. Allow this to simmer on low for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 4: Blend for Smoothness
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. For a creamier texture, you can blend longer.
If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the mixture to a regular blender in batches. Just be cautious with hot liquids!
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
Once blended, taste the soup. Give it a final season if needed. If it’s too thick, add a splash more broth or water. Transfer back to the pot if it was blended separately.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls. If desired, sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan cheese and top with homemade croutons. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!
Notes
Here are some tips to elevate your cooking experience with this recipe:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil truly enhances the flavor. If you have it on hand, add a few leaves as a garnish.
- Embrace the Creaminess: Substitute light cream or half-and-half for a lighter version, but the heavy cream makes it more indulgent.
- Customize Spice Levels: Prefer a spicier kick? Don’t hold back on the red pepper flakes.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you like a sweeter soup, increase the honey or maple syrup.
- Try Different Cheeses: Beyond parmesan, consider using goat cheese for a tangy flavor or even cheddar for an unexpected twist.
How to Store the Leftovers
Leftover soup? No problem! Here’s how to store it properly:
- Refrigerate: Place leftover soup in an airtight container. It’ll keep well for up to about 4 days in the fridge.
- Freeze: For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully. Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It will last for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Sides for Panera Tomato Soup
To transform this soup into a full meal, consider these delightful side dishes:
1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
You can’t go wrong with this classic combo. The melty cheese and crispy bread pair flawlessly with the creamy tomato soup.
2. Spinach Salad
A fresh spinach salad with citrus vinaigrette brings brightness. Toss in some nuts or seeds for crunch and protein.
3. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers add color and flavor. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt, and roast until tender.
4. Homemade Croutons
You’ve already got a recipe for croutons in the soup. Use leftover bread to create crunchy bites that are perfect for dipping.
Alternative Choices for Ingredients
Not every pantry is stocked to the brim. Here are some substitutes if you’re missing ingredients:
1. Canned Diced Tomatoes
If you can’t find San Marzano tomatoes, any high-quality canned diced tomatoes will do. Just adjust the seasonings.
2. Vegetable Stock
For a vegetarian option, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for the same depth of flavor.
3. Coconut Milk
Need a dairy-free option? Coconut milk will add creaminess with a hint of sweetness.
4. Fresh Herbs
If you don’t have basil, try using parsley or oregano for a different herbaceous flavor.
Conclusion
Crafting your own version of Panera’s tomato soup is not just about following a recipe; it’s a journey worth taking. You gain control over every ingredient and flavor, transforming simple elements into something extraordinary.
So, gather your ingredients and get cooking! Soon enough, you may find yourself embracing this dish as part of your regular rotation. Enjoy every bowl of comfort — you deserve it!
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- Panera Mac and Cheese Copycat Recipe
- How To Make Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
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Panera Tomato Soup Recipe – Easy Meal Recipe
Description
Ah, Panera's tomato soup. The mere thought of it evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. It transports you to a cozy café where the aroma of baked bread and roasted tomatoes fills the air. As a food enthusiast and registered dietitian, I can assure you that this dish is more than just another soup.
It’s a blend of flavors and textures that beckons to be savored. The beauty of tomato soup lies not only in its comforting warmth but also in its versatility. Join me as we explore this delightful dish, its origins, flavors, and even how to recreate it in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
-
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely minced garlic and thinly sliced onion. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, or until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. Stir occasionally. This is where the magic begins!
Step 2: Introduce the Tomatoes
-
Next, add the undrained San Marzano tomatoes to the pot. Using a wooden spoon, break them down a bit. Mix in 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth. Stir to combine. Let this simmer for about 10 minutes. The goal is for all the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Season to Taste
-
Now, add ¼ cup of heavy cream or whole milk, 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup, and 8 coarsely chopped basil leaves.
Toss in the dried Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes. Season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to your liking. Allow this to simmer on low for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 4: Blend for Smoothness
-
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. For a creamier texture, you can blend longer.
If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the mixture to a regular blender in batches. Just be cautious with hot liquids!
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
-
Once blended, taste the soup. Give it a final season if needed. If it’s too thick, add a splash more broth or water. Transfer back to the pot if it was blended separately.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
-
Ladle the soup into bowls. If desired, sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan cheese and top with homemade croutons. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 189kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 10.3g16%
- Saturated Fat 3.3g17%
- Cholesterol 38mg13%
- Sodium 339mg15%
- Total Carbohydrate 10g4%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 15g30%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil truly enhances the flavor. If you have it on hand, add a few leaves as a garnish.
- Embrace the Creaminess: Substitute light cream or half-and-half for a lighter version, but the heavy cream makes it more indulgent.
- Customize Spice Levels: Prefer a spicier kick? Don’t hold back on the red pepper flakes.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you like a sweeter soup, increase the honey or maple syrup.
- Try Different Cheeses: Beyond parmesan, consider using goat cheese for a tangy flavor or even cheddar for an unexpected twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones?
Absolutely! If you have fresh ripe tomatoes, feel free to use them. Just ensure you blanch and peel them, then cook them down to release their flavor.
2. How can I make this soup vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap heavy cream for coconut milk or another plant-based cream. Use vegetable broth, and replace cheese with a vegan alternative or omit it altogether.
3. What can I add to make it heartier?
If you want to add substance to your soup, consider incorporating cooked pasta, quinoa, or even lentils. They will complement the flavors while making it filling.
4. Can this soup be prepared in advance?
Sure thing! You can make the soup a day or two ahead. Just store in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
