If you’re craving the ultimate comfort in a bowl, this Creamy Tomato Soup with Cheddar Dumplings is about to become your best friend. Combining a silky, rich tomato base with fluffy cheese-infused dumplings, it’s like a warm hug on a cold day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Velvety Richness: The silky texture of the soup paired with the savory dumplings makes for a satisfying meal.
- Cheese Extravaganza: Cheddar dumplings add a delightful cheesy punch that’s just irresistible.
- Warm Comfort: Ideal for cozying up on a chilly day.
- Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is probably right in your pantry.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of pantry staples, you’re all set to create this iconic Creamy Tomato Soup with Cheddar Dumplings. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building flavors and textures, ensuring your tastebuds are delighted with every spoonful.
- Butter: Adds a rich, smooth base for the soup’s flavor profile.
- Onions: They offer a sweet, aromatic foundation that enhances the tomato’s natural tanginess.
- Chicken Stock: Brings depth and a savory note to the soup.
- Chopped Tomatoes: The star of the show, offering vibrant color and an unmistakable fresh taste.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Infuses the dumplings with a bold, rich cheesy flavor.
Variations
This recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to make it your very own. Whether you want to tweak flavors, accommodate dietary needs, or simply use what’s on hand, these alterations make it effortless to cater to your cravings.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup for a warm, spicy undertone.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken stock for vegetable stock for a vegetarian-friendly dish.
- Herb-Infused Dumplings: Mix in dried herbs like oregano or thyme with the dumplings for an aromatic twist.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Soup with Cheddar Dumplings
Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base
Begin by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s softened and translucent, making sure not to brown it. This process ensures that the soup has a delicate sweetness.
Step 2: Thicken and Flavor
Whisk in the flour and cook it briefly to eliminate any raw taste. Gradually add the chicken stock and tomatoes. Stir, then bring the mixture to a boil before reducing it to a simmer. Season with a touch of sugar, salt, and pepper to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Step 3: Craft the Cheddar Dumplings
In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and seasonings. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles fine crumbs. Stir in the cheddar cheese, and once well-combined, add milk to form a soft dough.
Step 4: Cook the Dumplings
Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the simmering soup. Cover the pan tightly and let the dumplings cook undisturbed for about 10 to 12 minutes — they’ll steam to perfection right on top of the soup.
Pro Tips for Making Creamy Tomato Soup with Cheddar Dumplings
- Optimal Onion Flavor: Sauté the onions on low heat to draw out their sweetness without burning.
- Cheese Consistency: Grate your own cheddar for better melting in the dumplings rather than using pre-shredded cheese.
- No Peeking: Resist the urge to lift the lid while the dumplings cook, as the steam is crucial for them to rise and fluff up.
- Simmer, Don’t Boil: Keep the soup at a gentle simmer when cooking the dumplings for the best texture.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Soup with Cheddar Dumplings
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color. If you’re a cheese lover, a light dusting of extra cheddar on top adds even more flavor and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Pair this soup with a crisp green salad or a slice of rustic bread for a complete and satisfying meal. The contrast of crunchy greens with the creamy soup works wonders on the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in warm, vibrant bowls to emphasize its rich color. If entertaining, try smaller, appetizer-sized portions in mugs for a charming, rustic touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To store leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely and then place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully. Transfer the cooled soup to a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion. It will keep well for up to three months.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If reheating after freezing, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight first.
FAQs
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Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used. Blanch and peel them first for a smoother texture in the soup.
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What can I use if I don’t have chicken stock?
If you don’t have chicken stock, vegetable broth is a great alternative that will still give wonderful flavor.
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How do I prevent dumplings from being dense?
Ensure not to over-mix your dough and maintain a good simmer while cooking to achieve light, fluffy dumplings.
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Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, simply replace the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum to help bind the dough.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the soothing combination of Creamy Tomato Soup with Cheddar Dumplings. We invite you to try this hearty, flavorful dish that’s sure to bring warmth and joy into your kitchen. Happy cooking!
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Creamy Tomato Soup with Cheddar Dumplings Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 Min
- Cook Time: 30 Min
- Total Time: 35 Min
- Yield: 3 servings
- Category: Soup, Dumplings, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Tomato Soup with Cheddar Dumplings is a comforting and hearty dish combining a rich, velvety tomato soup with fluffy, cheesy dumplings. Perfect for cozying up on a chilly day, this recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that comfort and satisfy.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 TBS butter
- 1/2 medium onion, peeled and chopped
- 1 1/2 TBS flour
- 1 1/2 cups (360ml) chicken stock
- 1 (14oz/425g) tin of chopped tomatoes in tomato juice
- 1/2 tsp of sugar
- salt and black pepper to taste
For the Dumplings:
- 1/2 cup (70g) plain all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- fine sea salt and coarse black pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 2 TBS cold butter
- 4 TBS grated sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra to sprinkle, optional)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
Instructions
- Sauté the onions: Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Make the soup base: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to eliminate raw flour taste. Gradually add the chicken stock and undrained tomatoes, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Stir in the sugar and season with salt and pepper. Simmer gently for 10 minutes to develop flavor.
- Prepare the dumpling dough: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the cold butter and cut it into the dry ingredients using a pastry blender or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some larger bits. Mix in the grated cheddar cheese, then add the milk and stir until a soft dough forms.
- Cook the dumplings: Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the simmering soup. Cover the pot tightly with a lid and cook on low heat for 10-12 minutes, without lifting the lid. The dumplings should be fluffy and cooked through.
- Finish and serve: Optional: sprinkle additional cheddar cheese over the dumplings and allow it to melt. Ladle the soup with dumplings into heated bowls and serve immediately.
Notes
- Ensure the soup simmers gently under a lid to prevent the dumplings from becoming dense.
- You can substitute beef or vegetable stock for chicken stock for different flavor profiles.
- Adding a splash of cream before serving can make the soup even richer.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable stock and omit the cheese or choose a vegetarian cheese.
- The dumplings can be prepared in advance and briefly reheated before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 350ml)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
