Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe

This Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe is a delightful blend of rich flavors and comforting textures, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a family gathering, this homemade soup made with San Marzano tomatoes is sure to impress. With a creamy base and fresh basil, it’s an easy and quick recipe that can be ready in just 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Get dinner on the table in less than 40 minutes without sacrificing flavor.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of San Marzano tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Pairing: This soup pairs beautifully with grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Easy to Customize: Adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings like croutons or extra herbs.
• Creamy Texture: The addition of cream gives the soup a smooth, velvety finish that everyone will love.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are the essential items you’ll need to make this Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed pot (like a Dutch oven)
• Immersion blender (or traditional blender)
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottomed pot: Provides even heat distribution, preventing burning while sautéing garlic and onions.
• Immersion blender: Allows you to puree the soup directly in the pot for easy cleanup without transferring hot liquids.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your pots. It also allows you to gauge heat while cooking.

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Ingredients

To make this Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe, gather the following ingredients:

For the Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 large yellow onion (sliced)

For the Soup

• 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 half and half)

For Flavoring

• 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)

Optional Toppings

• 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.
* Add sliced onion and cook for approximately 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until translucent.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add the San Marzano peeled tomatoes with their juice, chicken stock, and sugar to the pot.
* Bring everything to a low simmer.
* Cook uncovered for about 12 minutes until it has thickened slightly.

Step 3: Add Cream and Seasonings

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

Step 4: Blend Until Smooth

Using an immersion blender or carefully transferring the soup to a traditional blender:
* Puree until there are no large chunks left. If using a regular blender, be cautious of hot splatters. Consider using a kitchen towel over the lid for safety.

Step 5: Final Touches and Serve

Stir in optional parmesan cheese if desired.
* Serve hot topped with croutons for added crunch!

How to Serve Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe

This delicious Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe is perfect for a cozy meal. It pairs wonderfully with various sides and toppings that enhance its rich flavor.

With Grilled Cheese Sandwich

• A classic pairing, a crisp grilled cheese sandwich complements the creamy tomato soup beautifully. Use your favorite bread and cheese for a satisfying bite.

Topped with Croutons

• Add some crunch by garnishing your soup with store-bought or homemade croutons. They provide a delightful texture contrast and can be flavored to your liking.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top of the soup adds richness and enhances the flavors. It’s an easy way to elevate your dish.

Fresh Basil Garnish

• Sprinkle freshly chopped basil over your soup for an aromatic touch. This adds freshness and brightens the overall taste of the dish.

Served with a Side Salad

• Pairing the soup with a light side salad makes for a well-rounded meal. Choose greens like arugula or spinach dressed lightly with vinaigrette for balance.

How to Perfect Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe

Making this soup just right can elevate your dining experience. Here are some tips to ensure perfection every time you make it.

• Use Quality Tomatoes: Opt for San Marzano tomatoes for their sweet flavor and low acidity, which are key to achieving a rich tomato base.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer without a lid to reduce liquid. For a thinner consistency, add more chicken stock gradually.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Adding salt and pepper incrementally helps balance flavors without overwhelming the dish.
• Blend Thoroughly: Ensure there are no large chunks by blending until smooth. This creates a velvety texture that mimics restaurant quality.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or parsley for additional layers of flavor that pair well with tomatoes.
• Cool Before Blending: If using a traditional blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending to avoid splatters and burns.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe

Complementing your Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe with delightful side dishes can create an enjoyable meal experience. Here are some of the best options:

1. Grilled Cheese Bites: Miniature versions of classic grilled cheese sandwiches make perfect dippers, providing comfort in every bite.

2. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks infused with garlic are perfect for soaking up leftover soup.

3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add brightness and acidity.

4. Roasted Vegetable Medley: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrients while complementing the soup’s flavors.

5. Pasta Salad: Cold pasta salad tossed in vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

6. Cheesy Quesadillas: Simple cheese quesadillas cut into wedges offer gooey goodness that pairs nicely with tomato flavors.

7. Spinach Artichoke Dip: Creamy dip served with tortilla chips or veggies makes for an indulgent side that balances the meal.

8. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with grains and veggies create an eye-catching side that is nutritious and filling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe, it’s essential to avoid some common pitfalls that can affect the final taste and texture. Here are a few mistakes to keep in mind:

• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using canned or dried herbs instead of fresh can diminish flavor. Always opt for fresh basil and garlic for the best results.

• Not Blending Properly: Leaving large chunks in the soup can lead to an uneven texture. Ensure you blend thoroughly until smooth for a creamy consistency.

• Overcooking the Onions: Cooking onions too long can cause them to caramelize too much. Aim for a translucent state, which enhances sweetness without losing their integrity.

• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season adequately with salt and pepper can leave your soup bland. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning before serving.

• Using Low-Quality Tomatoes: The quality of tomatoes significantly impacts flavor. Choose high-quality San Marzano tomatoes for a rich, authentic taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezing Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.

• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power, stirring every minute until warm.

• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe:

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or plant-based milk and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

What can I serve with this Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe?

This tomato soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread.

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

The Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.

Can I freeze leftovers of this recipe?

Absolutely! This soup freezes well for up to 3 months, making it perfect for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe is not only easy but also incredibly delicious, making it perfect for cozy nights in or lunch with friends. Feel free to customize it by adding extra vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy its comforting flavors!