Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe

This Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe is a delightful dish that warms the heart and soul. Perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner, this homemade tomato soup brings the comfort of Panera right to your kitchen. With simple ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes and fresh basil, it’s a flavorful and creamy option that pairs wonderfully with a grilled cheese sandwich. Plus, it can be made in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy nights.
• Rich Flavor: The use of San Marzano tomatoes provides a deep, rich flavor that makes this soup stand out.
• Versatile Pairing: Enjoy it on its own or serve it with your favorite sandwich for a complete meal.
• Customizable: Add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences, such as using vegetable stock for a lighter version.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients, this soup is a wholesome choice for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Copycat Panera Tomato Soup, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish.

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: Ensures even heat distribution while cooking, preventing scorching.
• Immersion blender: Allows you to blend the soup directly in the pot for easy cleanup.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and herbs efficiently.

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

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
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Optional Garnishes

• 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. Next, add sliced onion and cook until translucent, stirring occasionally for about 8 minutes.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add the San Marzano peeled tomatoes along with their juice, chicken stock, and sugar to the pot. Bring this mixture to a low simmer. Cook uncovered for approximately 12 minutes or until the soup thickens slightly.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

Stir in heavy cream, chopped basil leaves, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper. Using an immersion blender, carefully puree the soup until smooth. If you’re using a regular blender, exercise caution due to hot splatters; consider letting it cool slightly first.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Once blended to your desired consistency, stir in parmesan cheese if using. Serve hot with croutons on top for added crunch if desired!

Enjoy your delicious homemade Copycat Panera Tomato Soup!

How to Serve Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe

This Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe is perfect for cozy meals and gatherings. It pairs beautifully with various sides, enhancing the overall dining experience.

With Grilled Cheese Sandwich

• A classic pairing! Serve the soup alongside a big, buttery grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal.

With Fresh Crusty Bread

• Dip slices of fresh crusty bread into the soup. The bread soaks up the delicious flavors and adds a satisfying crunch.

As a Starter

• Serve small portions of this tomato soup as an appetizer before a main course to whet appetites.

With Salad

• Pair the soup with a fresh garden salad. The crisp greens balance the richness of the creamy tomato soup.

With Croutons

• Top each bowl with homemade or store-bought croutons for an extra layer of texture and flavor.

How to Perfect Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe

To ensure your Copycat Panera Tomato Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and quality tomatoes for a vibrant flavor that canned ingredients can’t match.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you cook! Adjust salt, pepper, and sugar according to your preference to achieve the perfect balance.
• Blend thoroughly: For a silky texture, make sure to blend the soup until smooth. An immersion blender works best for this.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add different spices or herbs, like thyme or parsley, to create your own unique twist on the recipe.
• Store properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove for optimal taste.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe

Enjoying your Copycat Panera Tomato Soup can be even more delightful when complemented by tasty side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
   A warm sandwich made with your favorite cheese melted between two slices of buttered bread offers classic comfort.
2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese adds freshness and crunch.
3. Garlic Bread
   Toasted bread topped with garlic butter brings extra flavor and is perfect for dipping into the soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables seasoned with herbs provide a nutritious side that complements the creamy soup well.
5. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil create a light side dish bursting with flavor.
6. Pasta Salad
   A chilled pasta salad with olives, cherry tomatoes, and Italian dressing makes for a refreshing contrast to hot soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make sure your Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the onion – Onions add sweetness and depth. Always include them for a fuller flavor.
• Not using quality tomatoes – Opt for San Marzano tomatoes for the best taste. Avoid regular canned tomatoes for a more authentic flavor.
• Overcooking the soup – Cooking too long can change the texture. Aim for a simmer of about 12 minutes after adding the stock.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments – Taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper to enhance flavors.
• Blending while too hot – Blending hot soup can cause splatters. Allow it to cool slightly or use an immersion blender for safety.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe

• Pour into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and heat in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until heated through.
• Stovetop – Warm on medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and chicken stock with vegetable stock.

How do I thicken my tomato soup?

You can simmer it longer to reduce liquid or add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water.

What should I serve with tomato soup?

Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic pairing, but you can also enjoy it with crusty bread or a fresh salad.

Can I add other vegetables to my tomato soup?

Absolutely! Carrots, celery, or bell peppers can be added during cooking for extra nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly delicious. Its creamy texture pairs wonderfully with various sides like grilled cheese or crusty bread. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables to suit your taste. Enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness!