Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
The Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its rich, flavorful tomato base and fluffy cheddar bay dumplings, this soup is perfect for cozy dinners or casual gatherings. Whether you’re enjoying a rainy day at home or hosting friends, this recipe stands out with its vibrant flavors and easy preparation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 40 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Comforting Flavor: The combination of tomatoes and cheddar creates a rich, savory experience that warms the soul.
- Versatile Dish: Suitable for lunch or dinner, it’s perfect on its own or paired with a salad for a complete meal.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the tasty dumplings nestled in the soup.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples, you’ll find these ingredients easy to gather.

Tools and Preparation
To make the best tomato soup with cheddar bay dumplings, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing ample space for all ingredients.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot while mixing ingredients thoroughly.
- Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient proportions for a perfectly balanced flavor in your soup.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 chopped sweet onion
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken stock
- 43.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes, with liquid
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon coarse salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Cheddar Bay Dumplings
- 11-ounce packet cheddar bay biscuit mix
- 2 tablespoons butter
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
How to Make Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
Step 1: Sauté the Onion
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped sweet onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup.
Step 2: Make the Roux
Once the onions are ready, stir in the all-purpose flour. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning. This roux will help thicken your soup later.
Step 3: Add Chicken Stock and Tomatoes
Gradually pour in the chicken stock while stirring continuously to combine everything smoothly. Then add in the canned diced tomatoes along with their liquid.
Step 4: Season Your Soup
Stir in the sugar, coarse salt, and ground black pepper. Let this mixture simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Prepare Cheddar Bay Dumplings
In a separate bowl, prepare the cheddar bay biscuit mix according to package instructions. Once mixed, drop spoonfuls of dough into your simmering tomato soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Step 6: Finish Cooking
Cover the pot and let it cook until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through—about 10 minutes more. Serve hot, garnished as desired! Enjoy your comforting bowl of best tomato soup with cheddar bay dumplings!
How to Serve Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
Serving the Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings can elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this comforting dish.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- A crisp garden salad adds freshness. Use mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for balance.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish your soup with chopped basil or parsley. This enhances flavor and adds a pop of color.
Add Crusty Bread
- Serve alongside warm, crusty bread for dipping. A sourdough or baguette complements the soup perfectly.
Accompany with Cheese Toasts
- Melted cheese on toasted bread is a delightful accompaniment. Try using mozzarella or cheddar for extra richness.
How to Perfect Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
To achieve the ultimate flavor in your Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings, consider these helpful tips.
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Use Quality Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes. They provide a richer taste and deeper flavor profile.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for a personalized touch.
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Incorporate Spices: Add spices like oregano or thyme for added depth. These herbs bring warmth and complexity to the soup.
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Blend for Smoothness: For a creamier texture, blend the soup after cooking. This creates a velvety consistency that’s irresistible.
Best Side Dishes for Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
Pairing side dishes with your Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent choices:
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Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious soup.
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Caprese Salad: This fresh salad combines tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. It’s refreshing and complements the soup well.
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Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing! The gooey cheese between crispy bread is comfort food at its finest.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients to your meal while balancing flavors.
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Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad can be filling yet healthy, offering a nice contrast to the rich soup.
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Stuffed Peppers: These can be made ahead of time and filled with grains, beans, or meat for a hearty addition to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Using the wrong type of tomatoes: Not all canned tomatoes work the same. Choose high-quality diced tomatoes for better flavor.
- Neglecting seasoning: Skipping salt and sugar can lead to bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.
- Overcooking the dumplings: Following the baking time closely is crucial. Overbaking can make them dry instead of fluffy.
- Not blending the soup: A chunky soup may lack that smooth texture. Blend until you reach your desired consistency for a creamy finish.
- Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile. Add basil or parsley just before serving for a burst of freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Leave space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.
Reheating Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely, for 2-3 minutes, stirring every minute.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I customize the Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings?
You can add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Spicing it up with red pepper flakes adds heat too!
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes! If you have fresh tomatoes, roast them first for added depth of flavor before adding them to your soup.
What do I serve with Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings?
Pair it with a side salad or grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting meal.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The soup stores well and tastes even better after a day or two in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
The Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. This recipe brings warmth and comfort, making it perfect for any occasion. Give it a try; you’ll love how easy and satisfying it is!
Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings is a heartwarming dish that perfectly combines a rich, savory tomato base with fluffy cheddar bay dumplings. This cozy recipe is ideal for chilly evenings or casual gatherings, bringing comfort and delightful flavors to your table. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, you can enjoy this delicious soup in just 40 minutes. Whether paired with a side salad or crusty bread, this dish will surely become a family favorite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 chopped sweet onion
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken stock
- 43.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes (with liquid)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon coarse salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 11-ounce packet cheddar bay biscuit mix
- 2 tablespoons butter (for dumplings)
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in the flour and cook for another minute to form a roux.
- Gradually add the chicken stock while stirring, then mix in the canned tomatoes.
- Season with sugar, salt, and pepper; simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes.
- Prepare the cheddar bay biscuit mix according to package instructions. Drop spoonfuls into the simmering soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Cover and cook until dumplings are fluffy (about 10 minutes). Serve hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 350g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg