Copycat Panera Tomato Soup
If you love the comforting flavors of Panera’s famous tomato soup, you’re in for a treat! This Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe brings that delicious taste right into your kitchen. It’s creamy, hearty, and oh-so-easy to make. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a lunch with friends!
Table of Contents
Why Make This Recipe
Making this soup at home means you can enjoy all the rich flavors without the wait. It’s incredibly simple to whip up, and you can customize it to your liking. Plus, it’s perfect for busy days when you want something warm and filling without spending hours in the kitchen.
How to Make Copycat Panera Tomato Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 large yellow onion (sliced)
- 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)
- 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)
- 1/3 cup shredded parmesan cheese (optional)
- croutons (optional garnish)
Directions:
In a heavy-bottomed pot (like a Dutch oven), heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Then, add the sliced onion and cook, stirring often, until the onion is translucent, about 8 minutes.
Next, add the San Marzano peeled tomatoes (including the juice), chicken stock, and sugar to the pot. Bring this mixture to a low simmer and cook uncovered for 12 minutes, or until it thickens.
Stir in the heavy cream, chopped basil, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Now, using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth and creamy. If you’re using a regular blender, be careful of hot splatters. You can cover the lid with a kitchen towel for safety or let it cool slightly.
Finally, stir in the parmesan cheese, and serve your lovely soup topped with croutons if you’d like!
How to Serve Copycat Panera Tomato Soup
Serve this soup warm with a side of crusty bread or grilled cheese for a classic combo. It’s perfect for sharing with family or enjoying all by yourself!
How to Store Copycat Panera Tomato Soup
You can store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s easy to reheat on the stove or in the microwave for a quick meal!
Tips to Make Copycat Panera Tomato Soup
- Use quality San Marzano tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Adjust the cream to your liking; for a lighter version, use less or substitute with milk.
- Don’t skip the fresh basil; it really elevates the taste!
Variation
Feel free to add other ingredients like spinach or carrots for extra nutrition. You can also substitute the chicken stock with vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes! This soup freezes well. Just let it cool down first, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Q: What can I serve with this soup?
This tomato soup pairs perfectly with grilled cheese sandwiches, a fresh salad, or crusty bread.
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Yes! If using fresh tomatoes, you’ll need about 2 pounds. Roast them first for better flavor.
Enjoy making this comforting Copycat Panera Tomato Soup and share it with your loved ones!
