How to Make Panera Bread Tomato Soup: Recipe with Simple Steps and Ingredients

To make Panera Bread tomato soup at home, start by sautéing onions in a large pot. Add crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, sugar, and seasonings. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Blend the soup until smooth, then stir in heavy cream. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh basil and a side of crusty bread for a delicious homemade version of this popular dish. Enjoy the comforting flavors of Panera's tomato soup right in your own kitchen!

How to Make Panera Bread Tomato Soup at Home

If you’ve ever craved the rich, creamy tomato soup from Panera Bread, you’ll be thrilled to know that making it at home is quite simple. This guide will walk you through the process of creating a delicious version of Panera’s tomato soup, perfect for pairing with a warm grilled cheese sandwich or enjoying on its own.

Key Takeaways:

Homemade Panera Bread tomato soup involves a blend of tomatoes, cream, and flavorful seasonings. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can recreate this comforting dish at home.

Why Panera Bread Tomato Soup is So Popular

Panera Bread’s tomato soup is a fan favorite because it balances creamy richness with the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes. This soup is beloved for its velvety texture and savory flavor, making it a go-to for those seeking comfort food. Many customers also enjoy the fact that it pairs perfectly with Panera’s signature bread.

What Makes It Unique?

The key to this soup's unique flavor is its blend of ripe tomatoes and a hint of cream, which gives it a silky texture. Panera also adds a touch of basil, garlic, and onion to round out the flavor, making the soup both savory and satisfying.

Ingredients You'll Need to Make Panera Bread Tomato Soup

To make this soup, you don’t need many complicated ingredients. In fact, most of what you need is probably already in your kitchen:

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

These simple ingredients work together to create a creamy, comforting soup that mirrors Panera Bread’s popular version.

Choosing the Right Tomatoes

While you can use any canned crushed tomatoes, choosing high-quality tomatoes will enhance the flavor. San Marzano tomatoes, known for their sweetness and low acidity, are an excellent choice for this recipe.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Panera Bread Tomato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor base of the soup, making sure the onion and garlic add depth.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10–15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and helps reduce some of the acidity of the tomatoes.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a countertop blender in batches. Make sure the soup is fully blended to achieve the creamy texture that Panera Bread’s tomato soup is known for.

Step 4: Stir in the Cream

Once the soup is smooth, return it to the pot (if you used a countertop blender) and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to thicken slightly. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and sugar if desired.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of flavor and color. This soup pairs wonderfully with a grilled cheese sandwich or a slice of warm, crusty bread.

The Importance of Texture in Tomato Soup

When replicating Panera Bread’s tomato soup, achieving the right texture is key. The soup should be creamy, but not too thick. The heavy cream adds richness, while blending the soup ensures a smooth consistency. If your soup is too thick, you can always thin it out with a little extra vegetable broth.

How to Adjust the Consistency

If you prefer a thinner soup, simply add more broth after blending. If you want a thicker soup, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce further, or add a tablespoon of tomato paste for more body.

Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve with Panera Bread Tomato Soup

While the soup is delicious on its own, it truly shines when paired with other dishes. Here are a few ideas for serving:

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich

The classic pairing with tomato soup is a gooey, melty grilled cheese sandwich. The creamy cheese complements the rich tomato flavors perfectly.

2. Crusty Bread

If you want to keep it simple, serve the soup with a piece of crusty artisan bread. Panera’s focaccia or sourdough are great choices.

3. Salad

For a lighter meal, consider pairing the soup with a fresh green salad. A Caesar salad or a Greek salad with a tangy vinaigrette works well to balance the richness of the soup.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Soup

This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

Reheating Tips

When you’re ready to enjoy the soup again, reheat it gently over low heat. You may need to add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much in the fridge. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the soup from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this soup without cream?

Yes, you can omit the cream if you're looking for a dairy-free version. You can substitute it with coconut milk or almond milk for a similar creamy texture without the dairy.

2. Can I freeze this tomato soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly after freezing due to the cream.

3. What type of tomatoes should I use for the best flavor?

San Marzano tomatoes are a great choice for this recipe due to their sweet flavor and low acidity. However, any good-quality canned crushed tomatoes will work.

4. How can I make this soup spicier?

To add a bit of heat, you can stir in red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to taste. A splash of hot sauce also works if you like more spice.

5. What is the best way to serve Panera Bread tomato soup at a dinner party?

For a dinner party, consider serving the soup in small bowls or cups as a starter. You can pair it with an assortment of breads or grilled cheese bites for a fun and interactive dining experience.

For those looking to elevate their homemade meals with the perfect bread maker, consider visiting bestbreadmaker.store. They offer a wide selection of top-quality bread machines to help you create fresh bread, perfect for pairing with your Panera Bread-style tomato soup.