Growing up, Tomato Soup & Cheesy Herbed Dumplings was a dish that always brought me right back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen. The aroma of the simmering tomatoes and the sound of the fluffy dumplings gently bubbling away on the stovetop – it’s a memory I’ll cherish forever. Whenever the cool autumn wind started to blow, I knew it was the perfect time for Grandma’s famous Tomato Soup & Cheesy Herbed Dumplings.
She’d spend the morning meticulously chopping the onions, garlic, and fresh herbs, taking the time to ensure every flavor was perfectly balanced. Then, she’d carefully ladle the rich, velvety tomato soup into bowls, topping it with those pillowy-soft dumplings that just melted in your mouth. It was a dish that embodied pure comfort and love, and I could never get enough.
Even now, as an adult, that dish still holds a special place in my heart. Whenever I make Tomato Soup & Cheesy Herbed Dumplings, I’m transported back to those cozy afternoons in Grandma’s kitchen, watching her work her magic. It’s a recipe that’s become a cherished tradition in my own home, and one that I’m excited to share with you today.
Why This Tomato Soup & Cheesy Herbed Dumplings Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Tomato Soup & Cheesy Herbed Dumplings
What sets this Tomato Soup & Cheesy Herbed Dumplings recipe apart is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The key is in the slow-simmered tomato base, which develops a rich, velvety consistency that’s the perfect canvas for those pillowy soft dumplings. And the addition of fresh herbs and a blend of cheeses in the dumplings takes the whole dish to the next level. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become your go-to for cozy, comforting meals.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Canned crushed tomatoes: The foundation of the soup, providing that amazing tomato flavor.
- Onion and garlic: These aromatics add depth and complexity to the soup.
- Chicken or vegetable broth: Helps to thin out the soup and enhance the flavors.
- Heavy cream: Stirred in at the end, this gives the soup a luxurious, creamy texture.
- All-purpose flour: Used to thicken the soup and create a velvety consistency.
- Baking mix: The base for the fluffy, cheesy dumplings.
- Cheddar and Parmesan cheeses: Melted into the dumplings for a burst of savory, cheesy goodness.
- Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley, thyme, and chives add a pop of freshness.
Step-by-Step Tomato Soup & Cheesy Herbed Dumplings Instructions
Preparing Your Tomato Soup & Cheesy Herbed Dumplings
Tomato Soup & Cheesy Herbed Dumplings is a comforting, satisfying dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings. With just a few simple steps, you can have this wholesome meal on the table in under an hour. Let’s get started!
1- In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic in a bit of olive oil until they’re softened and fragrant.
2- Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and a pinch of sugar. Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
3- While the soup is simmering, prepare the cheesy herbed dumplings. In a medium bowl, whisk together the baking mix, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, thyme, and chives.
4- Gradually stir in the milk until a thick, sticky dough forms. Drop the dumplings by the spoonful directly into the simmering soup.
5- Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for 10-12 minutes, until they’re fluffy and cooked through.
6- Finally, stir in the heavy cream and season the Tomato Soup & Cheesy Herbed Dumplings with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Tomato Soup & Cheesy Herbed Dumplings turn out perfectly, here are a few pro tips:
- Use high-quality, canned crushed tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix the dumpling dough – this can make them tough.
- Resist the urge to peek while the dumplings are cooking, as this can cause them to fall.
- For extra creaminess, stir in a bit of mascarpone or cream cheese along with the heavy cream.
- Top each bowl with a sprinkle of extra chopped herbs for a beautiful presentation.
Serving and Storing Your Tomato Soup & Cheesy Herbed Dumplings
Perfect Pairings for Tomato Soup & Cheesy Herbed Dumplings
Tomato Soup & Cheesy Herbed Dumplings is a comforting, satisfying dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes and beverages. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad, crusty bread, or a glass of crisp white wine. It also makes a wonderful starter course for a cozy dinner party or a comforting lunch on a chilly day.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Tomato Soup & Cheesy Herbed Dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the soup in a saucepan and gently warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the soup base in advance and store it separately from the dumplings. When ready to serve, simply reheat the soup, drop in the freshly made dumplings, and let them cook until tender and cooked through.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Tomato Soup & Cheesy Herbed Dumplings
Creative Tomato Soup & Cheesy Herbed Dumplings Variations
While the classic version of Tomato Soup & Cheesy Herbed Dumplings is a true crowd-pleaser, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. Try adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the soup for extra vegetables, or experiment with different cheese blends in the dumplings, such as a mix of Gruyère and Parmesan. You could also switch up the herbs, using a combination of basil, oregano, and rosemary for a Mediterranean twist.
Making Tomato Soup & Cheesy Herbed Dumplings Diet-Friendly
To make this dish more diet-friendly, you can easily swap out a few ingredients. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free baking mix in the dumplings. To make it vegan, replace the heavy cream with a plant-based milk, and use vegan cheese in the dumplings. For a low-carb adaptation, skip the dumplings altogether and serve the Tomato Soup with a side of roasted zucchini or cauliflower.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! You can easily substitute fresh, ripe tomatoes for the canned crushed variety. You’ll just need to adjust the cooking time to allow the fresh tomatoes to break down and release their juices.
Q: How do I know when the dumplings are done?
A: The dumplings are ready when they’ve puffed up and are no longer doughy in the center. You can use a toothpick or skewer to test one – it should come out clean when the dumplings are fully cooked.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, Tomato Soup & Cheesy Herbed Dumplings freezes very well. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Q: How do I adjust the recipe to serve a larger group?
A: This recipe as written serves 4-6 people. To scale it up, simply double or triple all of the ingredients, adjusting the cooking time as needed to ensure the soup simmers properly and the dumplings cook through.
Q: Why is my soup too thick or too thin?
A: If your Tomato Soup & Cheesy Herbed Dumplings turns out too thick, you can thin it out by adding a bit more broth or milk. If it’s too thin, try mixing a tablespoon or two of flour with some of the hot soup, then stirring that back into the pot to thicken it up.
Tomato Soup & Cheesy Herbed Dumplings
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Dive into a bowl of creamy, homemade tomato soup topped with fluffy, cheesy herbed dumplings for the ultimate comfort food experience. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a chilly day and is sure to warm you up from the inside out.
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz canned diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– For the dumplings:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter, cold and cubed
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup milk
Instructions
1. – In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until translucent.
2. – Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. – Add the diced tomatoes, broth, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes.
4. – In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the cheddar cheese and parsley.
5. – Add the milk and stir just until a sticky dough forms. Do not overmix.
6. – Drop the dough by heaping tablespoonfuls onto the simmering soup. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through.
7. – Serve the tomato soup warm, with the cheesy herbed dumplings on top.
Notes
– For a thicker soup, use less broth or let it simmer for longer.
– Try using different types of cheese in the dumplings, such as Parmesan or Gruyère.
– Garnish with additional fresh herbs, such as basil or chives, for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Tomato Soup & Cheesy Herbed Dumplings is a dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite. With its cozy, comforting flavors and satisfying texture, it’s the perfect meal to enjoy on a chilly evening. I hope this recipe brings you as much joy and nostalgia as it does for me. Give it a try, and let me know what you think in the comments below!
