Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

Name: Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
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)

Posted on October 10, 2025

Main Dishes

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The Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings is a delightful blend of comforting flavors that suits various occasions, from cozy family dinners to casual gatherings. This easy-to-make dish stands out with its creamy tomato base paired with fluffy cheddar bay dumplings, making it a perfect choice for any time of the year. Whether you’re enjoying a rainy day or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 10 minutes and only 30 minutes of cooking, you can have a hearty meal ready in under an hour.
Rich Flavor: The combination of sweet onions and canned diced tomatoes creates a deep, flavorful soup that warms the soul.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy dumplings, making this recipe perfect for families.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the following essential kitchen tools.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Ladle

Why These Tools Matter

Large pot: Perfect for simmering the soup and ensuring even heating.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.
Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient amounts for consistent results.
Ladle: Makes serving the soup easy and mess-free.

Ingredients

For the Soup

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 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 Onions

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped sweet onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Base

Sprinkle in the flour while stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for another minute before slowly adding the chicken stock and canned diced tomatoes (with their liquid). Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Season the Soup

Add sugar, coarse salt, and ground black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Prepare the Dumplings

While the soup simmers, prepare your cheddar bay dumplings according to package instructions. Typically, this involves combining the biscuit mix with water and melted butter until just combined.

Step 5: Add Dumplings to Soup

Once the soup has thickened slightly, drop spoonfuls of batter onto the surface of the simmering soup. Cover and cook for an additional 10 minutes without lifting the lid.

Step 6: Serve Hot

After cooking, gently ladle portions into bowls. Enjoy your deliciously warm tomato soup topped with fluffy cheddar bay dumplings!

How to Serve Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

Serving your Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings can elevate the experience and make it a satisfying meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will delight your taste buds.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

Garden Salad: Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons offer a delicious complement to the tomato soup’s flavors.

Add Grilled Cheese

Classic Grilled Cheese: A gooey, melted cheese sandwich provides a nostalgic touch and pairs perfectly with the soup.
Pesto Grilled Cheese: Add basil pesto to your grilled cheese for an herby twist that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Serve with Crusty Bread

Sourdough Bread: The tangy flavor of sourdough contrasts beautifully with the sweet tomato soup.
Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic taste adds richness and makes for a perfect dipper in the soup.

Top with Fresh Herbs

Basil: Chopped fresh basil adds brightness and freshness on top of each bowl.
Parsley: Finely chopped parsley brings a burst of color and flavor that enhances the dish.

How to Perfect Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

To make your Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings even more delicious, consider these helpful tips.

Bold Flavor Boost: Sauté garlic along with the onions for added depth of flavor.
Creamy Texture: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk before serving for a rich, velvety texture.
Herb Infusion: Add dried herbs like oregano or thyme while cooking for an aromatic touch.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed to bring out the best flavors in your soup.
Dumpling Perfection: Ensure dumplings are lightly golden on top; this adds a delightful crunch to each bite.

Best Side Dishes for Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

A well-rounded meal is always appreciated. Here are some side dishes that pair wonderfully with your tomato soup.

Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices offer a hearty side that complements the soup’s flavors.
Zucchini Fries: Crispy baked zucchini fries provide a healthy crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft dumplings.
Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil on skewers create a vibrant appetizer that’s easy to enjoy.
Roasted Veggies: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized add sweetness and texture to your meal.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with lemon juice, herbs, and veggies makes for a nutritious accompaniment.
Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits infused with garlic and cheese enhance the comfort food vibe of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making tomato soup with cheddar bay dumplings can be simple, but some common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are a few to watch out for:

Ignoring the onion: Not properly sautéing the onion can lead to a bland taste. Always cook it until it’s soft and fragrant for maximum flavor.
Skipping the sugar: Omitting sugar from the recipe may result in a sour taste. Adding just a teaspoon balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.
Using low-quality tomatoes: Poor-quality canned tomatoes can make your soup taste off. Opt for good-quality diced tomatoes to enhance your dish’s overall flavor.
Not following biscuit mix instructions: Failing to adhere to the biscuit mix package directions might lead to dense dumplings. Always check those instructions for perfect results.
Overcooking the dumplings: Cooking the dumplings too long can make them tough. Keep an eye on them, as they only need a short time in the pot.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

Freeze in individual portions or larger containers for up to 3 months.
Ensure you leave some space in containers, as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each until evenly warmed.
Stovetop: Gently heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this the Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings?

The secret lies in using high-quality canned tomatoes and balancing flavors with sugar and seasonings, resulting in a rich and comforting soup.

Can I customize my Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition or substitute different cheeses for varied flavors.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version without sacrificing flavor.

How do I store leftovers of Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for longer preservation.

Conclusion

The Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings is not only hearty and satisfying but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with various vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its comforting flavors on any occasion!