panera tomato soup recipe
The Best panera tomato soup recipe
What I love most about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can make it light and fresh if you’re watching your sodium, or you can boost the flavor with a little extra olive oil and a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. My kids love it even healthier, so we sometimes add a handful of spinach or kale at the end for extra nutrients without changing the taste much. It’s also perfect for special occasions—whether it’s a potluck, a holiday dinner, or just a night in with the family. The way the soup fills the house with a comforting aroma and the way it melts on your tongue makes it feel like a little treat, even when it’s just plain old dinner. Plus, the health benefits are pretty solid: tomatoes are packed with lycopene, which is great for heart health, and the blend of vegetables and whole grains keeps it balanced without being overly heavy. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a little indulgence, but it’s really just good, wholesome food.
Panera-Style Classic Tomato Soup
A creamy, comforting tomato soup inspired by Panera Bread’s signature recipe, perfect for a cozy meal. Rich in tomato flavor with a velvety texture.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14.5 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1 cup whole milk
- Salt and black pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant (about 5 minutes). -
2
Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and bring to a simmer. -
3
Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes. Blend until smooth (use an immersion blender for a finer texture). -
4
Strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve (optional) for a silky texture. Return to the pot and stir in heavy cream and milk. -
5
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer for another 5 minutes, then adjust seasoning if needed.
🔧Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Blender or immersion blender
- Fine-mesh strainer (optional)
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Tips
- For extra richness, add a splash of cream cheese at the end.
- Use fresh basil instead of dried for a brighter flavor.
- Serve with crusty bread or a side salad.
Substitutions
- Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Add a pinch of sugar if the soup tastes too tart.
Watch Video Of How Panera-Style Classic Tomato Soup Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Panera-Style Tomato Soup
What are the key ingredients in Panera’s classic tomato soup recipe?
Panera’s classic tomato soup typically includes canned crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, tomato paste, olive oil, salt, pepper, and a touch of sugar or honey for balance. Some variations may also include a splash of red wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes for depth.
How does Panera prepare its tomato soup, and what’s the secret to its rich flavor?
Panera’s tomato soup is made by simmering crushed tomatoes with aromatics (onion, garlic, and sometimes celery) in a rich vegetable broth until thickened. The secret lies in slow cooking to develop deep, complex flavors, using a blend of fresh and canned ingredients for consistency. Olive oil is added to enhance richness, and a small amount of sugar or honey helps balance acidity.
Can I make Panera-style tomato soup at home without using canned tomatoes?
Yes! You can use fresh tomatoes (like Roma or San Marzano) and simmer them with onions, garlic, and broth until reduced. Adding a splash of tomato paste or a few extra garlic cloves can mimic the store-bought texture. For extra richness, a splash of red wine or a drizzle of olive oil works well.
What’s the best way to thicken homemade tomato soup for a Panera-like consistency?
To achieve a creamy, thick texture like Panera’s, simmer the soup until it reduces by half, then blend it with a bit of cream, coconut milk, or a cornstarch slurry (mixed with cold water) before reheating. Alternatively, using a mix of fresh tomatoes and canned tomatoes (like San Marzano) helps balance sweetness and thickness.
Does Panera’s tomato soup contain any dairy products?
Panera’s original tomato soup is dairy-free, as it relies on vegetable broth and tomato base. However, some variations or add-ins (like cheese) may be available in certain locations—always check the menu or ask the staff to confirm.
