If you’ve ever wandered into Panera and been instantly captivated by that rich, velvety warmth of their tomato soup, you’re about to discover how to bring that magic into your own kitchen. This Panera Bread Tomato Soup Recipe captures the essence of roasted tomatoes and fresh basil, creating a comforting bowl that’s silky, vibrant, and just begging to be savored. It’s the perfect recipe to cozy up with on a chilly day or to impress your friends with your homemade version of a classic favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the flavor just right with the Panera Bread Tomato Soup Recipe comes down to a handful of fresh, simple ingredients that work together beautifully to deliver color, texture, and that signature depth of flavor. Each component plays an essential role in making your soup taste both familiar and extraordinary.
- San Marzano or Roma tomatoes (2 pounds, halved): These tomatoes have a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, creating the soup’s vibrant base.
- Small yellow onion (1, chopped): Adds subtle sweetness and aromatic depth as it softens.
- Medium carrots (2, chopped): Bring natural sweetness and a smooth texture when cooked down.
- Garlic cloves (4, peeled): Roasted to mellow their sharpness and enhance the soup’s complexity.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons plus extra for roasting): Helps caramelize the tomatoes and add richness.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Perfect for sautéing and lending a luscious mouthfeel.
- Vegetable broth (3 cups): The flavorful liquid base that ties all the elements together.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates that creamy, indulgent texture Panera’s soup is famous for.
- Fresh basil leaves (1/4 cup, torn): Offer a bright herbal note that lifts the whole soup.
- Salt (1 teaspoon) and black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Essential to season and balance the flavors.
- Sugar (1/2 teaspoon, optional): A pinch to round out acidity if needed.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, optional topping): Adds a savory finish when sprinkled on top.
- Croutons (1/2 cup, optional topping): Bring a satisfying crunch and texture contrast.
How to Make Panera Bread Tomato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes and Garlic
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Lay out the halved tomatoes and garlic cloves on a baking sheet and drizzle them generously with olive oil. Roasting for 30 to 35 minutes softens the tomatoes and imparts a subtle caramelization that brings out their natural sweetness and adds a depth that’s impossible to beat. This step is where the soup begins to develop that unmistakable rich and slightly smoky flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Carrots
While the tomatoes roast, melt butter along with a bit of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and carrots, cooking them gently for 5 to 7 minutes until they’re tender and fragrant. This forms the savory, slightly sweet foundation beneath your soup, complementing the roasted tomatoes perfectly.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer
Once your tomatoes and garlic are tender and caramelized, add them to the pot with the onions and carrots. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to mingle and the soup to develop its characteristic comfort-food richness.
Step 4: Blend Until Smooth
Now for the magic — blending the soup until perfectly smooth transforms all those roasted and sautéed ingredients into one gloriously creamy bowl. You can use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. The texture should be silky with no chunks, creating that luscious mouthfeel Panera fans adore.
Step 5: Add Cream and Basil
Return the blended soup to the pot if needed, then stir in the heavy cream, torn basil leaves, salt, pepper, and that optional pinch of sugar if your tomatoes need a little balancing. Let it simmer gently for 5 more minutes so all these fresh flavors come together in perfect harmony.
Step 6: Serve with Toppings
Pour your hot soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan and croutons if you like. These toppings add savory punches and a delightful crunch that make each spoonful even more satisfying. And just like that, you have your own Panera Bread Tomato Soup Recipe ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Panera Bread Tomato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling grated Parmesan gives a nutty, salty kick that melts slightly into the warm soup, while crunchy croutons add texture and make every bite exciting. Fresh basil leaves on top brighten the presentation and add a fragrant herbal note that elevates the whole experience.
Side Dishes
Pair this soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a nostalgic combo or a warm crusty baguette for scooping. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette also complements the richness of the tomato soup beautifully, keeping the meal balanced and fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in mini bread bowls for a rustic, cozy touch that’s perfect for gatherings. Drizzle a swirl of basil pesto or a few drops of balsamic glaze on top for an eye-catching and flavorful finish. You could even add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy contrast that’s delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your Panera Bread Tomato Soup Recipe to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because the flavors mature overnight, leftovers often taste even better the next day.
Freezing
This soup freezes wonderfully. Pour it into freezer-friendly containers, leaving room for expansion, and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve its luscious texture and flavor.
Reheating
Gently reheat the soup on the stove over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even warming. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it back up to that perfect creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh for this Panera Bread Tomato Soup Recipe?
Yes, if fresh tomatoes aren’t available, high-quality canned San Marzano tomatoes can be an excellent substitute, maintaining that deep, rich flavor the recipe needs.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Swap out the butter for olive oil and use a plant-based cream or coconut milk to achieve a creamy texture without dairy, and make sure your broth is vegetable-based.
How can I make the soup spicier?
To add a little heat, try stirring in a pinch of red pepper flakes while simmering or garnish with a dash of hot sauce before serving.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, roast the tomatoes and garlic first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours before blending and finishing with cream and basil.
What’s the best way to reheat without losing flavor?
Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or cream if necessary, stirring often to keep the texture silky and the flavors vibrant.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about homemade soup that warms the soul, and this Panera Bread Tomato Soup Recipe nails that comforting, restaurant-quality taste all from the comfort of your kitchen. Whether you’re making it for a quiet night in or sharing it with family and friends, this recipe promises a luscious, satisfying experience with every spoonful. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite meal!
Print
Panera Bread Tomato Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Panera Bread-inspired tomato soup recipe offers a rich and creamy blend of roasted San Marzano tomatoes, fresh vegetables, and aromatic basil. Perfectly balanced with cream and subtle seasoning, this comforting soup makes a delicious starter or a light meal when paired with your favorite bread or croutons.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 pounds San Marzano or Roma tomatoes, halved
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
Fats & Dairy
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional topping)
Liquids & Broth
- 3 cups vegetable broth
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
Optional Toppings
- 1/2 cup croutons
Instructions
- Roast Tomatoes and Garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the halved tomatoes and garlic cloves on a baking sheet, drizzle them with olive oil, and roast for 30 to 35 minutes until they are softened and have developed a slight caramelization to enhance their natural sweetness.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the butter and remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and carrots, sautéing for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables become tender and fragrant, creating a flavorful base for the soup.
- Combine Roasted Ingredients with Broth: Add the roasted tomatoes and garlic to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook gently for 10 to 15 minutes to blend the flavors together.
- Blend the Soup Smooth: Use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Blend until the soup is completely smooth and creamy, ensuring a velvety texture.
- Finish with Cream and Seasonings: Stir in the heavy cream, torn basil leaves, salt, pepper, and sugar if using. Simmer the soup for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and croutons if desired for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- Roasting the tomatoes deepens their flavor and adds sweetness to the soup.
- Using an immersion blender keeps clean up easier and blends soup directly in the pot.
- The sugar is optional and helps to balance the acidity of tomatoes if needed.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or omit it.
- This soup pairs wonderfully with a grilled cheese sandwich or crusty bread.
