Panera Bread Tomato Soup Recipe: A Delicious and Authentic Copycat

The Allure of Panera’s Tomato Soup

There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of Panera Bread’s Tomato Soup. It’s a classic for a reason – the vibrant red hue, the rich, tangy flavor, and the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. This copycat recipe aims to capture that magic in your own kitchen, bringing the taste of your favorite restaurant straight to your table.

What sets Panera’s Tomato Soup apart? It’s the combination of high-quality ingredients, a touch of creaminess, and a hint of sweetness that elevates it beyond a simple tomato soup. This recipe uses fresh tomatoes, a blend of aromatic spices, and a touch of cream to create a soup that’s both flavorful and satisfying.

Classic Panera Bread Tomato Soup Recipe

A comforting and creamy soup that’s reminiscent of your favorite Panera Bread restaurant. This recipe serves 4-6 people and can be easily scaled up or down.

Key Ingredients:

• 240 g / 1 cup (2 medium) fresh tomatoes, chopped
• 30 g / 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 240 ml / 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 120 ml / 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat (175°C / 350°F).
2. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chopped tomatoes, broth, heavy cream, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the soup has thickened slightly.

Serve hot and enjoy!

Ingredients for Panera Bread Tomato Soup

This recipe relies on fresh and high-quality ingredients to replicate the rich flavor of Panera Bread’s tomato soup. The key to its success lies in the combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and a touch of creaminess.

The following ingredients are necessary for this recipe:

• 2 kg / 4.4 lbs ripe tomatoes, or 2 cups of canned crushed tomatoes
• 1 large onion, diced (250 g / 1 cup)
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced (15 g / 0.5 oz)
• 2 medium carrots, diced (120 g / 0.5 cup)
• 2 stalks of celery, diced (120 g / 0.5 cup)
• 1 tsp (5 g / 0.2 oz) dried basil
• 1 tsp (5 g / 0.2 oz) dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp (2 g / 0.1 oz) salt
• 1/4 tsp (1 g / 0.04 oz) black pepper
• 2 tbsp (30 g / 1 oz) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup (120 ml / 4 oz) heavy cream or half-and-half
• 4 cups (1 L / 33.8 oz) chicken or vegetable broth
• Optional:
  • 1/4 cup (15 g / 0.5 oz) chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish
  • 1/2 cup (120 g / 4.3 oz) grated cheddar cheese for added flavor
  • 1/4 tsp (1 g / 0.04 oz) cayenne pepper for some heat

Step-by-Step Instructions for Panera Bread Tomato Soup

This recipe will guide you through creating a delicious and authentic Panera Bread Tomato Soup in your own kitchen. Follow these easy steps for a comforting and flavorful bowl of soup.

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 diced medium onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
2. Bloom the Tomatoes: Add 28 oz (800 g) of canned crushed tomatoes, 1 (14.5 oz / 400 g) can diced tomatoes, undrained, and 1 teaspoon sugar to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the Seasonings: Stir in 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) to the simmering tomato mixture.
4. Simmer and Thicken: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the soup for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
5. Blend for Smoothness: Using an immersion blender or carefully transferring the soup to a regular blender, blend the soup until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
6. Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add 1-2 cups of water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
7. Finish and Serve: Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional) for added richness. Heat through and serve the soup hot.

Enjoy your homemade Panera Bread Tomato Soup! You can pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich or a side salad for a complete meal.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Panera Bread Tomato Soup

Take your soup-making skills to the next level with these expert tips and tricks.

Roasting Brings Depth of Flavor

Roasting the tomatoes before blending them into the soup is a game-changer. It caramelizes their natural sugars and intensifies their flavor. Simply cut the tomatoes in half, toss with olive oil, salt, and your choice of aromatics (e.g., garlic, onion), and roast at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes.

Don’t Overcook the Soup

Avoid overcooking the soup, which can lead to a bland, mushy texture. Instead, cook it until the flavors have melded together and the soup has reduced slightly. This will help preserve the vibrant color and freshness of the tomatoes.

Acidity Balances the Richness

A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of red wine vinegar can add a welcome brightness to the soup. This acidity helps balance the richness of the cream and tomatoes, creating a more well-rounded flavor profile.

• Use high-quality canned tomatoes for a deeper flavor.
• Don’t skip the step of deglazing the pan with a little water or broth to release the flavorful browned bits.
• Experiment with different spices and herbs to make the soup your own.

Substitutions and Alternatives for Panera Bread Tomato Soup

To accommodate various tastes and dietary restrictions, consider these substitutions in the Panera Bread Tomato Soup recipe:

• For a dairy-free version, replace 240 g / 1 cup of heavy cream with 240 g / 1 cup of coconut cream or non-dairy milk alternative, adjusting the amount to achieve the desired consistency.
• Instead of 15 g / 1 tablespoon of butter, use 15 g / 1 tablespoon of olive oil or avocado oil for a lighter flavor.
• To reduce sodium, limit the 10 g / 2 teaspoons of salt to 5 g / 1 teaspoon or use a low-sodium broth.

Flavor note: When substituting ingredients, the overall flavor profile may vary slightly. For example, coconut cream adds a distinct richness, while non-dairy milk alternatives may produce a lighter taste.

These substitutions allow for flexibility in the recipe without compromising the core flavor of the Panera Bread Tomato Soup, which is typically cooked at 180°C / 350°F for 20-25 minutes.

Creative Variations on Panera Bread Tomato Soup

Panera’s Tomato Soup is a beloved classic, but why stop at the original? Here are a few ideas to take your soup game to the next level:

1. Creamy Roasted Tomato Soup

   Roast your tomatoes with garlic and herbs before blending for a richer, more complex flavor. Add a dollop of heavy cream or coconut milk for extra creaminess. *Flavor:* Deeper, earthier notes. *Time:* 15-20 minutes extra for roasting.

2. Spicy Southwest Tomato Soup

   Kick things up a notch with diced jalapeños, cumin, smoked paprika, and a squeeze of lime juice. Top with crumbled tortilla chips and avocado for a satisfying crunch. *Flavor:* Smoky, spicy, and tangy. *Time:* Minimal, just adjust the simmer time for the spices.

3. Mediterranean Tomato Soup

   Add a Mediterranean twist with sun-dried tomatoes, olives, capers, and fresh basil. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of feta cheese complete the dish. *Flavor:* Bright, herbaceous, and salty. *Time:* Minimal, just add the ingredients during the simmering process.

Storing and Reheating Panera Bread Tomato Soup: Tips for Optimal Freshness

After enjoying a warm, comforting bowl of Panera Bread Tomato Soup, you may be wondering how to keep it fresh for later. Proper storage and reheating techniques are crucial to maintaining the soup’s flavor and texture.

Short-Term Storage (Up to 3 Days)

• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.
• Transfer the soup to an airtight container, such as a glass or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid.
• Store the container in the refrigerator at a temperature of 4°C (39°F) or below.

Long-Term Storage (Up to 3 Months)

• Transfer the cooled soup to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag.
• Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
• Store the container or bag in the freezer at -18°C (0°F) or below.

Reheating Instructions

When reheating, make sure the soup reaches a minimum internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) to ensure food safety.

• Refrigerated soup: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• Frozen soup: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as above.

By following these storage and reheating guidelines, you can enjoy your Panera Bread Tomato Soup at its best, every time.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Panera Bread Tomato Soup

Even with a reliable recipe, issues can arise when making Panera Bread Tomato Soup. To ensure a perfect, creamy soup, it’s essential to identify and address common problems. The following are some typical issues and their solutions:

• Too thick: if the soup becomes too thick, add a little more chicken or vegetable broth (120 ml / 1/2 cup) and heat it through at 82°C / 180°F.
• Not creamy enough: add more heavy cream (60 g / 1/4 cup) or half-and-half (60 g / 1/4 cup) and stir well over low heat at 71°C / 160°F.
• Bitter taste: this can be due to over-extraction of tomato solids; try straining the soup through a fine-mesh sieve or adding a pinch of sugar (5 g / 1 tsp) to balance the flavor.
• Not hot enough: reheat the soup to 82°C / 180°F, whisking constantly to prevent scorching.

By being aware of these potential issues and their solutions, you can ensure a delicious, restaurant-quality Panera Bread Tomato Soup every time. Remember to taste and adjust as you go, and don’t hesitate to experiment with small adjustments to achieve the perfect flavor and consistency.

Nutrition Information for Panera Bread Tomato Soup

This comforting Panera Bread Tomato Soup is a flavorful way to enjoy a nutritious meal. Each serving provides a good source of vitamin C, which supports your immune system and acts as an antioxidant.

While delicious, it’s important to be mindful of the sodium content. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional highlights per serving:

• Calories: 150
• Total Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 20g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 7g
• Protein: 5g

Note: This information is an estimate and may vary slightly depending on preparation methods and specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions about Panera Bread Tomato Soup

Get the answers you need to common questions about this beloved soup.

• What is the secret ingredient in Panera Bread’s tomato soup? While we can’t reveal the exact formula, our recipe includes a blend of fresh tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs for a rich, comforting flavor.
• How do I make a creamier tomato soup? Simply add 1/4 cup (60 ml) of heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end of cooking time. This will give your soup a luxurious texture without overpowering the flavors.
• Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh? Yes, but keep in mind that canned tomatoes may affect the soup’s flavor and texture. Choose a high-quality, low-sodium option and adjust seasoning accordingly.
• How long does homemade tomato soup last in the fridge? Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
• Can I freeze tomato soup for later? Yes, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.

Key Takeaways for Making the Perfect Panera Bread Tomato Soup

To create a truly exceptional Panera Bread Tomato Soup, several key elements must come together. Firstly, using high-quality ingredients is crucial, including 400 g / 2 cups of fresh tomatoes and 30 g / 2 tablespoons of butter.

• Roasting 400 g / 2 cups of tomatoes in the oven at 200°C / 400°F enhances the depth of flavor.
• Onions and garlic, sautéed in butter until softened, add a richness to the soup.
• A mixture of 475 ml / 2 cups of chicken broth and 120 ml / 1/2 cup of heavy cream creates a creamy, velvety texture.

Seasoning with salt and black pepper is essential to bring out the flavors. By following these key takeaways and using the right ingredients in the right proportions, a delicious and authentic Panera Bread Tomato Soup can be achieved.

A Little Slice of Cozy: The Story Behind This Panera Tomato Soup

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of tomato soup. It’s a flavor that evokes memories of childhood, rainy days, and simple pleasures. When I was craving that classic Panera Tomato Soup taste, I decided to recreate it at home.

My goal wasn’t to simply copy their recipe, but to capture the essence of what makes it so special. That creamy, slightly sweet, and perfectly tangy flavor profile. I experimented with different tomatoes, herbs, and spices until I landed on a combination that truly hit the spot.

This recipe is a labor of love, born from a desire to share a taste of cozy with you. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting lunch, this Panera-inspired tomato soup is sure to become a new favorite.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Delicious Panera Bread Tomato Soup

With this authentic Panera Bread Tomato Soup recipe, you’ve successfully recreated the comforting flavors of your favorite café at home.

Take a moment to appreciate the rich, velvety texture and the perfect balance of tangy and sweet notes that make this soup truly special.

We encourage you to share this recipe with friends and family, and don’t be afraid to experiment with new variations.

For more mouthwatering soup recipes, be sure to check out our collection of homemade favorites, including creamy broths and hearty stews.