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There’s something magical about a warm bowl of tomato soup. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you just need a comforting, satisfying meal, Panera’s tomato soup always hits the spot. It’s smooth, creamy, and packed with the deep, rich flavors of tomatoes, garlic, and basil. The best part? You don’t have to go to Panera to enjoy it!
With this copycat Panera tomato soup recipe, you can recreate that same velvety, slightly sweet, and perfectly seasoned soup in your own kitchen. Using simple pantry staples, fresh ingredients, and a few pro tips, you’ll have a homemade version that’s even better than the restaurant’s.
So, grab your pot, get cozy, and let’s make some creamy, dreamy tomato soup!
Why You’ll Love This Copycat Panera Tomato Soup Recipe
- Super creamy & rich – The perfect texture thanks to heavy cream and butter.
- Incredibly flavorful – Balanced sweetness, tanginess, and a touch of basil.
- Easy to make – A one-pot recipe ready in just 40 minutes!
- Better than store-bought – No preservatives, just wholesome goodness.
- Pairs perfectly with grilled cheese – The ultimate comfort food combination.
What Does Panera Tomato Soup Taste Like?
Panera’s tomato soup is ultra-smooth, rich, and slightly sweet with deep tomato flavor. The combination of San Marzano tomatoes, garlic, onion, and basil gives it a restaurant-quality taste, while a touch of sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. It’s finished with cream and butter for a luxurious, velvety texture.
If you love a thick, creamy, slightly tangy tomato soup with just the right amount of savory and sweet flavors, you’re going to love this copycat version!
Ingredients for Copycat Panera Tomato Soup
To make this delicious tomato soup at home, you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 (28-ounce) cans of San Marzano tomatoes (or any high-quality canned tomatoes)
- 1 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer taste)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 small carrot, peeled and diced (adds natural sweetness)
- ½ small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar (balances acidity)
- ½ teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh basil leaves
- A drizzle of heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
- Croutons
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Immersion blender (or regular blender)
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
How to Make Copycat Panera Tomato Soup
1. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and diced carrot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
2. Add Tomatoes & Simmer
Pour in the canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, salt, pepper, sugar, and basil. Stir well, breaking up the tomatoes with a spoon. Bring to a gentle simmer and let cook, covered, for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Blend Until Smooth
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, transfer the soup in batches and blend until smooth. Be sure to let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid splattering!
4. Stir in Cream & Butter
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and an extra tablespoon of butter for a silkier texture. Let the soup simmer for 5 more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Taste & Adjust Seasoning
Give your soup a taste! Add more salt, pepper, or sugar if needed. If you like a spicier soup, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
6. Serve & Enjoy!
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil, a drizzle of cream, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve with grilled cheese, crusty bread, or homemade croutons for the ultimate meal!
What to Serve with Panera-Style Tomato Soup
Classic Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Nothing pairs better with tomato soup than a melty, crispy grilled cheese sandwich. Try using a mix of cheddar, gouda, or provolone for the perfect cheesy bite!
Garlic Bread or Croutons
Dip crispy garlic bread into the soup, or top your bowl with homemade croutons for extra crunch.
Fresh Salad
Balance the richness of the soup with a light, refreshing salad. A simple arugula or Caesar salad works perfectly!
Chicken Salad Wrap
For a heartier meal, serve this soup alongside a delicious chicken salad wrap. The creamy chicken pairs wonderfully with the tangy tomato soup!
Air Fryer Salmon
Looking for a protein-packed pairing? Try frozen salmon in the air fryer for a healthy, balanced meal.
Mexican Tacos
If you want something fun and flavorful, serve this soup with homemade Mexican tacos. It’s an unexpected combo, but totally delicious!
Tips for the Best Tomato Soup
- Use San Marzano tomatoes – They’re naturally sweeter and less acidic, making for a richer soup.
- Blend well – To get that signature smooth texture, blend the soup thoroughly.
- Adjust sweetness & acidity – If the soup is too tangy, add a pinch of sugar or a splash of cream.
- Make it vegan – Swap heavy cream for coconut milk and use vegan butter.
How to Store & Reheat
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Let the soup cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs About Panera Tomato Soup
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes! Use 2 pounds of ripe Roma or vine tomatoes, roast them at 400°F for 30 minutes, and blend them into the soup.
Is Panera tomato soup vegetarian?
Yes, Panera’s version is vegetarian! This recipe can also be made vegan with simple swaps.
How do I make the soup thicker?
Simmer the soup longer to reduce the liquid or add an extra carrot for natural thickness.
Does this soup taste exactly like Panera’s?
It’s very close! Many say it’s even better because you can adjust the flavors to your liking.
Final Thoughts: Make This Cozy Tomato Soup Today!
There’s nothing like a warm, comforting bowl of homemade Panera-style tomato soup to make your day better. Whether you’re craving something cozy, need an easy weeknight dinner, or just want the perfect dip for your grilled cheese, this recipe delivers.
Try it today, and let me know how it turns out! Don’t forget to leave a review, share your photos on Pinterest, and check out these other amazing recipes:
Happy cooking!
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