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 November 30, 2025

Main Dishes

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

The Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings is a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly day or serving a delightful meal to guests, this recipe stands out with its rich flavors and soft, cheesy dumplings. Easy to prepare and full of deliciousness, it’s a dish that brings joy to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Simple: With just 40 minutes from prep to table, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Rich Flavor: The combination of sweet onions and canned tomatoes creates a deep, satisfying taste.
Comforting Texture: The cheddar bay dumplings add a fluffy, cheesy element that pairs wonderfully with the soup.
Versatile Meal: Great as a starter or main course, it pairs well with salads or crusty bread.
Family-Friendly: Kids love the dumplings, making it an easy way to get them excited about healthy veggies.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline your process and ensure success.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk

Why These Tools Matter

Large pot: A must-have for simmering your soup evenly without splattering.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in your ingredients for the best results.
Whisk: Helps blend the flour smoothly into the soup for a creamy texture.

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

In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped sweet onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 2: Create the Base

Sprinkle in the flour while continuously stirring for about 1 minute. This will create a roux that thickens your soup. Gradually pour in the chicken stock while whisking to combine smoothly.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Add the canned diced tomatoes (with their liquid), sugar, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes to develop flavors.

Step 4: Prepare Dumpling Mixture

In a separate bowl, follow the instructions on the cheddar bay biscuit mix packet. Typically, you will add water or milk along with melted butter (2 tablespoons) until combined but do not overmix.

Step 5: Cook Dumplings on Soup

Once your soup has simmered, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter onto the surface of the soup. Cover and cook for an additional 15 minutes until dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.

Enjoy your deliciously warm bowl of Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings!

How to Serve Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

Serving up the Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few creative touches. Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Pair with Fresh Herbs

Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top of the soup for a burst of color and flavor.
Chives: Finely chop chives and add them as a topping for an oniony freshness.

Add a Side Salad

Mixed Greens: A simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette can complement the richness of the soup.
Caesar Salad: A Caesar salad adds a crunchy texture that pairs nicely with the creamy soup.

Create a Bread Basket

Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for dipping, enhancing the overall experience.
Crusty Rolls: Freshly baked rolls can be used to scoop up the delicious soup.

Enjoy with Grilled Cheese

Classic Grilled Cheese: Pair your soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting combo.
Cheddar and Tomato Panini: Upgrade your sandwich by using cheddar cheese and fresh tomatoes in a panini.

How to Perfect Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

To elevate your Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings, here are some essential tips to ensure it’s perfect every time.

Bold flavors: Use high-quality canned tomatoes; they will enhance the soup’s taste significantly.
Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or sugar as needed for balance.
Simmer longer: Letting the soup simmer longer helps deepen the flavors; consider simmering for an additional 10 minutes.
Creamy texture: For added creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

Pairing side dishes with your Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

Grilled Chicken Salad: A light salad featuring grilled chicken adds protein and complements the soup’s flavors.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring out natural sweetness and add healthy variety to your meal.
Stuffed Peppers: Stuffed bell peppers filled with rice and ground turkey create a filling side that pairs wonderfully.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to the savory soup.
Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf provides texture while being nutritious and satisfying.
Cheesy Garlic Toasts: These are perfect for dipping into the soup while adding extra flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings can be a joy, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

Skipping the Sautéing Step: Failing to sauté the onion properly can result in a bland soup. Always take the time to cook it until it’s translucent and fragrant.
Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Improper measurements can alter the taste and texture. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
Using Low-Quality Tomatoes: The base of your soup is tomatoes, so choose high-quality canned diced tomatoes for the best flavor. Look for brands with no added sugars or preservatives.
Overmixing the Dumpling Batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough dumplings. Stir gently until just combined for light and fluffy results.
Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can leave your soup flat. Taste it as you go, adjusting salt and pepper according to your preference.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal taste.

Freezing Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
Store in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty plastic bags.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make the Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings vegan?

You can make this recipe vegan by substituting chicken stock with vegetable broth and using plant-based butter for both the soup and dumplings.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes! You can certainly use fresh tomatoes. Just ensure they are ripe and juicy; you’ll need about 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes to match the volume of canned tomatoes.

What is Cheddar Bay biscuit mix?

Cheddar Bay biscuit mix is a convenient blend of flour, cheese, and seasonings designed specifically for making cheddar biscuits. You can find it in most grocery stores.

How long does this tomato soup keep in the fridge?

The Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days when stored properly.

Can I add vegetables to my tomato soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped carrots, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

The Best Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. Customize it by adding your favorite herbs or veggies for a personal touch. We encourage you to try this delicious recipe that is sure to warm your heart!