Tomato Soup with Cheese Dumplings Recipe

If you’re craving a warm and comforting bowl that’s bursting with flavor and a touch of indulgence, this Tomato Soup with Cheese Dumplings is exactly what you need. The velvety tomato soup is deeply satisfying on its own, but the real magic happens when you add in fluffy cheese dumplings that melt in your mouth. It’s a beautiful balance of tangy, savory, and creamy that feels like a big, cozy hug with every spoonful. Whether you’re cooking for a chill evening at home or impressing friends with a unique twist on classic tomato soup, this recipe is guaranteed to steal the spotlight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient plays a vital role in making this Tomato Soup with Cheese Dumplings shine — from the sweet depth of the sweet potato to the fresh brightness of basil. These simple staples come together to create layers of flavor and perfect texture.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sauté the vegetables and adds a subtle fruity richness.
• 25 grams butter: Gives a silky smoothness and enhances overall depth.
• 1 onion, chopped: The savory base that sweetens as it cooks.
• ½ sweet potato, peeled and chopped: Adds natural sweetness and creamy thickness.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides fragrant warmth and a little zing.
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: A surprising touch that rounds out the tomato’s acidity.
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, torn: Brightens the soup with fresh herbal notes.
• 2 (400g) cans chopped tomatoes: The heart of the soup, packed with vibrant tomato flavor.
• 500ml chicken stock: Deepens the flavor and adds savory umami.
• ½ teaspoon sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly.
• 50ml single cream: Makes the soup luxuriously creamy.
• 125g dried breadcrumbs: Key for giving the dumplings their light, fluffy texture.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder: Helps the dumplings to rise slightly, making them tender.
• 75g mature cheddar, grated: Adds sharp, savory flavor to the dumplings.
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder: Lends a subtle kick to the cheese dumplings.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Herbs that complement the tomatoes and cheese perfectly.
• 1 egg: Binds the dumplings together beautifully.
• 50g cream cheese: Enriches the dumplings for creamy pockets of flavor.

How to Make Tomato Soup with Cheese Dumplings

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Start by heating olive oil and butter in a large pot over low heat. Add the chopped onion and sweet potato, cooking gently for about 5 to 10 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. This slow cooking brings out their natural sweetness, forming a flavorful foundation for the soup.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Next, stir in the minced garlic and ground cinnamon, cooking for just a minute until aromatic. Then toss in torn basil leaves, canned chopped tomatoes, and chicken stock. This blend of spices and herbs gives the soup its warm, inviting character.

Step 3: Cook Soup

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer covered for about 20 minutes. This step allows all the flavors to meld beautifully while softening the sweet potato completely.

Step 4: Make Dumplings

While the soup simmers, combine the dried breadcrumbs, baking powder, grated mature cheddar, mustard powder, dried oregano, egg, and cream cheese in a bowl. Mix everything into a stiff dough, then shape it into about eight small balls. These cheese dumplings are packed with bold flavor and tender texture.

Step 5: Blend Soup

Once the soup has cooked, blend it until smooth for that perfectly creamy consistency. Stir in sugar, salt, pepper, and single cream to taste. This balances the acidity and adds a silky finish that’s simply irresistible.

Step 6: Cook Dumplings

Drop the cheese dumplings gently into the simmering soup. Let them cook, uncovered, for 10 minutes without stirring so they keep their shape and fluff up. Serving two dumplings per bowl ensures each spoonful is rich and satisfying.

How to Serve Tomato Soup with Cheese Dumplings

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of extra cream on top elevates the presentation and adds freshness and creaminess. A few grated cheese shreds can also crown the soup beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve this Tomato Soup with Cheese Dumplings alongside crusty artisan bread or a warm garlic baguette for dipping. A simple green salad on the side can balance the richness nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try hollowed-out mini bread bowls or small soup crocks with a cheese dumpling floating on top. You can even shape the dumplings using small cookie cutters for a whimsical touch that’s sure to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool the soup completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, though the dumplings may absorb some liquid and lose a bit of their initial fluffiness.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the soup and dumplings separately. Freeze the soup in portions, and flash-freeze the dumplings on a tray before storing them in a freezer bag. This way, you’ll preserve texture and flavor for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently on the stove until warm. Add frozen dumplings directly to the simmering soup and cook until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. Avoid boiling vigorously to keep the dumplings tender.

FAQs

Can I make this Tomato Soup with Cheese Dumplings vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the chicken stock for vegetable stock and you’re good to go. The rich flavors of the soup and cheese dumplings will still shine without any meat-based ingredients.

What type of cheese works best in the dumplings?

A mature cheddar is ideal for a sharp and tangy flavor, but you could try Gruyère or a good quality aged cheese for a slightly different twist that’s equally delicious.

How can I make this soup vegan?

For a vegan version, use plant-based butter, replace chicken stock with vegetable stock, and substitute the cheese and cream with vegan alternatives. You can also try binding the dumplings with flaxseed egg or other vegan egg replacers.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the soup base and dumplings separately the day before. Keep them refrigerated and combine before reheating for a quick dinner that tastes freshly made.

Are there any tips for making the dumplings perfectly fluffy?

Make sure not to overmix the dumpling dough and handle them gently. Letting them cook gently without stirring will help them rise and stay light and fluffy.

Final Thoughts

This Tomato Soup with Cheese Dumplings has quickly become one of my favorite cozy meals to share. It’s the perfect balance of comforting, fresh, and a little bit special, making it a wonderful recipe to keep in your culinary rotation. Trust me, once you try this soul-warming dish, it’ll be one you come back to time and again. So grab your pot, get cooking, and enjoy every delicious spoonful.

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