There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of soup on a chilly evening, and this Cheese Dumpling Tomato Soup is the epitome of cozy warmth. Picture this: the rich aroma of sautéed garlic mingling with sweet onions, followed by the vibrant burst of crushed tomatoes – it’s a symphony of flavors that beckons you to the kitchen.
What makes this dish even more special is its versatility. Whether you’re craving a vegetarian version, need it to be gluten-free, or want to whip up a dairy-free delight, this recipe adapts effortlessly to fit your dietary needs. In just 30 minutes, you can indulge in a creamy, hearty soup crowned with fluffy dumplings that practically float in the velvety tomato base. Perfect for busy weeknights or a slow Sunday, this dish is destined to become a comforting staple in your home. Dive into the details below and discover how easy it is to create your own bowl of happiness!
Why You’ll Love Cheese Dumpling Tomato Soup
Comforting Delight: Warm yourself with creamy, velvety tomato soup paired with fluffy dumplings – a hug in a bowl!
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this is a perfect solution for hectic weeknight meals.
Customizable Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan preferences to satisfy everyone at your table.
Rich Flavor Fusion: Infused with sautéed garlic and onions, every spoonful is a burst of savory goodness.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this dish is sure to impress and warm hearts.
Indulge in this cozy classic that pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light side salad, making it the ultimate comforting meal.
Cheese Dumpling Tomato Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Olive Oil – Perfect for sautéing the aromatics; can substitute with canola or avocado oil.
• Yellow Onion – Provides a sweet, aromatic base; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
• Garlic – Adds depth of flavor; fresh is preferred, but dried also works.
• Tomato Paste – Enhances the tomato flavor in the soup; can be omitted if not available.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Optional for adding a bit of heat.
• Crushed Tomatoes – Forms the base of the soup; provides a rich, velvety texture.
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth – Adds depth to the flavor; water can be substituted.
• Granulated Sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes; honey or maple syrup are alternatives.
• Dried Basil – Provides herbal flavor; fresh herbs can elevate taste.
• Heavy Cream – Adds creaminess to the soup; coconut milk serves as a dairy-free option.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances overall flavor; adjust according to taste.
For the Dumplings
• Whole-Milk Ricotta – Creates fluffy dumplings; cottage cheese is a suitable substitute.
• Low-Moisture Mozzarella – Adds creaminess to the dumplings; fresh mozzarella can enhance texture.
• Parmesan Cheese – Imparts flavor to the dumplings; nutritional yeast can substitute for vegan needs.
• Egg – Binds dumpling ingredients; use a flax egg for a vegan option.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the dumplings; a gluten-free blend can also work.
• Baking Powder – Leavening agent for the dumplings; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
• Garlic Powder – For added flavor in the dumplings; fresh garlic can be used instead.
• Fresh Parsley – For color and a fresh taste; can be omitted.
Optional Garnishes
• Extra Grated Parmesan, Olive Oil, or Melted Butter – Dress up your soup for a beautiful finish.
This delightful Cheese Dumpling Tomato Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to your table!
How to Make Cheese Dumpling Tomato Soup
- Prepare the Soup Base:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic, tomato paste, and optional red pepper flakes; cook until fragrant, around 1-2 minutes. - Simmer Soup:
Stir in crushed tomatoes, broth, granulated sugar, and dried basil. Bring to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together beautifully. - Blend the Soup:
Blend the soup to your desired smoothness using an immersion blender or a traditional one. Stir in heavy cream and season it with kosher salt and black pepper according to taste. - Prepare Dumplings:
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, egg, flour, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and parsley. Mix until a thick batter forms, perfect for fluffy dumplings. - Cook Dumplings:
Carefully drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the barely simmering soup. Cover and cook for about 6-8 minutes, until they puff up and become delightful and airy. - Serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle the comforting soup into bowls, and finish with a sprinkle of extra parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil or melted butter for that gourmet touch.
Optional: Serve with crusty bread for dipping or a light side salad for a refreshing complement.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Cheese Dumpling Tomato Soup
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it fit your style and dietary preferences!
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the dumplings to keep everything fluffy and delightful.
- Vegan: Substitute ricotta and mozzarella with nut-based cheeses, and replace the egg with a flax egg for an effortlessly plant-based version. This twist will still provide that satisfying texture!
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to spice things up! The extra heat balances beautifully with the creamy soup.
- Herb Infusion: Enhance flavors by stirring in fresh thyme or oregano while the soup simmers. A little greenery always adds a pop of freshness.
- Protein Boost: For a heartier experience, mix in some cooked sausage or shredded chicken into the soup. It’s an easy way to turn this comforting dish into a meal.
- Veggie Delight: Toss in a generous handful of chopped spinach or kale for added nutrition. The greens wilt nicely and blend well with the creamy broth.
- Creamy Alternative: Swap out heavy cream for cashew cream or coconut milk to cater to dairy-free diets without compromising that silky mouthfeel.
- Cheesy Enhancement: If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle in extra parmesan or add a different cheese, like gouda or cheddar, into the soup for a new flavor profile.
Explore these variations and make this Cheese Dumpling Tomato Soup your very own comforting creation!
Storage Tips for Cheese Dumpling Tomato Soup
- Fridge: Store leftover Cheese Dumpling Tomato Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup base (without dumplings) in a properly sealed container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. If frozen, allow to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Dumpling Tip: For best texture, add fresh dumplings just before serving if reheating leftovers; this keeps them fluffy and delightful!
What to Serve with Cheese Dumpling Tomato Soup?
Savoring a bowl of creamy soup invites delightful pairings that enhance every bite.
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for dipping, soaking up the rich tomato broth and adding a satisfying texture.
- Garden Salad: A light, fresh salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the soup, making each mouthful feel balanced and refreshing.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these breadsticks add a comforting crunch that complements the fluffy dumplings beautifully. They are a fun, interactive addition to your meal.
- Cheesy Grilled Cheese Sandwich: This classic combination is sure to please and adds a playful twist. The melty cheese and crispy bread are simply irresistible alongside the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables brings warmth and nutrients, enhancing the comfort factor while adding delightful flavors and colors to your table.
- Red Wine: A glass of light-bodied red, like Pinot Noir, pairs wonderfully, accentuating the tomato’s acidity and complementing the dish’s heartiness.
Embrace these delicious pairings to elevate your dining experience and create a memorable meal.
Expert Tips for Cheese Dumpling Tomato Soup
- Gentle Simmer: Maintain a low heat when adding dumplings to avoid them breaking apart; a vigorous boil can ruin their fluffy texture.
- Consistent Thickness: If your soup is too thick after blending, add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Test Dumplings: After cooking, ensure dumplings are fluffy by gently pressing one; if it springs back, they’re perfect!
- Meal Prep: Make the soup base ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add dumplings fresh for best results.
- Fresh Herbs: Incorporating fresh herbs before serving can elevate the flavor of your Cheese Dumpling Tomato Soup and add a burst of color.
Cheese Dumpling Tomato Soup Recipe FAQs
What types of tomatoes are best for this soup?
Absolutely! Both canned and fresh tomatoes work wonderfully in this Cheese Dumpling Tomato Soup. For a richer flavor, opt for whole canned tomatoes that you crush yourself. If using fresh tomatoes, select ripe, deeply colored varieties, such as Roma or vine-ripened, as they’ll provide more flavor. Avoid any tomatoes with dark spots or those that feel overly soft.
How should I store leftovers of Cheese Dumpling Tomato Soup?
Store your leftover Cheese Dumpling Tomato Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to maintain its freshness. If you want to extend its life, consider freezing the soup base (without dumplings) for up to 3 months. It’s a perfect make-ahead meal!
Can I freeze the dumplings with the soup?
I recommend freezing the soup base separately. If you freeze the dumplings alongside the soup, they may become dense and lose their fluffy texture. To freeze, let the soup cool, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the soup and add freshly made dumplings right before serving.
What can I do if my dumplings fall apart in the soup?
Very! If your dumplings fall apart, check that your soup is at a gentle simmer – not a rolling boil. Try reducing the heat and letting the soup simmer quietly when adding the dumplings. If they continue to break, ensure that your mixture has the right consistency before cooking; it should form a thick batter when mixed.
Can I make this soup nut-free or dairy-free?
Absolutely! To accommodate dietary restrictions, simply swap out the cheeses for nut-based alternatives, like cashew cheese, and replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit until it thickens). This way, everyone can enjoy a comforting bowl of this delicious Cheese Dumpling Tomato Soup!
Indulgent Cheese Dumpling Tomato Soup That Warms the Soul
Equipment
- large pot
- Mixing bowl
- Immersion Blender
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil can substitute with canola or avocado oil
- 1 large Yellow Onion chopped; shallots can be used for a milder taste
- 3 cloves Garlic minced; fresh is preferred
- 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste can be omitted if not available
- 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes optional for heat
- 28 ounces Crushed Tomatoes forms the base of the soup
- 4 cups Chicken or Vegetable Broth water can be substituted
- 1 teaspoon Granulated Sugar balances acidity of tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Dried Basil fresh herbs can elevate taste
- 1 cup Heavy Cream coconut milk serves as a dairy-free option
- to taste Kosher Salt adjust according to taste
- to taste Black Pepper adjust according to taste
Dumplings
- 1 cup Whole-Milk Ricotta cottage cheese is a substitute
- 1 cup Low-Moisture Mozzarella fresh mozzarella can enhance texture
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese nutritional yeast for vegan options
- 1 large Egg use a flax egg for vegan option
- 1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour a gluten-free blend can work
- 1 tablespoon Baking Powder ensure it's fresh for best results
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder fresh garlic can be used
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley can be omitted
Optional Garnishes
- to taste Extra Grated Parmesan for serving
- to taste Olive Oil for serving
- to taste Melted Butter for serving
Instructions
Soup Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic, tomato paste, and optional red pepper flakes; cook until fragrant, around 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, broth, granulated sugar, and dried basil. Bring to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Blend the soup to your desired smoothness using an immersion blender or a traditional one. Stir in heavy cream and season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
Dumpling Preparation
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, egg, flour, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and parsley. Mix until a thick batter forms.
- Carefully drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the barely simmering soup. Cover and cook for about 6-8 minutes until they puff up.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and finish with a sprinkle of extra parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil or melted butter.
Notes
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