Go Back
Panera Bread Tomato Soup recipe

Panera Bread Tomato Soup Recipe

Panera Bread Tomato Soup is a rich, creamy, and flavorful soup inspired by the restaurant's beloved version. Made with simple ingredients like crushed tomatoes, garlic, onions, and a touch of heavy cream, it’s a comforting dish perfect for any time of the year. This recipe is quick and easy, taking only 40 minutes to prepare from start to finish.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 cans 28 ounces each crushed tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 2 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth for added richness
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for dairy-free option
  • 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil or 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Croutons or fresh basil leaves for garnish optional

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Immersion blender (or regular blender)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Ladle

Method
 

Sauté the Aromatics:
  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Stir in the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute, stirring frequently.
Add Tomatoes and Broth:
  1. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste and vegetable broth.
  2. Stir to combine.
Season the Soup:
  1. Stir in the sugar, dried basil, salt and pepper.
  2. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low
  3. Let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Blend the Soup:
  1. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup in the pot until smooth.
  2. Or, ladle the soup into a blender in batches, then transfer it back to the pot.
Add the Cream:
  1. Add the heavy cream and simmer the soup for five more minutes.
  2. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Serve and Garnish:
  1. If using, serve the soup in bowls and top it with croutons or fresh basil if you are using them.
  2. Serve hot with grilled cheese, crusty bread, or a salad.

Notes

Tomatoes: High-quality canned tomatoes like San Marzano enhance the flavor.
Thicker Soup: Reduce the broth slightly for a thicker consistency.
Panera Bread Tomato Soup recipe
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream.
Panera Bread Tomato Soup recipe