Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

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There are days when life feels like a juggling act—work deadlines, school pickups, grocery runs—and by the time dinner rolls around, you just want something warm, filling, and, let’s be honest, a little indulgent. That’s exactly where Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings swoops in to save the evening.

It’s everything you love about classic tomato soup—velvety, tangy, and soothing—but taken to the next level with fluffy cheddar bay dumplings that float like little clouds of cheesy joy. Think of it as a warm hug for your taste buds.

And here’s the kicker: this recipe is simple enough for a Tuesday night yet special enough to serve when friends drop by. (Bonus points if you make a double batch—because trust me, the leftovers are gold.)

Why You’ll Love This Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

Quick Comfort: Ready in under an hour but tastes like it simmered all day.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters can’t say no to dumplings.
One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes = more time to kick your feet up after dinner.
Restaurant-Style Flavor: That cheddar bay biscuit mix? Absolute magic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 tablespoons butter
1 sweet onion, chopped
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups chicken stock
43.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes (with liquid)
1 teaspoon sugar
¾ teaspoon coarse salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
11-ounce packet cheddar bay biscuit mix
2 tablespoons butter (for brushing)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Base Ingredients

In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent. Add flour and stir for 1 minute—this forms a light roux that gives the soup body.

Step 2: Add Liquids and Seasonings

Slowly pour in chicken stock and canned tomatoes while stirring to keep things smooth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Season with sugar, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Puree the Soup (Optional)

Want that restaurant-smooth finish? Puree the soup in batches with a blender, then return it to the pot. If chunky and rustic is more your style, skip this step—it’s equally delicious either way.

Step 4: Cook the Dumplings

Prepare the cheddar bay biscuit mix per package directions. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the simmering soup. Cover and cook 15–20 minutes, until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.

Step 5: Butter Sauce & Serve

Melt 2 tablespoons butter and stir in the seasoning packet from the biscuit mix. Brush (or spoon) this buttery goodness over the dumplings right in the pot. Serve piping hot.

Cooking Tips from My Kitchen

Don’t peek! Keep that lid closed while the dumplings steam—lifting it too often can make them dense.
Make it vegetarian: Swap chicken stock for veggie broth and you’re set.
Extra indulgence: Sprinkle a little shredded cheddar over the soup before serving. Cheese makes everything better, right?

A Little Storytime

This recipe quickly became my “rescue meal” during one hectic week when my kids had back-to-back soccer practices and I was this close to ordering takeout…again. One pot, minimal fuss, and suddenly everyone at the table was dipping dumplings and asking for seconds. It felt like magic (and a small mom win).

Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings in a white dish, garnished with fresh herbs. — A comforting bowl of Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings—perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends.

FAQs About Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just blanch, peel, and chop about 3 pounds of ripe tomatoes. Simmer them a little longer to cook down the juices.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Pop cooled soup with dumplings into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to keep dumplings soft.

Can I freeze this soup?

The soup base freezes beautifully, but the dumplings don’t hold up as well. If you’re meal-prepping, freeze the soup without dumplings, then add fresh ones when you reheat.

Cozy Nights Call for Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings

When the day feels long and the couch is calling your name, this Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings is exactly the kind of comfort you deserve. It’s warm, cheesy, and impossibly satisfying—the kind of meal that makes your kitchen smell like a little corner café. Trust me, one spoonful and you’ll be adding this recipe to your regular rotation.

More Cozy Recipes You’ll Love

If this Tomato Soup with Cheddar Bay Dumplings warmed your soul, you’ll want to check out a few more comforting dishes that bring the same cozy vibes:

Craving another creamy, cheesy bowl of goodness? Try this White Lasagna Soup that tastes like pasta and soup had the dreamiest baby.
For a protein-packed weeknight dinner, this High Protein Mediterranean Chicken Orzo is flavorful, filling, and comes together fast.
Want a creative twist on classic comfort food? These Shepherd’s Pie Baked Potatoes are hearty, fun, and perfect for family dinners.
If you’re a fan of soups with bold flavors, don’t miss the Mexican Street Corn Soup—it’s creamy, zesty, and downright addictive.