There’s something deeply satisfying about a warm bowl of tomato soup — and Panera Bread’s version sets the gold standard.
It’s creamy and smooth, with a hint of basil, just the right amount of tang, and a rich tomato flavor that pairs perfectly with grilled cheese (or a thick slice of sourdough). The good news? You don’t have to leave the house to enjoy it.
This copycat Panera Bread Tomato Soup Recipe is simple to make with pantry staples, and it’s every bit as velvety and flavorful as the real thing.
Whether you’re serving it for a cozy lunch or as a light dinner for the whole family, this soup is guaranteed to become a regular in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soup is cozy, creamy, and comes together in just one pot, making it perfect for busy nights. It’s rich without being too heavy and made with simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have.
Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly, it’s a meal you can make ahead and enjoy all week. Leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a reliable favorite for the whole family.
What You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 (28-ounce) cans whole peeled tomatoes (San Marzano recommended)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- ¾ cup heavy cream (or half and half)
- Optional: ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a subtle kick
Pro Tips
- Use San Marzano tomatoes for the best flavor — they’re naturally sweeter and less acidic.
- Simmer slowly — let the flavors deepen and mellow.
- Blend until smooth with an immersion blender or regular blender.
- Finish with cream at the end so it doesn’t curdle.
- Pair with grilled cheese for the ultimate comfort meal.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Immersion blender or high-speed blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
Substitutions & Variations
- Dairy-free: Use coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.
- Add protein: Stir in cooked white beans, shredded chicken, or lentils.
- Spicy version: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Herb twist: Use thyme or oregano in place of basil.
- Chunky style: Don’t blend completely — leave a few tomato pieces for texture.
Make Ahead Tips
Tomato soup is even better after it rests! You can make the full recipe up to 3 days ahead and store it in the fridge.
It also freezes beautifully — store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Instructions
1. Sauté Onion and Garlic
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5–6 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute more.
2. Add Tomato Paste and Seasonings
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor. Add salt, pepper, sugar, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Add Tomatoes and Simmer
Add the canned tomatoes with their juice and break them up with a spoon. Pour in the broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes.
4. Blend the Soup
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until completely smooth, or carefully transfer to a regular blender in batches.
5. Stir in Cream and Serve
Turn off the heat and stir in heavy cream. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh basil.
Leftovers & Storage
Store leftover soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use crushed tomatoes instead of whole?
Yes! Crushed tomatoes work well and may even reduce the blending time slightly.
2. Can I make it without cream?
Absolutely. For a lighter soup, skip the cream or use a splash of milk or broth instead.
3. Is this the same as Panera’s creamy tomato basil?
This is a close copycat — smooth, slightly sweet, and basil-kissed, just like theirs!
4. Can I add grilled cheese croutons?
Yes! Cube a grilled cheese sandwich, toast the pieces, and sprinkle on top for a fun twist.
The Final Spoonful
This Panera Bread Tomato Soup Recipe brings the warmth, comfort, and creamy richness of your favorite café right into your home kitchen.
It’s perfect for cozy lunches, meal prep, or cold nights when you just need something soothing and simple. Give it a try — and don’t forget the grilled cheese on the side!