Cheddar Tomato Soup
A creamy, flavorful tomato soup with sharp cheddar cheese and fresh basil, perfect for cozy lunches or elegant starters that appeal to cheese lovers and tomato enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine tomatoes, onions, and celery in a food processor and blend until coarsely chopped.
- Pour into a large saucepan, add chicken stock, and bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.
- Add cream to the soup.
- Season with ground basil, salt, and pepper.
- Cook over very low heat for 5 minutes.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese and cook, stirring constantly, until the cheese melts.
- Serve the soup immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, roast the tomatoes before blending. If fresh tomatoes are out of season, canned whole tomatoes can be a great substitute. You can also use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian option. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste, and consider adding a pinch of sugar to balance acidity if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheddar tomato soup with a crusty bread for dipping or alongside a fresh salad for a light meal. It pairs beautifully with Chicken Salad Sandwiches or Cheesy Fish Soup for a comforting lunch. Garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of extra cheddar for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid bringing it to a boil after adding the cheese, as this can cause it to become grainy. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar Tomato Soup contains roughly 976 calories, with 84g protein, 152g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (413% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and protein (168% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2603mg per serving (113% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, you can make this soup vegan by replacing the cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock, and omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute for a dairy-free version.
How can I thicken the soup if it's too thin?
If your soup is too thin, you can thicken it by adding a slurry of cornstarch and water, or by blending in a small amount of cooked potatoes. Another option is to simmer it longer to reduce the liquid until your desired consistency is reached.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. Just chop them small and add them to the food processor with the tomatoes, onions, and celery before cooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).