Panera Bread Tomato Soup

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Creamy, comforting, and bursting with tangy tomato flavor, this Panera Bread Tomato Soup is the ultimate cozy-day meal. It delivers the same rich, velvety texture you love from the café, but now you can make it right in your kitchen with simple ingredients. Whether you’re dipping grilled cheese or savoring it solo, this soup is sure to warm you up inside and out.

With a smooth blend of ripe tomatoes, aromatic garlic, herbs, and a splash of cream, it’s no wonder this copycat version of Panera’s fan-favorite soup is such a hit. It’s perfect for batch cooking, meal prep, or a quick weeknight dinner that tastes like it took all day to make.

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What Kind of Tomatoes Should I Use?

For the most authentic Panera-style flavor, use fire-roasted canned tomatoes or San Marzano tomatoes. These bring boldness and depth to the soup. You can also use fresh Roma tomatoes if they’re in season and well-ripened—just roast them for extra intensity.

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Ingredients for the Panera Bread Tomato Soup

• Fire-Roasted Tomatoes – The key ingredient that gives this soup its smoky, robust base.
• Carrots – For a subtle sweetness and depth that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Yellow Onion – Brings savory body and aromatic flavor.
• Garlic – Adds richness and an earthy edge.
• Vegetable Broth – Keeps it vegetarian and enhances all the flavors.
• Tomato Paste – Intensifies the tomato flavor and adds umami.
• Heavy Cream – Delivers the luscious, creamy consistency.
• Butter – For silkiness and that comforting finish.
• Basil and Oregano – Classic herbs that round out the flavor beautifully.
• Sugar – Just a pinch to balance the natural acidity.
• Salt & Pepper – Season to perfection.

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How To Make the Panera Bread Tomato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add chopped onions and carrots, cooking until softened (about 5-7 minutes). Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Tomato Base

Add in tomato paste and stir to coat the vegetables. Then pour in the fire-roasted tomatoes and vegetable broth. Toss in the herbs and a pinch of sugar. Simmer everything for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Blend Until Smooth

Remove from heat. Use an immersion blender directly in the pot, or carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender. Blend until silky smooth.

Step 4: Add Creamy Goodness

Return the soup to the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it warm through gently—don’t let it boil. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

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Serving and Storing This Soup

Serve hot, topped with croutons, shredded Parmesan, and fresh basil. It pairs perfectly with a crusty grilled cheese sandwich or a slice of sourdough bread.

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

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What to Serve With Panera Bread Tomato Soup?

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

The classic combo! Try sourdough or ciabatta for the perfect crispy edge.

Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Rich, indulgent, and absolutely soul-warming. Try the recipe.

Southern Deviled Eggs

Creamy and tangy—a great cold contrast to the warm soup. Check them out here.

Parmesan Baked Potatoes

Crispy outside, soft inside. Great side option here.

Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins

For dessert or a sweet-savory pairing. See the recipe.

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Want More Soup Ideas?

If this creamy tomato soup hit the spot, here are a few more SavorQueen.com favorites to cozy up with:

• Cheeseburger Soup when you want something hearty and nostalgic.
• Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup for cheesy, meaty comfort.
• Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup perfect for set-it-and-forget-it ease.
• Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup if you love this one and want a garlic-kissed twist.
• Turkey Vegetable Soup for a healthy, satisfying lunch.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a splash of red pepper or a sprinkle of smoked paprika? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on Savor Queen’s Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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