This Tomato Soup with Cheese Dumplings is a warm and cozy dish that’s perfect for any day you want something comforting and a little special. The soup itself is smooth and tangy, made from ripe tomatoes that give it that classic, fresh flavor. What really makes it shine are the soft, cheesy dumplings that float right on top, adding a little bite and a whole lot of deliciousness.
I love making this soup when I want a meal that feels like a warm hug. The dumplings are surprisingly easy to make, and they have just the right amount of cheese that melts in your mouth with every spoonful. It’s one of those recipes where the simple ingredients come together to create something truly satisfying. I always like to get the kids involved in dropping the dumplings into the soup—it’s a fun little kitchen moment that makes the whole meal even better.
When I serve this, I usually pair it with some crusty bread or a light salad to keep things balanced. It’s a great meal for chilly evenings or when you’re feeling like you need a bit of comfort food without too much fuss. And honestly, it’s so tasty that leftovers never last long in my house. Give this one a try—I think you’ll find it’s a new favorite for cozy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes bring the best flavor but canned whole tomatoes work great too, especially when fresh aren’t in season. If you want a smoother soup, peeled tomatoes are ideal.
Cheese for Dumplings: Cheddar gives a nice sharpness, but parmesan or a mix can add depth. For a milder taste, mozzarella or Monterey Jack works well. Choose what you like!
Herbs: Fresh parsley, basil, or chives add a fresh note to the dumplings. Dried herbs can be used if fresh aren’t available, but reduce the amount since dried herbs are stronger.
Vegetable Broth: You can substitute with chicken broth or just use water with extra seasoning if preferred.
How Do You Make Light and Tender Cheese Dumplings?
To get fluffy dumplings, the batter should be thick but not stiff. Don’t overmix after adding wet ingredients—mix until just combined to keep them light.
- Whisk dry ingredients separately for even baking powder distribution.
- Fold in the cheese and herbs gently.
- Drop spoonfuls carefully onto gently simmering soup.
- Keep the soup covered and avoid stirring so dumplings cook evenly and puff up.
Check dumplings with a toothpick—they should come out clean when done. This gentle cooking helps avoid dense dumplings.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – perfect for simmering the tomato soup evenly without spilling.
- Immersion blender or regular blender – to puree the soup smooth in no time.
- Mixing bowls – handy for combining dumpling ingredients without mess.
- Spoons – one for stirring the soup and one for dropping dumplings gently.
- Lid for the pot – traps steam to help dumplings cook and puff up perfectly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap cheddar for feta or goat cheese in the dumplings for a tangy twist that brightens the soup.
- Add fresh spinach or kale to the soup for extra color and nutrients.
- Stir in cooked bacon or pancetta bits before serving to add a smoky flavor.
- Use fresh rosemary or thyme instead of parsley for a woodsy herb note in the dumplings.
Tomato Soup with Cheese Dumplings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tomato Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 cups fresh ripe tomatoes, chopped (or canned whole tomatoes)
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley leaves, for garnish
For the Cheese Dumplings:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar, parmesan, or a mix)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or basil)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
Time You’ll Need:
Preparing and cooking this tomato soup with cheese dumplings will take about 40 minutes. This includes 15 minutes to make the soup, 10 minutes to prepare dumplings, and 15 minutes cooking dumplings in the soup. It’s a quick, cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Tomato Soup:
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then add minced garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Toss in the chopped tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes or until the tomatoes begin to break down.
Next, pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for 10 minutes to blend the flavors. Once ready, carefully puree the soup with an immersion blender or by transferring it to a blender, and then return the smooth soup to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and sugar if you’re using it, then keep it warm on low heat.
2. Making the Cheese Dumplings:
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the grated cheese and chopped fresh herbs until evenly mixed. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and milk together, then pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently mix until all is combined into a thick batter—try not to overmix, as this keeps the dumplings tender.
3. Cooking the Dumplings in the Soup:
Carefully drop small spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering soup. Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings cook for about 10-15 minutes without stirring. They’ll puff up and become cooked through, tender with a slight firmness on the outside.
4. Serving:
Ladle the soup into bowls, making sure each portion has some cheese dumplings. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley leaves for a fresh touch. Serve the soup hot, ideally with a side of crusty bread to enjoy every bit.
Enjoy your warm and comforting Tomato Soup with Cheese Dumplings!
Can I Use Frozen Tomatoes for the Soup?
Yes, frozen tomatoes work well if fresh ones aren’t available. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before cooking to avoid a watery soup.
Can I Make the Cheese Dumplings Ahead of Time?
It’s best to cook the dumplings fresh in the soup for the best texture. However, you can prepare the batter a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated, then drop them in just before serving.
How Should I Store Leftover Soup and Dumplings?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent the dumplings from becoming too dense.
Can I Substitute the Cheese in the Dumplings?
Absolutely! Cheddar, parmesan, or a mix works great, but you can also use mozzarella, feta, or goat cheese depending on your flavor preference. Just keep in mind the melting qualities of the cheese you choose.
