As the cooler months approach, I find myself yearning for flavors that wrap me in warmth and comfort. There’s something truly captivating about the spicy aroma wafting from a pot of my Spicy Tomato Cheddar Soup, its vibrant red hue promising both zest and indulgence. This recipe wasn’t just a kitchen experiment; it emerged as a favorite during busy weeknights when all I sought was a quick, satisfying meal without sacrificing flavor.
Imagine this: you come home after a long day, and with just a handful of ingredients—fresh tomatoes, rich cheddar, and perfectly crispy homemade croutons—you can create an incredible dish that rivals any restaurant’s best offering. In less than 40 minutes, this creamy, savory soup transforms your evening into a cozy sanctuary, making it the perfect antidote to the chaos of everyday life. Are you ready to dive into comfort food heaven? Let’s get cooking!
Why will you love Spicy Tomato Cheddar Soup?
Comfortingly Creamy: This soup is a hug in a bowl, delivering smooth textures that make it irresistibly cozy.
Flavor Explosion: The bold blend of cheddar and spices creates a savory profile that dances on your palate.
Quick and Easy: In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a delightful meal, perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile Options: Customize it with roasted red peppers or fresh herbs for a twist that suits your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Whether it’s family dinner or a gathering with friends, this soup is sure to impress everyone!
Elevate your meal experience by serving it alongside a light salad or a classic grilled cheese, striking the ultimate comfort food balance.
Spicy Tomato Cheddar Soup Ingredients
Made with love and warmth, these ingredients come together to create a comforting bowl of Spicy Tomato Cheddar Soup.
For the Soup
• Baguette – Perfect for making homemade croutons; feel free to substitute with any crusty bread you have on hand.
• Extra-virgin olive oil – Adds flavor and helps crisp the croutons; melted butter works great as an alternative.
• Yellow onion – The aromatic base of the soup; shallots can be used for a milder taste if preferred.
• Garlic – Brings out the best flavors and aromas; garlic powder is a handy substitute if you’re short on fresh garlic.
• Tomato paste – Essential for adding depth and richness to this spicy tomato cheddar soup.
• All-purpose flour – Thickens the soup beautifully; swap it for cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
• Whole peeled tomatoes (28 oz. can) – Provides the body and sweetness of the soup; crushed tomatoes can be a good substitute too.
• Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth – Provides moisture and enhances flavor; help keep it lighter with low-sodium options.
• Paprika – Adds warmth and a touch of smokiness to this comforting dish.
• Granulated sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes; you can omit it or use honey if you’re looking for a natural sweetener.
• Kosher salt – Elevates the overall flavor of the soup.
• Tillamook Farmstyle Thick Cut Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Melts lovingly on top for a wonderful richness; any sharp cheddar will do!
• Tillamook Fine Cut Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Adds a lovely texture; feel free to mix it up with your favorite cheeses.
• Homemade croutons – Provides that lovely crunch you need; they’re best when made fresh!
• Red pepper flakes – A dash adds a delightful spicy kick; adjust to your liking for just the right amount of heat.
Get ready to enjoy a delicious bowl of comfort that’s quick and satisfying—your taste buds will thank you!
How to Make Spicy Tomato Cheddar Soup
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Prep Croutons: Start by cutting the baguette into cubes and tossing them with olive oil. Spread the cubes out on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
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Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
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Build Soup Base: Stir in the tomato paste, followed by the flour, using a whisk to combine. Then add the whole peeled tomatoes, breaking them up a bit with a spoon. Pour in your broth and season with paprika, sugar, and salt.
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Simmer: Let the soup simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes until it thickens. For a smooth texture, use an immersion blender or carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and blend until silky.
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Add Cheese: Remove the soup from heat and stir in the Tillamook cheddar cheese until it melts and becomes smooth. Serve hot, garnished with crispy croutons and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra spice.
Optional: Serve with a side of fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Spicy Tomato Cheddar Soup
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Crouton Crispiness: Ensure the bread cubes are evenly coated with olive oil before baking. This guarantees they achieve the perfect crunch for your Spicy Tomato Cheddar Soup.
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Smooth Blending: For a silky texture, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending in batches. This prevents splattering and results in a beautifully smooth finish.
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Adjust Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with a small amount of red pepper flakes. You can always add more for a spicier kick later on.
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Sauté Time: Don’t rush the sautéing of the onions. Taking time to soften them enhances the flavor base of your soup.
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Storage Solutions: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stove to maintain the creamy texture without the risk of burning.
Make Ahead Options
These Spicy Tomato Cheddar Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the soup base up to 24 hours in advance by following steps 1-4 and then refrigerating it in an airtight container. The flavors will develop beautifully overnight, enhancing the dish’s overall richness. To make it even easier, you can also bake the homemade croutons and store them in a separate container for up to 3 days to maintain their crispiness. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the soup on the stove until piping hot, then stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth for comfort food that’s just as delicious as when you first made it!
Spicy Tomato Cheddar Soup Variations
Feel free to make this delightful soup your own with these custom twists and substitutions!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the cheese with a blend of nutritional yeast and cashew cream for a creamy, dairy-free alternative.
- Veggie Boost: Add chopped spinach or kale toward the end of cooking for a nutritious green addition and beautiful color.
- Herbal Freshness: Mix in fresh basil or parsley just before serving to brighten the flavors and add a lovely aroma.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate some chipotle in adobo sauce for a smoky, fiery kick that will elevate your soup experience.
- Roasted Pepper Twist: Blend in roasted red pepper for a sweet, smoky richness that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
- Texture Deluxe: Stir in a handful of crispy bacon bits for a savory crunch that adds a delightful contrast to the creamy soup.
- Nutty Depth: Swirl in a spoonful of tahini for nuttiness that enhances the flavor profile; it complements the spices wonderfully.
- Extra Heat: For those who love a fiery kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce before serving.
How to Store and Freeze Spicy Tomato Cheddar Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to retain freshness. Reheat gently on the stove while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Freezer: If you wish to freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Serving After Freezing: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and expect to add a splash of broth to reclaim its creamy texture.
Homemade Croutons: For the best crunch, make croutons fresh each time you serve the soup, as they don’t freeze well.
What to Serve with Spicy Tomato Cheddar Soup?
Cozy up to the ultimate meal experience that perfectly complements your soup’s rich, comforting flavors.
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Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Nothing beats the classic pairing of a melty grilled cheese. The crispy, buttery bread perfectly balances the soup’s creamy warmth.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch, making it a delightful counterpoint to the soup’s richness.
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Roasted Vegetable Medley: Roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers are sweet and slightly charred, providing a hearty, nutritious touch alongside the soup.
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Stuffed Bell Peppers: These colorful delights stuffed with grains and veggies offer a filling option that harmonizes with the soup beautifully.
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Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad tossed with herbs lends a refreshing contrast, making each sip of soup feel even more indulgent.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: Elevate your meal with this fizzy beverage that cleanses the palate, allowing the soup’s flavor to shine through.
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Warm Garlic Bread: This is a flavorful addition that complements the soup’s spices, making every dip into your bowl even more enjoyable.
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Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note. The warm spices in this dessert echo the soup’s flavor, making it a comforting conclusion to your dining experience.
Spicy Tomato Cheddar Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of tomatoes should I use for the soup?
I highly recommend using whole peeled tomatoes for a rich texture, but if you prefer, crushed tomatoes can also work well as a substitute. Ensure they are high quality for the best flavor!
How should I store leftover soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to reheat it gently on the stove, stirring often to prevent it from sticking to the pot.
Can I freeze Spicy Tomato Cheddar Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the soup cool completely and pour it into freezer-safe containers. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a little broth if it seems thick.
How can I adjust the heat level in the soup?
If you’re sensitive to spice, start with just a pinch of red pepper flakes and taste as you go. You can always add more seasoning for a kick, ensuring it meets your comfort level.
What if my soup is too thick?
No worries! If your soup ends up thicker than you’d like, simply stir in a bit of low-sodium broth or even some water until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, it’s all about making it perfect for your taste!
Are there any dietary considerations for guests with allergies?
Great question! This soup is naturally vegetarian if you use vegetable broth, but be mindful of any dairy allergies with the cheddar. You can explore using a dairy-free cheese alternative to make it more inclusive for those with lactose intolerance.
Creamy Spicy Tomato Cheddar Soup with Crunchy Croutons
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prep Croutons: Cut the baguette into cubes, toss with olive oil, spread on a baking sheet, and bake at 400°F for 10-12 minutes until crispy.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat, add onion and sauté until softened, then add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Build Soup Base: Stir in tomato paste and flour, then add whole peeled tomatoes. Pour in broth and season with paprika, sugar, and salt.
- Simmer: Let the soup simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes until thick. Blend if desired for a smooth texture.
- Add Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Serve hot, garnished with croutons and red pepper flakes.