As the cool breeze of autumn settles in, there’s nothing quite like the embrace of a warm, hearty soup to brighten up your day. Just the thought of my Butter Onion Tomato Soup with Pasta and Parmesan brings back memories of cozy evenings spent in the kitchen, where the rich aroma of simmering tomatoes and butter tingles through the air, inviting loved ones to gather around the table.
This delightful recipe is a twist on the classic tomato soup, jazzed up with an array of vibrant vegetables and comforting pasta. I’ve discovered that the secret to an unforgettable soup lies in the slow cooking of the onion, transforming it into a luscious base that deepens the flavor profile. With each spoonful, the freshness of vegetables complements the creamy touch of parmesan, creating a bowl of goodness that’s not only nourishing but also a feast for the senses.
Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or simply seeking a warm hug in a bowl, this recipe is your ticket to comfort. Grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking, because this recipe is about to become your new go-to for those nights when fast food just won’t cut it!
Why is Butter Onion Tomato Soup with Pasta and Parmesan special?
Warmth: This soup offers a cozy embrace, perfect for chilly evenings.
Flavor Explosion: A medley of fresh veggies and parmesan elevates traditional tomato soup into a vibrant dish.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, even beginner chefs can create a delightful meal.
Crowd-Pleasing: It’s hearty enough to satisfy everyone—from family dinners to gatherings with friends.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vegetables, it’s a healthy option to replace fast food without sacrificing taste.
For more comfort food options, check out my collection of hearty recipes to keep your kitchen buzzing!
Butter Onion Tomato Soup Ingredients
• Discover the magic that makes this Butter Onion Tomato Soup truly special.
For the Soup Base
- 28 oz tin diced tomatoes – A must-have ingredient for that rich tomato flavor.
- 10 cups vegetable broth – Use homemade broth for a deeper taste, or store-bought for convenience.
- 1 yellow onion, skin removed and halved – Slow-cooked for sweetness and depth in flavor.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter – Adds creaminess and richness to the soup.
- 1 tsp salt – Enhances flavors; adjust to your taste preference.
- 1 tsp pepper – For a subtle kick that balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes – Optional, but adds a lovely warmth.
For the Veggies
- 1 carrot, peeled and sliced – Sweetness and crunch, perfect for texture contrast.
- 1 cup chopped squash (hubbard, acorn, butternut etc.) – This brings a lovely sweetness and creaminess.
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms – Adds umami and a hearty bite.
- 2 cups (1/2 small head) chopped cauliflower – Adds bulk and nutritional benefits without overpowering flavors.
- 2 cups chopped kale – A nutrient powerhouse that enhances the soup’s heartiness.
For the Soup Finish
- 1 cup dry Collezione pasta – Provides a delightful chew that makes this dish filling.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese – A deliciously salty finish that elevates every bite.
How to Make Butter Onion Tomato Soup with Pasta and Parmesan
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Sauté Ingredients: Place a large soup pot or dutch oven on medium-high heat. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, halved onion, butter, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Bring to a low boil, then cover and cook for 60 minutes, until the onion is mushy. Remove and discard the onion with a slotted spoon.
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Add Veggies: Mix in the sliced carrots, chopped squash, mushrooms, and cauliflower. Continue to simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
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Cook Pasta: Stir in the dry Collezione pasta and cook until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. You want it tender but with a little bite.
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Incorporate Kale: Add the chopped kale and simmer until wilted and soft, roughly 5 minutes. At this point, all the veggies and pasta should be nicely softened.
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Finish with Parmesan: Generously season with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the warm soup, enhancing the overall flavor.
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Tip for Leftovers: If you plan for leftovers, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it right before serving to maintain its perfect texture.
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of extra parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Butter Onion Tomato Soup Variations
Feel free to explore creative twists on this nourishing dish to match your tastes and preferences!
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Dairy-Free: Swap Parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast to maintain a cheesy flavor without dairy. It’s a delightful alternative for those looking to keep it vegan.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or zoodles (zucchini noodles) to cater to gluten sensitivities while still enjoying a comforting bowl of soup.
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Spicy Kick: Boost the heat by stirring in a diced jalapeño or increased chili flakes. A little spice can elevate the flavors to new heights!
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme toward the end of cooking for an aromatic lift that adds depth to the soup’s flavor profile.
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Protein Punch: Consider adding shredded chicken or chickpeas for an extra protein boost that makes the dish even heartier and more satisfying.
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Roasted Veggies: For a smoky depth, roast the squash and cauliflower before adding them to the pot. This caramelization brings a rich, layered flavor to every spoonful.
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Coconut Cream: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of coconut cream just before serving for an exotic twist and a hint of creaminess that complements the tomato base beautifully.
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Citrus Zest: A squeeze of lemon or lime juice at the end brightens the soup, giving it a fresh twist that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
With these variations, you can always create a unique spin that keeps your family excited about mealtime!
Expert Tips for Butter Onion Tomato Soup
Slow Cook: Let the onion simmer for a full hour; this releases its natural sweetness for a richer flavor.
Pasta Cooking: Cook pasta separately if you plan to store leftovers; it prevents sogginess and maintains the perfect texture.
Season to Taste: Don’t forget to taste as you go! You may want to add a dash more salt or pepper to match your preferences in Butter Onion Tomato Soup with Pasta and Parmesan.
Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh vegetables for the best flavor. Frozen veggies can be convenient, but they lack the vibrant touch of fresh ones.
Texture Matters: For extra creaminess, consider blending a portion of the soup after cooking, then reintegrating it. This adds a silky mouthfeel.
What to Serve with Butter Onion Tomato Soup with Pasta and Parmesan?
Warm your soul even more by pairing this comforting soup with delightful sides that balance its heartiness and flavor.
- Garlic Bread: The crispy texture and buttery garlic goodness make this a classic match, perfect for dipping into the scrumptious soup.
- Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with tangy vinaigrette adds a bright contrast, complementing the rich flavors of the soup.
- Creamy Polenta: This smooth, comforting side blends beautifully with the soup, making each bite a creamy delight.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized veggies bring out the sweetness and add a pleasing crunch alongside the soup’s warmth.
- Cheesy Quesadillas: The melty cheese and crispy tortilla pair wonderfully, offering a delicious bite when dunked into the tomato soup.
- Crisp White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc enhances the meal, its acidity perfectly offsetting the creaminess of the soup.
- Homemade Biscotti: For dessert, a crunchy biscotti adds a sweet finish, offering a delightful end to a cozy meal.
- Nutty Granola Bars: These make for a perfect on-the-go snack that you can reach for after enjoying your soup, keeping the warmth alive.
By thoughtfully pairing these options, you’re set for a memorable meal that transcends ordinary dining!
How to Store and Freeze Butter Onion Tomato Soup
Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can easily reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick meal.
Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent ice crystal formation.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to restore the soup’s creamy texture.
Pasta Tip: If you’ve added pasta, it’s best to store it separately to avoid mushiness. Add the pasta back to the soup when reheating for optimal texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Butter Onion Tomato Soup with Pasta and Parmesan components are perfect for meal prep, helping you save time during busy weeknights! You can chop the carrots, squash, mushrooms, and cauliflower up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can prepare the soup base (without pasta and kale) in 24 hours, just reheat it gently. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the pasta separately to ensure it stays perfectly al dente, and then stir in the soft kale for a quick finish. This way, your soup maintains the delicious flavor and texture just as if it were freshly made!
Butter Onion Tomato Soup with Pasta and Parmesan Recipe FAQs
What type of tomatoes should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using a high-quality brand of diced tomatoes or even whole peeled tomatoes that you crush yourself. The flavor comes through so beautifully with quality tomatoes!
How should I store leftovers of Butter Onion Tomato Soup?
You can store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re planning to enjoy it later, just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, and you’re good to go!
Can I freeze Butter Onion Tomato Soup?
Very much so! You can freeze this soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just make sure it cools completely before sealing to prevent ice crystals. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What should I do if my soup is too salty?
No worries! If you find your Butter Onion Tomato Soup with Pasta and Parmesan is a bit too salty, you can add a splash of water or extra vegetable broth to dilute it. Alternatively, adding a peeled potato during the simmering process can absorb some of the saltiness. Just remember to remove the potato before serving!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you have allergies, you might want to double-check the vegetable broth for any allergens. And for those watching their dairy intake, try substituting the Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Why is the onion removed after cooking?
The onion is removed after cooking because it transforms during the simmer, losing its chunkiness and becoming incredibly soft. This method allows the soup to absorb all of the sweet, rich flavors without leaving you with a texture you’re not used to. This results in a beautifully smooth soup!
Irresistible Butter Onion Tomato Soup with Pasta and Parmesan
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place a large soup pot or dutch oven on medium-high heat. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, halved onion, butter, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Bring to a low boil, then cover and cook for 60 minutes, until the onion is mushy. Remove and discard the onion with a slotted spoon.
- Mix in the sliced carrots, chopped squash, mushrooms, and cauliflower. Continue to simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in the dry Collezione pasta and cook until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. You want it tender but with a little bite.
- Add the chopped kale and simmer until wilted and soft, roughly 5 minutes. At this point, all the veggies and pasta should be nicely softened.
- Generously season with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the warm soup, enhancing the overall flavor.
- If you plan for leftovers, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it right before serving to maintain its perfect texture.