Looking for a comforting, hearty dish that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor? This Tuscan tomato and bread soup delivers all that and more.
With just one pot and simple pantry ingredients, you can create a warm, satisfying meal in under an hour.
Whether you’re feeding a family or enjoying a cozy night in, this one pot recipe offers simplicity and richness in every spoonful.
A Rustic Italian Classic Made Simple
This dish, also known as “pappa al pomodoro,” hails from Tuscany and embodies the charm of rustic Italian cuisine. The beauty of this recipe lies in its ability to turn humble ingredients into something extraordinary.
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A mix of day-old bread, olive oil, garlic, and crushed tomatoes come together with fragrant basil and Parmesan for a thick, savory soup. The traditional preparation may be time-consuming, but this streamlined version ensures you achieve the same deep flavors with minimal effort.
Why Bread Makes This Soup Unique
Bread is the heart of this recipe, transforming the soup into a velvety, satisfying dish. Instead of being a side, the bread takes center stage here, breaking down into the broth to create a creamy texture.
Using sandwich bread ensures consistency, making it easier to achieve the perfect thickness without worrying about overpowering flavors or toughness. This clever substitution modernizes a centuries-old dish, making it accessible for any home cook.
Tips for Perfecting the Flavors
- Use high-quality olive oil for richness and authenticity.
- Slice garlic thinly to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Incorporate fresh basil sprigs during cooking, then garnish with chopped basil for a vibrant finish.
- Let the bread fully soften in the broth before whisking to achieve the ideal texture.
- Finish each serving with a drizzle of olive oil and grated Parmesan for a luxurious touch.
Quick, Easy, & Ideal for Busy Nights
This one pot recipe is perfect for anyone who loves cooking without the mess. With a single saucepan, you can sauté, simmer, and serve—minimizing cleanup and maximizing convenience.
The total cooking time is just 40 minutes, making it an excellent choice for weeknights or last-minute meal prep. Pair it with a crisp green salad or crusty bread for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Customizing for Dietary Needs
This soup can be easily adapted to suit a variety of dietary preferences:
- Vegetarian: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to keep the dish plant-based.
- Vegan: Omit the Parmesan and replace it with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread to create the same rich texture without sacrificing flavor.
- Low-Sodium: Choose low-sodium broth and adjust the salt to your liking.
With its flexibility, this dish becomes a go-to for anyone seeking comfort food tailored to their needs.
Easy Tuscan Tomato & Bread Soup One Pot Recipe
Equipment
- Large saucepan
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil plus extra for serving
- 3 garlic cloves sliced thin
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
- 4 ounces hearty white sandwich bread cut into 1/2-inch pieces (3 cups)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 sprig fresh basil plus 2 tablespoons chopped, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon table salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until garlic is lightly browned, about 4 minutes.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, bread, chicken broth, basil sprig, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the bread is softened and the soup thickens slightly, about 15 minutes.
- Remove and discard the basil sprig. Whisk the soup until the bread breaks down completely, and the soup reaches a thick, smooth consistency, about 1 minute.
- Garnish each portion with grated Parmesan, chopped basil, and a drizzle of extra olive oil. Serve hot.
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.