Campbell’s Tomato Soup Stew Recipe

If there’s one comfort food that has been a staple in American households for generations, it’s Campbell’s Tomato Soup. It’s the kind of dish that brings back memories of cozy childhood lunches, those rainy days when you need something warm and satisfying, or just the comfort of familiar, hearty flavors. But what if we could take that timeless soup and elevate it into something even more indulgent? Enter the Campbell’s Tomato Soup Stew.

This isn’t just a can of soup with some extra vegetables thrown in-this recipe takes the classic tomato soup and transforms it into a richer, more filling stew with layers of flavor and texture. Think of it as the next-level comfort food that will not only warm you up but also keep you full and content.

In this guide, we’ll break down every part of the recipe for you, from the ingredients to expert tips, so you can create the perfect bowl of Campbell’s Tomato Soup Stew at home. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

Campbell’s Tomato Soup Stew Recipe

This recipe takes the iconic Campbell’s Tomato Soup and turns it into a satisfying stew, perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a quick meal for guests. It’s simple to make but so flavorful, packed with hearty vegetables, protein, and that iconic tomato base we all know and love. Here’s how you can recreate this cozy dish in your own kitchen.

Ingredients Needed

For this recipe, you’ll need a mix of pantry staples and fresh ingredients that blend perfectly to create a deep, comforting stew. Here’s the full list:

• 1 can of Campbell’s Tomato Soup – The star of the dish. It provides the base flavor and creaminess that makes the stew so special.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing and adding a little richness to the flavor.
• 1 onion, diced – Adds a sweet and savory depth to the stew.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – A touch of garlic for added aromatic flavor.
• 1 medium carrot, diced – Sweetness and texture to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
• 2 celery stalks, diced – Brings crunch and freshness to the stew.
• 1 medium potato, peeled and cubed – Adds heartiness and a smooth texture when cooked.
• 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) – To amp up the tomato flavor and add extra body to the stew.
• 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth) – Helps to thin out the soup and make it stew-like, while still retaining rich flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil – Classic seasoning that pairs beautifully with tomatoes.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Another herb that complements the other ingredients.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
• 1 cup cooked chicken (optional) – If you want to add protein, chicken is a perfect option. It’s optional but highly recommended for added heartiness.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – A little green garnish to freshen up the stew and add a pop of color.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prep Your Ingredients

   • Dice the onion, carrot, celery, and potato into small, uniform pieces. Mince the garlic, and if you’re using chicken, chop it into bite-sized pieces.

2. Sauté Your Aromatics

   • Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, celery, and garlic. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften and the onions turn translucent.

3. Add The Potato

   • Stir in the cubed potato and cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting it soak up the flavors from the veggies and olive oil.

4. Stir In The Liquids

   • Pour in the Campbell’s Tomato Soup, diced tomatoes (with juices), and the vegetable broth. Stir everything together, making sure to scrape any bits off the bottom of the pot to get all those flavors mixed in.

5. Season The Stew

   • Sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir, and then bring the mixture to a simmer.

6. Simmer And Cook

   • Let the stew simmer for about 20-25 minutes. The potatoes should be tender, and the flavors should meld together beautifully. If you’re adding cooked chicken, stir it in at this point and let it heat through.

7. Final Adjustments

   • Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning as needed. If it needs a little more salt or pepper, don’t hesitate to add it.

8. Serve And Garnish

   • Ladle the stew into bowls, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot. You can even add a side of crusty bread to dip into the stew!

Ingredient Insights

Understanding how each ingredient plays a role in this recipe will elevate your cooking. Let’s dive deeper into the function and benefits of each element:

• Campbell’s Tomato Soup: This is the heart of the dish. Its creamy texture and rich tomato flavor create the base for the stew. You could technically use any tomato soup, but Campbell’s has a distinct flavor profile that many people love-mild, comforting, and consistent.
• Potatoes: They absorb the flavors of the broth and tomatoes, adding a creamy texture when softened. They’re also a great way to bulk up the stew, turning it from a light soup into a filling, hearty meal.
• Carrots and Celery: Both of these vegetables bring natural sweetness and texture. Carrots are earthy and subtly sweet, while celery adds a refreshing crunch. Together, they create a well-rounded base for the stew.
• Garlic and Onion: These two ingredients are the foundation of nearly every savory dish. The onion brings savory depth and sweetness, while garlic adds a punchy, aromatic kick that rounds out the flavor.
• Herbs: Basil and oregano are classic Italian herbs that perfectly complement the tomato base. They add complexity and a subtle aromatic touch without overpowering the other ingredients.

Expert Tips

• Make it ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day! Feel free to make it in advance, let it cool, and store it in the fridge for a couple of days. The flavors will deepen, and it will save you time when you’re ready to eat.
• Get creative with protein: While chicken is a great option, you can substitute it with cooked sausage, bacon, or even some beans for a vegetarian version. Each choice will bring a different flavor profile, so feel free to experiment.
• Use homemade broth: If you have homemade chicken or vegetable broth lying around, use it! It will enhance the stew with a richness that store-bought broth just can’t match.
• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker stew, reduce the amount of broth or cook the stew longer to allow it to reduce. For a thinner consistency, add a little more broth.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and opt for extra vegetables or legumes, such as lentils or chickpeas, for protein and texture. You could also use a vegetable-based broth instead of chicken broth to keep it fully vegetarian.
• Creamy Tomato Basil Stew: For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking. Add a handful of fresh basil for that perfect creamy tomato basil twist.
• Spicy Tomato Stew: Want some heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the sautéed vegetables for a spicy kick.
• Cheese Lover’s Stew: Stir in some grated Parmesan or mozzarella towards the end of cooking for a cheesy, comforting version. You could even top the stew with a sprinkle of cheese just before serving.

Final Words

This Campbell’s Tomato Soup Stew is an easy-to-make, warm, and flavorful dish that will hit the spot every time. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or preparing it for guests, this recipe brings comfort and deliciousness with every spoonful. And the best part? It’s super versatile, so you can make it your own with a few tweaks here and there.