Yard House Tomato Bisque Recipe

I was lucky to have a huge family garden in our backyard. It was filled with fresh vegetables like San Marzano tomatoes, carrots, onions, and more. On busy days, I wanted to cook something fast and easy without making a special trip to the store. That’s when I thought of making the Yard House Tomato Bisque Recipe.

Luckily, my neighbor, an ex-chef from Yard House, shared his secrets to creating a smooth, velvety tomato bisque. This soup is rich, creamy, and packed with deep tomato flavors. It’s pure comfort in a bowl, especially when the weather starts to cool down.

If you love a good tomato bisque, just follow my simple step-by-step process and enjoy the creamy tomato bisque recipe.

What is in Tomato Basil Bisque

• Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and enhances flavor.
• Onion, chopped (1 large): Provides a natural sweetness.
• Celery, chopped (3 large stalks): Adds a mild, earthy taste.
• Carrots, chopped (2 medium): Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Garlic, minced (4 cloves): Enhances the overall flavor.
• San Marzano Tomatoes (2 cans, 28 ounces each): Sweeter and lower in acidity.
• Chicken Stock (2 cups): Adds depth and umami.
• Water (2 cups): Helps adjust consistency.
• Salt (1 teaspoon, or to taste): Enhances the flavor.
• Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle spice.
• Dried Basil (1/2 teaspoon): Brings in a classic Italian touch.
• Red Pepper Flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For a slight kick.
• Heavy Whipping Cream (1 cup): Creates that signature creamy texture.

Substitutions & Variations

1. Tomatoes: If you don’t have crushed tomatoes, use diced tomatoes or tomato puree.
2. Vegetable Broth: Use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth.
3. Heavy Cream: Use half-and-half or milk for a lighter option.
4. Basil: Use 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil instead of dried basil.
5. Extra Herbs: Add thyme or oregano for more depth.
6. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.

Kitchen Appliances Needed

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven – Ideal for simmering the bisque.
• Immersion Blender (or Regular Blender) – To create that smooth, velvety texture.
• Knife & Cutting Board – For chopping vegetables.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – To get the perfect ingredient balance.

How To Make Yard House Tomato Bisque Recipe

Step 1 | Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add chopped celery and carrots, cooking for another 5-7 minutes.

Step 2 | Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir in dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 3 | Simmer

Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 20 minutes. For a deeper flavor, simmer for up to an hour.

Step 4 | Blend

Remove the pot from heat. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, carefully blend the soup in batches.

Step 5 | Add Cream

Return the pot to low heat. Stir in heavy cream and heat gently without boiling.

Step 6 | Adjust Seasoning

Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed with more salt, pepper, or sugar.

Step 7 | Serve

Serve hot with a swirl of cream, fresh basil, or croutons.

Tips for the Best Tomato Bisque

• Use Good Tomatoes – San Marzano tomatoes are the best because they are sweet and not too sour.
• Let It Simmer – Cook the soup for 20 minutes to blend the flavors.
• Blend Safely – If using a regular blender, blend in small amounts to avoid splashes.
• Top It Off – A little cream, fresh basil, or crunchy croutons make it extra tasty.

What to Serve with Tomato Bisque

1. Grilled Cheese – A warm, cheesy sandwich is a perfect match.
2. Croutons – Add some crunch with homemade or store-bought croutons.
3. Salad – A light salad with tangy dressing balances the creamy soup.
4. Garlic Bread – Great for dipping and soaking up every last drop.
5. Quesadillas – A cheesy quesadilla makes the meal even more filling.

Proper Storage & Reheating Tips

Storage

Allow the soup to cool completely before storing it. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container to maintain freshness. Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

The best way to reheat tomato bisque is on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

Reheating

Reheat the soup in the microwave. Heat it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it is heated through. Avoid boiling the soup, as this can cause the cream to separate.

Yard House Tomato Bisque Recipe FAQs

1. Can I make this bisque ahead of time?

Yes! It tastes even better the next day. Make it up to 3 days in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat gently on the stove. Don’t let it boil.

2. Why use San Marzano tomatoes?

San Marzano tomatoes are sweeter, less acidic, and have fewer seeds than regular canned tomatoes. They make the bisque smoother and more flavorful.

3. Why did my bisque curdle?

Curdling happens when the cream separates due to high heat or acidity. To prevent this, add cream off the heat and don’t boil. If it curdles, blend it again or temper more cream by mixing it with a little hot soup before stirring it back in.

4. How can I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes while sautéing vegetables or mix in cayenne pepper at the end. You can also use fire-roasted tomatoes, harissa paste, or a chopped chipotle pepper in adobo sauce.

5. Can I use fresh tomatoes?

Yes! Use about 3 pounds of ripe tomatoes. Blanch, peel, and chop them before adding to the recipe. Fresh tomatoes have more water, so reduce added liquid by ½ cup.

6. My bisque is too thick. How can I fix it?

Stir in warm chicken stock, water, or more cream, a little at a time, until it reaches the right consistency. Blend it well to ensure smoothness. Remember, bisque thickens as it cools, so it’s okay if it looks slightly thin when hot.

7. How do I make it look fancy?

Blend until smooth and strain if needed. Garnish with cream swirls, chopped herbs, or croutons. A drizzle of olive oil also looks great.

Conclusion

This Yard House Tomato Bisque Recipe is a must-try if you love creamy and flavorful soups. It’s easy to make, full of fresh ingredients, and tastes just as good as the restaurant version.

I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy every spoonful. If you do, let me know how it turned out, and don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest for more delicious recipes!