BJs Tomato Bisque Recipe

There’s nothing quite like starting off a meal with a comforting bowl of BJ’s Tomato Bisque.

You’ll appreciate how easy this soup is to make, using simple ingredients like canned tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream.

I recommend heating the cream in a double boiler before mixing it with the tomato mixture to keep the bisque smooth and creamy.

In the first bite, you’ll notice such a nice balance of flavors, with a combo of tangy tomatoes with a hint of sweetness.

How to Make BJs Tomato Bisque Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp Butter
• 1 Onion (chopped)
• 2 stalks Celery (chopped)
• 2 Carrots (chopped)
• 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 1 can Tomatoes (32 oz.)
• 2 cups Chicken Broth
• 1 cup Heavy Cream
• 1 tsp Sugar
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
• 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper
• 2 tsp Basil (chopped)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots.

Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

Step 2:

Stir in the minced garlic and flour.

Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a roux.

Step 3:

Add the tomatoes, chicken broth, sugar, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.

Step 4:

Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes.

Use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender and puree until smooth.

Step 5:

Return the bisque to the pot and stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil.

Heat until just warmed through.

Step 6:

Serve hot, garnished with more basil if desired.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choose the Right Tomatoes

Using good quality canned tomatoes can really make a difference.

If you have access to fresh, ripe tomatoes, those can work wonderfully, too!

Adjust the Spices

Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper to your taste.

If you prefer it milder, just reduce the amount or leave it out.

Creaminess Control

For a richer bisque, try adding an extra splash of heavy cream.

You can also substitute half-and-half if you want a lighter version.

Fresh Herb Options

Fresh basil adds a beautiful aroma and flavor.

If basil isn’t available, you can use thyme or oregano for a different twist.

Blend in Batches

If using a blender, it’s safer to puree the soup in batches.

Always leave an opening for steam to escape to prevent accidents!

What to Serve with Bj’s Tomato Bisque

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

A classic option to pair with your tomato bisque is the grilled cheese sandwich.

The buttery, crispy bread paired with melty cheese creates a comforting combination.

Toss in a slice of tomato or some avocado for a unique twist!

Crusty Bread

A simple slice of crusty bread works wonders with tomato bisque.

Dip the bread into the soup to enjoy every last drop.

Opt for a baguette or sourdough for added texture and taste.

Crunchy Bacon Bits

For something a little unexpected, try adding crunchy bacon bits on the side.

The salty and smoky flavor of bacon complements the rich soup beautifully.

This can add a bit of excitement to each spoonful.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Consider serving roasted Brussels sprouts, which offer a tasty and nutritious contrast.

The caramelized edges of the sprouts add a satisfying bite to your meal.

They play off the soup’s rich texture wonderfully well.

Herbed Couscous

For something different yet flavorful, pair the bisque with herbed couscous.

The light and fluffy grains are perfect for soaking up some of the soup.

Incorporate herbs like parsley or mint for an aromatic touch.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas or experiment with your own favorites!

Variations and Substitutions

Swap to Fresh Ingredients

If you’re short on time or want a fresher taste, consider using fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes.

You might need to adjust the cooking time a bit for these to fully soften.

Creaminess Alternatives

For those looking to make the bisque lighter, try substituting heavy cream with a plant-based cream or half-and-half.

You won’t lose out on that luxurious texture, trust me!

Enhancing the Flavor

Add a bit of smoked paprika or chili flakes to give your bisque an extra kick.

It’s a simple way to transform the dish into something a bit more vibrant.

Thickener Options

If you’re looking to thicken your bisque without altering the flavor, cornstarch mixed with water works well.

Remember to add it slowly to avoid any clumping.

Vegan Possibility

You can easily make this soup vegan by replacing the chicken stock with vegetable stock and opting for coconut cream in place of dairy.

This variation is just as rich and satisfying!

How to Store Leftover BJ’s Tomato Bisque Recipe

Refrigeration

Storing your leftover tomato bisque in the refrigerator is the quickest and easiest way to keep it fresh.

You can place the soup in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to four days.

Make sure to let the bisque cool completely before transferring it to the container to avoid any condensation.

Freezing

If you want to save your bisque for a longer period, freezing is a great option.

Pour the cooled soup into a freezer-safe container, leaving some room at the top for expansion.

Frozen tomato bisque can be stored for up to three months while maintaining its excellent flavor.

Cream Considerations

If your bisque recipe contains cream, consider freezing it separately or added after thawing.

This ensures your soup remains smooth and creamy even after it’s been frozen.

When using this method, your bisque will taste just as good as if it were freshly made!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Too Much Sugar

Adding sweeteners may seem tempting, but don’t overdo it.

A little sugar helps balance the acidity of tomatoes, but too much can overwhelm the dish.

Taste as you go, adding small amounts until it achieves the balance you prefer.

Overcooking the Tomatoes

Cooking tomatoes for too long can lead to a bitter taste, which is never desirable.

Aim to cook them until they’re just softened, leaving some of their fresh flavors intact.

Keeping an eye on the cooking time ensures your bisque stays vibrant and delicious.

Skipping the Pesto

Leaving out pesto can make the bisque lack depth and complexity.

This ingredient adds a rich dose of flavor that complements the tomatoes beautifully.

Try to include it for a deeper and more satisfying taste experience.