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Cracker Barrel Green Tomato Soup

Helen T. Patterson
This Cracker Barrel Green Tomato Soup is a creamy, tangy, and comforting dish inspired by the beloved Southern restaurant.
Made with fresh green tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a touch of cream, it’s a perfect way to use up unripe tomatoes and enjoy a homestyle meal.
Serve it with cornbread, biscuits, or a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate cozy experience.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Course, Soup
Cuisine American, Southern
Servings 6 servings
Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

  • (1) Large pot or Dutch oven
  • 1 Immersion Blender or Regular Blender
  • 1 cutting board
  • (1) Chef’s knife
  • (1) Wooden spoon
  • (1) Ladle

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp Butter or Olive Oil
  • 1 medium Onion diced
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • 4-5 large Green Tomatoes chopped
  • 4 cups Vegetable or Chicken Broth
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream or Whole Milk

Seasonings & Extras:

  • 1 tsp Dried Thyme
  • 1 tsp Dried Basil or 1 tbsp fresh
  • ½ tsp Smoked Paprika optional
  • Salt & Black Pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

  • Crumbled Bacon
  • Shredded Cheddar or Parmesan
  • Croutons

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  • Wash and chop the green tomatoes into small pieces.
  • Dice the onion and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  • Heat butter or olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  • Add onions and cook until soft (3-4 minutes).
  • Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

  • Add chopped green tomatoes to the pot and stir well.
  • Pour in the broth and add the thyme, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes until the tomatoes soften.

Step 4: Blend Until Smooth

  • Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until creamy.
  • If using a regular blender, carefully blend in batches and return to the pot.

Step 5: Add Cream & Final Touches

  • Stir in heavy cream or milk and heat for 5 minutes on low (do not boil).
  • Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

  • Ladle into bowls and top with bacon, cheese, or croutons.
  • Serve warm with cornbread, biscuits, or grilled cheese.

Notes

  • For a dairy-free version: Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream.
  • To make it heartier: Add shredded chicken or cooked sausage.
  • For a smoother soup: Strain the blended soup through a fine sieve.
  • Too tangy? Add a pinch of sugar or honey to balance acidity.
  • Freezing Tip: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Keyword Cracker Barrel Green Tomato Soup