Classic Tomato Soup Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of Classic Tomato Soup to bring back childhood memories and create new ones. This recipe celebrates the timeless simplicity and irresistible flavor of juicy tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and a swirl of cream, all coming together to make a cozy soup that’s as perfect for a weeknight dinner as it is for a special lunch. Rich, velvety, and satisfying, Classic Tomato Soup is the kind of dish you’ll find yourself craving throughout the year—especially when paired with crispy grilled cheese or a hunk of fresh bread!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Classic Tomato Soup lies in its straightforward, familiar ingredients—each one playing a vital role in building up the flavor and luxurious texture. With minimal effort, you’ll transform pantry staples and a few fresh touches into a pot of pure comfort.

• Olive oil: Adds a mellow fruitiness and helps release the aromas of the onion and garlic for the perfect savory base.
• Onion: A classic start to any great soup; chopped onion lends sweetness and richness as it cooks down.
• Garlic: Just a couple of cloves create wonderful depth and a gentle kick of flavor.
• Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato essence and gives the soup that lovely, vibrant color.
• Crushed tomatoes: The star of Classic Tomato Soup; canned crushed tomatoes are convenient and reliably delicious.
• Vegetable broth: Enhances the soup’s flavor while keeping everything vegetarian and light.
• Sugar: Just a teaspoon balances the acidity of the tomatoes, making the flavor beautifully rounded.
• Dried basil: Brings a sweet, aromatic note that pairs wonderfully with tomatoes.
• Dried oregano: Adds those subtle, earthy undertones you expect in a classic tomato soup.
• Salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors in the pot.
• Black pepper: Gives a gentle warmth that ties it all together.
• Heavy cream or whole milk (optional): For an ultra-creamy finish, stir in cream or milk just before serving.
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh and colorful finishing touch.

How to Make Classic Tomato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it shimmers, add the chopped onion. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring now and then, until the onion is soft and translucent—this is what builds the backbone of flavor in your Classic Tomato Soup. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds more, enough to make the kitchen smell amazing without letting the garlic burn.

Step 2: Boost Tomato Flavor

Next, spoon in the tomato paste. Stir constantly for about 1 minute so it can caramelize a bit—this gives your soup a sweeter, richer tomato taste and intensifies the color. Don’t rush this part! You’re laying the flavor foundation for the entire pot.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth, then stir everything to combine. This is where the soup starts to look and feel real—cozy, hearty, and so inviting. Sprinkle in the sugar, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the whole thing up to a gentle boil, then turn the heat down and let it simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. This simmering step helps all the flavors mingle and deepen.

Step 4: Purée for the Perfect Texture

Once the soup has simmered, it’s time for that smooth, velvety finish. Use an immersion blender to carefully purée the soup right in the pot, or transfer it in batches to a countertop blender if you want it extra silky. This step is what sets a great Classic Tomato Soup apart—no one wants a chunky bite!

Step 5: Finish with Cream (Optional) and Serve

If you love creamy tomato soup, now’s the time to add your heavy cream or milk. Stir it in gently, then warm the soup for another 2–3 minutes so everything is heated through. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

How to Serve Classic Tomato Soup

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like basil or parsley make a beautiful finishing touch, offering freshness and a pop of green to every bowl. A crack of black pepper or a swirl of cream can also add an extra hint of luxury. For even more flavor, try topping your Classic Tomato Soup with crunchy homemade croutons or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Side Dishes

Classic Tomato Soup and grilled cheese might just be a perfect match—impossibly comforting with every dunk! If you’d like to mix things up, serve your soup with crusty sourdough, garlic bread, or even a side salad for something light and refreshing. For a heartier meal, consider a simple panini or a savory pastry on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn this humble favorite into a show-stopper by serving Classic Tomato Soup in small cups as an appetizer at a dinner party, or as shooters for brunch. For kids, fun-shaped croutons or a dollop of pesto as a swirl will make every spoonful special. If you’re feeling extra fancy, drizzle a little basil oil on top for a gourmet touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Classic Tomato Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 4 days and often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully! Cool it completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Leave a bit of space at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, wait to add cream until after reheating; dairy can sometimes separate when frozen.

Reheating

Gently reheat Classic Tomato Soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s hot all the way through. If you skipped the cream before freezing, this is the perfect moment to stir it in for that freshly-made flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely! If you have ripe, juicy tomatoes on hand, they’re a delicious choice. Simply peel and chop about 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes, then add them in place of the canned variety. The cooking time may need to increase slightly to help them break down into a luscious soup.

Is Classic Tomato Soup still good without the cream?

Yes, Classic Tomato Soup is wonderfully flavorful and warming even without the cream. The simple blend of tomatoes, aromatics, and spices is rich enough to stand on its own. For a vegan or dairy-free alternative, try coconut milk or your favorite non-dairy creamer for added richness.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! This soup is perfect for meal prepping, family dinners, or gatherings. Simply double all the ingredients and use a larger pot. Classic Tomato Soup is always a hit, so don’t be surprised if there are hardly any leftovers.

What if I don’t have an immersion blender?

No worries at all! You can blend the soup in batches using a standard countertop blender. Just let the soup cool slightly first, and be sure to hold down the blender lid with a towel for safety since hot soup can create steam pressure.

How do I make Classic Tomato Soup spicier?

If you’re a fan of a little heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes with the other spices or a splash of hot sauce right before serving. Adjust to taste—just enough to give your soup a gentle kick!

Final Thoughts

There’s really nothing more comforting or satisfying than a homemade pot of Classic Tomato Soup. Whether you stick to the classic, dress it up, or make it your own, it’s bound to bring smiles all around the table. Next time you’re craving something warm and nostalgic, give this recipe a try and see why it never goes out of style!

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