Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a warm, inviting bowl of comfort, look no further than Creamy Tomato Soup. With its velvety texture and deep, sun-ripened tomato flavor, this soup manages to be comforting, elegant, and irresistibly satisfying all at once. It’s the kind of recipe that instantly brightens a rainy day, dresses up a simple lunch, or becomes the star of a cozy dinner. When you taste it, you’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients come together to create a bowlful of pure joy!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather your pantry staples and a few fridge favorites, because simplicity is what makes this Creamy Tomato Soup shine. Each ingredient brings something unique: richness, brightness, a little tang, or that creamy finish we all love.

• Canned Whole Tomatoes: Use the best quality you can find; they create that signature deep tomato flavor.
• Yellow Onion: Sautéed with butter, it lays a sweet, aromatic foundation for the soup.
• Garlic: One or two cloves wake up the tomatoes and add an irresistible edge.
• Butter: Adds a rich, silky backdrop that makes the whole soup luxurious.
• Olive Oil: Balances the butter and gives a touch of fruity depth.
• Carrot: A small diced carrot boosts natural sweetness, enhancing the tomatoes beautifully.
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: It thins the soup just right and deepens savory notes (vegetable broth works too).
• Heavy Cream: For the luscious, creamy finish that transforms simple tomato soup into something sensational.
• Salt and Pepper: Taste as you go—just a pinch brings everything to life.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Optional, but highly recommended for the aroma and pop of color.

How to Make Creamy Tomato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by warming a splash of olive oil and a generous knob of butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and carrot. Cook gently, stirring now and then, until the onion turns translucent and the carrot softens—about 8 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and let it sizzle for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Simmer

Pour in the canned tomatoes (juice and all), crushing them lightly with a spoon as you go. Add the chicken or vegetable broth and a big pinch of salt and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle bubble, then reduce the heat and let the soup simmer uncovered for 25 minutes. This lets the flavors mingle, sweeten, and deepen—your whole kitchen will smell incredible.

Step 3: Blend Until Smooth

Carefully blend the soup until it’s silky-smooth. You can use an immersion blender right in the pot for easy cleanup, or ladle the soup into a blender in batches (just cover and vent to avoid hot splashes!). Don’t forget to taste—add a little more salt and pepper if it needs it now.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Basil

Return your blended soup to low heat. Stir in the heavy cream and a handful of torn basil leaves, if using. Let it warm gently for another 2 to 3 minutes. Don’t let it boil at this stage; you want that dreamy creaminess to remain intact. Marvel at how the Creamy Tomato Soup comes together into a beautiful, inviting pot!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle your Creamy Tomato Soup into bowls, garnish as you like, and devour! It’s warm, rich, and so satisfying with every spoonful.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Soup

Garnishes

The right garnish makes your soup feel extra special. Try swirls of fresh cream, a sprinkle of chopped basil, or even homemade croutons for crunch. A drizzle of olive oil or a shower of cracked black pepper can turn a simple bowl into a restaurant-worthy starter.

Side Dishes

The classic pairing, of course, is a golden grilled cheese sandwich—a little crispy, a little gooey. For something lighter, serve with a mixed green salad or herbed focaccia. Crusty bread for dipping is simply a must for soaking up every delicious drop of Creamy Tomato Soup.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform your soup night with fun ideas: Serve your Creamy Tomato Soup in shot glasses at a party, pour it into mini bread bowls for a cozy wow-factor, or layer it in a shallow bowl and float a grilled cheese “raft” on top. Let your imagination play!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Stash any cooled Creamy Tomato Soup in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay delightfully fresh for up to four days—perfect for quick lunches or a comforting midnight snack.

Freezing

This soup is fabulous for freezing! Just skip adding the cream before you freeze. Let the soup cool, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw and stir in the cream as you reheat for best results.

Reheating

Gently reheat your soup on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring often. If it thickens in the fridge or freezer, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. For best flavor, avoid bringing it to a full boil once you’ve added the cream.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely! In peak tomato season, fresh ripe tomatoes are divine in Creamy Tomato Soup. Just peel and roughly chop about 2 pounds, then cook them down a little longer to intensify their flavor.

Is there a dairy-free version of Creamy Tomato Soup?

Yes! Swap butter for olive oil and use a plant-based cream or full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream. The result is just as cozy and satisfying.

What if I don’t have an immersion blender?

No problem at all. A standard blender works beautifully—just work in batches and vent the lid slightly to let steam escape. Always be cautious when blending hot liquids!

How do I make my Creamy Tomato Soup thicker?

For extra thickness, simply simmer the soup a bit longer to reduce and concentrate the flavors, or add a spoonful of tomato paste for an even richer consistency.

Can I add other vegetables or herbs?

Definitely! Roasted red peppers, fennel, or thyme are delicious twists. Feel free to experiment and make this Creamy Tomato Soup your own unique creation.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about sharing a bowl of homemade Creamy Tomato Soup with people you love. Whether you’re a seasoned soup enthusiast or a first-timer in the kitchen, this recipe invites you to slow down, savor, and smile. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your new favorite, too!

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