Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tomato Soup is a classic comfort food that’s warm, creamy, and bursting with rich tomato flavor. Perfect for chilly days, this easy homemade version is far superior to canned soup and pairs beautifully with a grilled cheese sandwich. It’s a wholesome, satisfying dish that comes together quickly with simple pantry staples.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
olive oiloniongarliccanned whole tomatosugarvegetable or chicken brothheavy cream or milkbasilsaltblack pepper
directions
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Add canned tomatoes (with juices), a pinch of sugar, and broth. Stir well.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes to deepen the flavor.
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth (or carefully blend in batches in a blender).
Stir in heavy cream or milk and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Simmer for another 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
Garnish with fresh basil before serving if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 30 minutesTotal time: 40 minutes
Variations
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Roast fresh tomatoes and garlic for a deeper, smoky flavor.
Use coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Top with croutons or a swirl of pesto for added texture and flavor.
Stir in cooked pasta or rice to make it heartier.
storage/reheating
Store leftover tomato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.It can also be frozen for up to 2 months.Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes?
Yes, roast or simmer peeled fresh tomatoes for a more natural flavor.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your broth and added ingredients are gluten-free.
How do I thicken tomato soup?
Simmer longer to reduce liquid, or add a bit of cream or a flour slurry.
Can I make it vegan?
Use vegetable broth and substitute cream with coconut milk or a plant-based alternative.
Why add sugar?
A touch of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Do I need to strain the soup?
No, but you can strain for a smoother texture if preferred.
Can I add protein?
Yes, add cooked chicken or lentils for a protein boost.
What’s the best garnish?
Fresh basil, croutons, or a drizzle of cream make great garnishes.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it scales easily for larger portions.
What can I serve it with?
Grilled cheese, crusty bread, or a fresh salad pair perfectly.
Conclusion
Tomato Soup is a timeless, cozy dish that’s as simple as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something soothing on a rainy day, this homemade version offers flavor, flexibility, and comfort in every spoonful.
PrintTomato Soup Recipe
Classic creamy tomato soup made from ripe tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a touch of cream—comforting and perfect for any season.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering, Blending
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (or 2 tablespoons fresh, chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5–6 minutes.
- Add garlic and tomato paste; cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, broth, sugar, basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Using an immersion blender (or in batches in a countertop blender), puree soup until smooth.
- Return soup to low heat and stir in cream. Heat through (do not boil).
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- Make it vegan by replacing heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream.
- For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika.
- Roasting fresh tomatoes and garlic before adding enhances depth of flavor.
- Soup thickens as it cools; add extra broth to thin if reheating.
- Pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approx.)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg