If you have ever craved the perfect bowl of comfort, this Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe is exactly what you need to warm your soul. It brings together simple pantry staples with rich, luscious cream and vibrant tomatoes to create a soup that tastes like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly day or seeking an easy yet elegant homemade meal, this soup’s velvety texture and fresh flavor profile make it an absolute favorite. Plus, it is incredibly adaptable, so there’s a delicious way for everyone to enjoy it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might look simple, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the depth, creaminess, and vibrant color of this soup. From the sweetness of the tomatoes to the silky texture provided by the cream, every component is essential for that signature flavor.
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter: Provides a luscious base and enhances the overall richness of the soup.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and savory depth when sautéed.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Delivers a punch of aroma and gentle spice that wakes up the palate.
- 1 can (28 oz) whole peeled tomatoes: The heart of the soup, bringing natural acidity and vibrant color.
- 1 cup vegetable broth or chicken broth: Balances the soup’s thickness and adds a layer of savory flavor.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk: Creates that irresistible creamy texture and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- 1 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and adds umami depth.
- 1 tsp sugar (optional): Cuts through acidity and brings a hint of natural sweetness if your tomatoes aren’t quite ripe enough.
- 1/2 tsp dried basil: Adds a fragrant herbal note that complements the tomatoes perfectly.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every element of the soup.
- Fresh basil or croutons for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, crunchy, or aromatic finish that makes each spoonful extra special.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by warming your olive oil or butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook it gently until soft and translucent, about five minutes. This step is key because it builds a savory foundation that elevates the soup from simple to spectacular. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just one minute. Be careful not to brown the garlic too much, or it will turn bitter — you want that sweet, fragrant hit here.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Seasonings
Next, pour in the entire can of whole peeled tomatoes along with their juice. Add your broth of choice, tomato paste, dried basil, and sugar if you’re using it. Use a wooden spoon to break up the tomatoes as the mixture comes to a simmer. This simmering stage melds the flavors together, softening the acidity of the tomatoes while letting the herbs infuse. Cover the pot and allow it to cook gently for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep everything harmonized.
Step 3: Blend Until Smooth and Creamy
When your soup has simmered and all the flavors are beautifully married, remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender right in the saucepan, blend the soup until it’s perfectly smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender and puree it there. Then, return the soup to low heat. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk, gently warming the soup through while seasoning it with salt and black pepper to taste. The cream really transforms the soup, turning it silky and indulgent.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your creamy tomato soup can take it from everyday to utterly delightful. Fresh basil leaves add a burst of herbal brightness and a pop of color, while crunchy croutons provide a satisfying contrast to the soft texture of the soup. Feel free to sprinkle a little cracked black pepper or drizzle a touch of good olive oil for an elegant final touch.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs famously well with grilled cheese sandwiches, especially when the bread is crispy and the cheese melts perfectly gooey inside. For a lighter option, try pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil. Garlic bread or a warm baguette are also classic companions, perfect for dipping into the creamy tomato goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls to impress guests with edible containers. You can also serve it layered with a swirl of cream or a drizzle of pesto for a colorful twist. If you’re hosting, try pairing small tasting spoons of the soup alongside bite-sized grilled cheese sandwiches for a playful appetizer layout.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover creamy tomato soup stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the day after.
Freezing
This soup freezes well if you want to keep it longer. Pour it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your soup gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cream from separating or the soup from scorching on the bottom. If the soup has thickened too much after refrigeration or freezing, add a small splash of broth or water to loosen it up while warming.
FAQs
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a delicious dairy-free version that still offers rich creaminess and a subtle coconut aroma.
Is it necessary to use tomato paste?
While not mandatory, tomato paste dramatically enhances the depth of tomato flavor and adds a lovely umami quality that enriches the entire soup.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
You can, but for best results, use ripe, flavorful tomatoes and blanch them to remove the skins first. Canned tomatoes provide consistent flavor and convenience that make the recipe simple and reliable.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the aromatics or serve with a drizzle of spicy chili oil for a subtle but satisfying kick that pairs beautifully with the creamy tomato base.
Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Yes! This soup is perfect for making ahead and actually tastes better the next day once the flavors meld. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly heartwarming about making and sharing this Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough to impress family or guests with its rich flavor and comforting texture. So go ahead and try it out—your kitchen will soon be filled with the inviting aroma of this classic homemade soup, and your taste buds will thank you.
Print
Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
This creamy tomato soup recipe offers a comforting and flavorful dish made with fresh ingredients like whole peeled tomatoes, garlic, and onion, simmered to perfection and blended into a silky smooth texture. It can be made with either heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free option, making it versatile and suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) whole peeled tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp sugar (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish
- Fresh basil (optional)
- Croutons (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute to release its aroma.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the whole peeled tomatoes along with their juice, the vegetable or chicken broth, tomato paste, dried basil, and sugar if using. Break up the tomatoes with a spoon to help them cook evenly.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the saucepan, and let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure flavors meld together.
- Blend the Soup: Remove the saucepan from heat. Blend the soup using an immersion blender until smooth, or carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches to puree until silky.
- Finish with Cream and Seasoning: Return the blended soup to low heat. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk, then season with salt and black pepper to taste. Warm the soup gently without boiling, allowing the flavors to fully integrate.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves or crunchy croutons if desired. Serve immediately for a cozy, delicious experience.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicy kick.
- This soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches for a hearty meal.
