There’s something timeless and soul-warming about a bowl of tomato soup. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a light lunch, this comforting dish never fails to satisfy. Originating from European cuisine and adored across the world, tomato soup is a pantry-friendly recipe that continues to trend for its simplicity, versatility, and rich flavor. This recipe offers a velvety texture, deep tomato flavor, and a beautiful balance of sweetness and acidity—all made with fresh ingredients and minimal fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Tomato Soup Recipe
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor – Made with everyday kitchen staples like tomatoes, onions, and garlic.
- Quick & Easy – From stove to bowl in under 30 minutes.
- Naturally Vegetarian – And easy to make vegan or dairy-free.
- Perfectly Creamy – Without needing heavy cream.
- Freezer-Friendly – Make a big batch and save some for later.
Ingredients Needed for Perfect Tomato Soup
Here are the key ingredients that give this tomato soup its signature flavor and smooth texture:
- Fresh Tomatoes – The heart of the dish, bringing a natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Onion – Adds a savory base and deepens the flavor.
- Garlic – Offers aromatic warmth and enhances the overall taste.
- Vegetable Broth – Provides a smooth, savory foundation.
- Olive Oil – Used for sautéing and drizzling for richness.
- Basil Leaves – Fresh and fragrant, giving a classic tomato-basil flavor.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for balancing acidity and elevating flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Tomato Soup
- Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. - Add Tomatoes
Toss in chopped fresh tomatoes (or canned if out of season). Cook for 8–10 minutes, until softened and juicy. - Simmer with Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 10–15 minutes to develop flavor. - Blend Until Smooth
Use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer to a blender. Blend until the soup is completely smooth and creamy. - Season & Finish
Stir in fresh basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with a swirl of olive oil, fresh basil, and cracked black pepper.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Roast the tomatoes for deeper flavor—simply halve and bake at 400°F for 30 minutes before blending.
- Add cream or coconut milk for extra richness.
- Make it spicy with a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne.
- Serve with grilled cheese for the ultimate comfort combo.
- Use canned San Marzano tomatoes for year-round consistency.
How to Store & Reheat
- To Store: Let the soup cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- To Freeze: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- To Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
More Soup Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this creamy tomato soup, you’ll love exploring more comforting bowls of flavor! Try the rich and aromatic French Garlic Soup, spice things up with a bold and hearty Thai Chicken Curry Soup, or indulge in the ultimate comfort with this creamy and satisfying Loaded Baked Potato Soup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes! Use high-quality whole peeled or crushed canned tomatoes. San Marzano tomatoes offer the best flavor.
Is this tomato soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan. Just ensure your broth is vegetable-based.
Can I make tomato soup without a blender?
Absolutely. Use a potato masher for a rustic texture or strain the soup through a sieve for a smoother finish.
What can I serve with tomato soup?
Grilled cheese, crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh salad make perfect companions.
This creamy, comforting tomato soup is proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Whether you’re warming up on a cold day or craving a light, flavorful meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it today, leave a comment with your thoughts, and don’t forget to share it with fellow soup lovers!
Tomato Soup Recipe: Creamy, Easy & Full of Flavor
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 6 cups fresh tomatoes chopped (or canned San Marzano)
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- Optional: drizzle of cream or olive oil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook for 10 minutes, until soft and juicy.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
- Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes to deepen the flavor.
- Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender) and blend until smooth.
- Stir in fresh basil, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 2–3 more minutes, then serve hot.
- Garnish with basil leaves, cracked pepper, or a swirl of cream.