If you’ve ever craved the perfect bowl of comfort, this Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe is just what you need to warm your soul and delight your taste buds. It combines the rich sweetness of whole peeled tomatoes with a velvety creaminess that’s both soothing and indulgent, making it a timeless favorite for any season. The balance of garlic, basil, and a touch of tomato paste gives this soup a depth of flavor that feels homemade yet effortlessly elegant. Trust me, once you try this cozy, creamy tomato soup, it’ll become your go-to for chilly nights or anytime you want that familiar hug in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple with ingredients you probably already have on hand. Each element plays a key role in building the rich, creamy texture and vibrant, fresh taste that makes this soup so irresistible.
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter: Adds a luscious base and helps soften the onions for sweetness.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Provides a mild, savory backdrop that enhances the tomato’s natural flavor.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Brings a fragrant warmth and depth to the soup’s overall profile.
- 1 can (28 oz) whole peeled tomatoes: The star ingredient that gives the soup its rich color and natural sweetness.
- 1 cup vegetable broth or chicken broth: Adds savory liquid to balance and intensify the tomato’s boldness.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk: Creates that luscious, creamy texture that makes this soup feel indulgent.
- 1 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor for a deeper, richer taste.
- 1 tsp sugar (optional): Softens the acidity of the tomatoes and rounds out the flavor.
- 1/2 tsp dried basil: Adds a subtle herbal note that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring this dish to life.
- Fresh basil or croutons for garnish (optional): Provides a fresh, crunchy contrast to the creamy soup.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating your olive oil or butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and cook gently until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step is crucial because it unlocks the natural sweetness of the onion, which beautifully balances the tanginess of the tomatoes.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomatoes
Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it sizzle for about a minute until fragrant—be careful not to let it burn. Then, pour in the whole peeled tomatoes along with their juices, followed by the broth, tomato paste, dried basil, and sugar if you decide to use it. Use a spoon to break up the tomatoes into chunks so they cook down evenly and release their rich flavor.
Step 3: Simmer and Blend
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmer allows the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken naturally. Once it’s done, remove it from the heat and blend the soup until silky smooth using an immersion blender or by carefully transferring it in batches to a blender.
Step 4: Stir in the Cream and Season
Return the smooth soup to the saucepan on low heat and gently mix in your heavy cream or coconut milk to build that rich, creamy texture. Season generously with salt and black pepper, adjusting to your taste. Heat it through without boiling to keep that luscious creaminess intact.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a burst of color and a refreshing herbal note that lifts the entire soup. Alternatively, crunchy croutons bring a delightful texture contrast that makes each spoonful more exciting. Both options elevate this simple soup into something truly special and inviting.
Side Dishes
This creamy tomato soup pairs beautifully with a classic grilled cheese sandwich—the melty cheese and crispy bread are absolute soulmates with the soup’s smooth richness. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad or garlic breadsticks make fantastic companions that round out the meal without overwhelming the flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your creamy tomato soup in mini bread bowls or hollowed-out tomatoes for an eye-catching presentation. You can also drizzle a swirl of pesto or a spoonful of balsamic glaze on top for a gourmet touch that impresses at any casual or festive gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover creamy tomato soup keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a perfect make-ahead option for busy weeknights or quick lunches. Just be sure to give it a good stir before reheating, as the cream may settle slightly.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup for up to 2 months in freezer-safe containers. However, if you use heavy cream, the texture might change a bit upon thawing. For best results, freeze the soup before adding the cream and stir the cream in freshly when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to keep the soup silky and prevent curdling. Stir frequently and add a splash of broth or cream if it feels too thick. Microwave reheating works too—just cover and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I make this Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap out the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk, which adds richness without dairy. The soup will still be creamy and flavorful, making it suitable for those avoiding dairy products.
What can I add to make the soup spicier?
If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you add the garlic or right before serving. It brings a subtle warmth that pairs wonderfully with the tomatoes without overpowering the soup.
Is it possible to use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use about 2 pounds of fresh, ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped. Just keep in mind fresh tomatoes may require a longer simmer to develop the same concentrated flavor as canned tomatoes offer.
Can I make this soup in advance for a party?
For sure! This creamy tomato soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Prepare it a day ahead, refrigerate, and reheat gently when ready to serve. Garnish just before serving to keep everything fresh and bright.
What bread pairs best with this soup?
A buttery grilled cheese or crusty bread like sourdough or baguette slices works beautifully. The crunch and richness of the bread complement the soup’s creamy texture and tasty tomato base perfectly.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe enough if you’re searching for a cozy, flavorful dish that feels both comforting and a little special. It’s simple, forgiving, and full of heartwarming taste that will quickly become a favorite in your cooking repertoire. Next time you want a bowl of something smooth, rich, and utterly satisfying, this recipe has got your back. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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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 is a comforting and flavorful classic made with ripe whole peeled tomatoes, aromatic onions and garlic, and enriched with cream or coconut milk for a luscious texture. Perfectly seasoned with tomato paste and basil, it’s an easy stovetop recipe that is both vegetarian and gluten-free. Serve it hot garnished with fresh basil or crunchy croutons for a satisfying meal or starter.
Ingredients
Sauté Base
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Soup
- 1 can (28 oz) whole peeled tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp sugar (optional)
- salt and black pepper to taste
Finishing Touch
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
- fresh basil or croutons for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the whole peeled tomatoes with their juice, vegetable or chicken broth, tomato paste, dried basil, and sugar if using. Use a spoon to break up the tomatoes into smaller pieces and stir to combine.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer gently for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to meld the flavors.
- Blend the Soup: Remove the saucepan from heat. Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer the mixture in batches to a blender. Return the blended soup to low heat.
- Finish with Cream and Seasoning: Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk to create a creamy texture. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste, reheating gently to warm through without boiling.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves or crispy croutons if desired. Enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
- This soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic combination.
