Easy Tomato Soup Recipe

This easy tomato soup recipe is rich, comforting, and perfect for a quick meal. Made with simple ingredients like canned tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a touch of cream, this soup delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Ideal for pairing with a classic grilled cheese or enjoying on its own, this tomato soup is a must-try for any time of the year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and quick to make with pantry staples
• Creamy and full of rich tomato flavor
• Perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner
• Great for meal prep and freezer-friendly
• Customizable with your favorite herbs and spices

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (28 ounces each) of crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for creaminess)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

this recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth

1. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth.
2. Add the dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

1. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
2. Simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together.

Step 4: Blend the Soup

1. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth.
2. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.

Step 5: Add Creaminess (Optional)

1. Stir in the heavy cream for a creamy texture.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Roasted Tomato Soup: Roast fresh tomatoes, onions, and garlic in the oven before adding to the pot for a deeper flavor.
• Spicy Tomato Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Herbed Tomato Soup: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano for extra flavor.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until hot.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, substitute with about 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes, roughly chopped. Roma or plum tomatoes work best.

How can I make this soup dairy-free?

Skip the heavy cream or replace it with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

What if my soup is too acidic?

Add a teaspoon of sugar or a splash of cream to balance the acidity.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, carrots, celery, or red bell peppers blend well into this soup. Sauté them with the onions and garlic for added depth of flavor.

Do I need to peel fresh tomatoes?

For the smoothest soup, peeling is recommended, but not necessary if you blend the soup well.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes, use vegetable broth and omit or replace the cream with a vegan alternative.

What can I serve with this soup?

Grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad pair perfectly with this soup.

How do I make the soup thicker?

Simmer the soup uncovered for a longer time or add a bit of tomato paste or a cornstarch slurry.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply double all the ingredients and make sure your pot is large enough to handle the volume.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free vegetable broth.

Conclusion

This easy tomato soup recipe is a comforting and delicious choice for any meal. With its rich flavor and simple preparation, it’s a perfect go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Pair it with a classic grilled cheese or enjoy it on its own—you can’t go wrong with this satisfying, homemade soup!

Print