Slow Cooker Tomato Soup

Slow cooker tomato soup is a comforting and easy-to-make dish, perfect for cozy days. This recipe combines fresh tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a hint of creaminess to create a rich and flavorful soup. Using the slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time in the kitchen. Serve it with grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread for a delicious, satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation with minimal ingredients
• Rich, comforting, and full of flavor
• Perfect for meal prep or freezing
• Great for both lunch and dinner
• Pairs wonderfully with a classic grilled cheese

Ingredients

• 2 cans (28 ounces each) of crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (14 ounces) of diced tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to reduce acidity)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• Fresh basil and grated Parmesan for garnish (optional)

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

Directions

this recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, chopped onion, garlic, vegetable broth, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Drizzle with olive oil or add butter for extra richness.

Step 2: Slow Cook

1. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are soft and the flavors are well combined.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

1. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender (be careful with the hot liquid).

Step 4: Add Creaminess

1. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half.
2. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan if desired.
3. Serve hot with your favorite bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
• Total Time: 6-8 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Add fresh basil and blend it into the soup for a bright, herby flavor.
• Roasted Tomato Soup: Roast fresh tomatoes, onions, and garlic in the oven before adding to the slow cooker for a deeper flavor.
• Spicy Tomato Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in individual portions 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, use about 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes, roughly chopped. Roma or plum tomatoes work best.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Absolutely! Replace the cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

How can I make the soup thicker?

Let it simmer with the lid off for a while, or add a tablespoon of tomato paste or a bit of cornstarch slurry.

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.

What if my soup is too acidic?

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

Do I need to sauté the onions and garlic first?

For the best flavor, sautéing is recommended, but you can skip this step if you’re short on time.

Can I use broth cubes instead of liquid broth?

Yes, dissolve the cubes in water according to the package instructions.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but double-check any store-bought broths.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes, use vegetable broth and replace the cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut milk.

What can I serve with tomato soup?

Grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or a simple side salad pair perfectly with this soup.

Conclusion

Slow cooker tomato soup is a cozy and delicious recipe that’s incredibly easy to make. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Prepare it ahead of time and enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of soup whenever you like!

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