Creamy Tomato Soup: Easy, Homemade Comfort in a Bowl
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of creamy tomato soup. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a lazy weekend afternoon, this classic dish never fails to satisfy. Our easy homemade recipe uses simple ingredients to create a rich, flavorful, and velvety smooth soup that’s perfect for the whole family. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through making this delicious soup, offering tips, variations, and answers to your burning questions.
Why This Creamy Tomato Soup is a Must-Try
- Classic Comfort: A timeless recipe that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia.
- Easy and Quick: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make this soup a breeze to prepare.
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of tomatoes, cream, and herbs creates a deeply satisfying taste.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with different ingredients and toppings.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for a cozy dinner, a light lunch, or a comforting snack.
Ingredients
- 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil1
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a vegan version)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh basil leaves, croutons, parmesan cheese for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.2 Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Herbs: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth (or chicken broth). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken slightly.
- Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and blend until smooth.
- Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and heat through. Do not boil.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves, croutons, or parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Creamy Tomato Soup
- Use High-Quality Tomatoes: Opt for canned crushed tomatoes with good flavor for the best results.
- Sauté the Aromatics Well: Sautéing the onion and garlic until softened and fragrant is crucial for building flavor.
- Simmer for Flavor: Simmering the soup allows the flavors to deepen and the soup to thicken.3
- Adjust Creaminess: Adjust the amount of cream to your preference.
- Add a Touch of Sweetness: A pinch of sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Nutrition Information (Approximate values per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 200-300 kcal |
| Total Fat | 15-20g |
| Sodium | 500-700mg |
| Fiber | 3-5g |
| Protein | 5-7g |
FAQs
- “How do you make creamy tomato soup from scratch?”
- By sautéing aromatics, adding tomatoes and herbs, simmering with broth, blending, and adding cream.
- “What goes well with creamy tomato soup?”
- Grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, salads, and pasta.
- “How do you thicken creamy tomato soup?”
- By simmering, adding a roux, or using a cornstarch slurry.
- “Can you freeze creamy tomato soup?”
- Yes, in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- “What are the best toppings for creamy tomato soup?”
- Croutons, fresh herbs, parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- “How to make a vegan creamy tomato soup?”
- Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream.
- “How to make roasted tomato soup?”
- Roast fresh tomatoes with garlic and onions before blending them into the soup.
This homemade creamy tomato soup is a comforting and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a family favorite.