Cream of Tomato Soup

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of Cream of Tomato Soup, especially on a chilly day. This classic recipe is simple, delicious, and comes together in just 30 minutes. Made with rich tomatoes, aromatic garlic and onions, and a creamy finish, it’s the perfect accompaniment to a grilled cheese sandwich or enjoyed on its own. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic favorite or looking for a homemade soup that’s both easy and satisfying, this creamy tomato soup will hit the spot.

The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity, using basic ingredients that come together to create a smooth, velvety texture and a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and rich. Plus, with a quick prep time and minimal cooking effort, it’s an ideal dish for busy days when you want something warm and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This tomato soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect meal for busy weeknights or a last-minute lunch.

2. Smooth and Creamy Texture

The addition of heavy cream and blending the soup creates a velvety smooth texture that’s rich and comforting.

3. Perfectly Balanced Flavor

The sweetness of the tomatoes, the savory depth from onions and garlic, and the creaminess make this soup perfectly balanced in flavor.

4. Kid-Friendly

Tomato soup is a classic that kids will love, especially when paired with a cheesy grilled sandwich!

5. Homemade Goodness

Skip the canned varieties and enjoy a homemade soup that’s fresher, healthier, and customizable to your taste.

Ingredients

• Butter
• Onion
• Garlic
• Whole tomatoes (canned)
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Salt and pepper

Variations

• Herb-Infused: Add fresh basil, thyme, or oregano to give the soup a fragrant herbaceous twist.
• Spicy Tomato Soup: For a spicy version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño during the sauté step.
• Roasted Tomato Soup: Use roasted tomatoes for a deeper, smokier flavor. Simply roast fresh tomatoes in the oven before adding to the soup.
• Vegan Option: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative for a dairy-free version.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Add the whole tomatoes (with juices) and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

Use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender for this step.

Step 4: Stir in the Cream

Add the heavy cream and stir until fully incorporated, making the soup extra creamy and rich.

Step 5: Season and Simmer

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10 minutes to thicken and develop the flavors.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a swirl of cream if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Fresh Tomatoes: If you prefer, fresh tomatoes can be used instead of canned. You’ll need to peel and chop them before adding to the soup.
• Strain for Smoothness: For an ultra-smooth soup, you can strain the blended mixture to remove any seeds or skin from the tomatoes.
• Adjust the Creaminess: Feel free to adjust the amount of heavy cream to suit your preferred richness—use less for a lighter soup, or more for an ultra-creamy texture.
• Make it Vegetarian: Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth to make this soup vegetarian-friendly.

How to Serve

This Cream of Tomato Soup is perfect on its own with a piece of crusty bread, but it also pairs wonderfully with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting, nostalgic meal. You can also serve it as a starter with a fresh salad or alongside a charcuterie board for a more sophisticated option. Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover tomato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Freezing

This soup freezes well! Allow the soup to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.

Reheating

To reheat, add a bit of broth or water to thin the soup to your desired consistency. Warm it on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, fresh tomatoes work well in this recipe. You’ll need to peel, chop, and cook them down to release their juices before blending.

2. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or any plant-based cream to make the soup dairy-free.

3. How can I make the soup spicier?

Add some chili flakes, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to give your tomato soup a spicy kick.

4. Can I make the soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

5. Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.

6. How can I make the soup thicker?

To thicken the soup, let it simmer longer to reduce, or add a bit more cream. You can also add a small amount of cornstarch or flour.

7. Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

8. Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it before freezing and reheat slowly.

9. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, for a vegetarian version, you can substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.

10. Can I make this soup without an immersion blender?

If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender. Just blend the soup in batches and return it to the pot.

Conclusion

This Cream of Tomato Soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and full of flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a homemade version that’s far superior to anything canned. Perfect for cold days, lunch breaks, or a cozy evening at home, this soup will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Serve it alongside your favorite bread or as a starter to a hearty meal, and enjoy the timeless taste of this comforting classic.

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