This tomato soup recipe is a warm and comforting classic, perfect for chilly days or whenever you’re craving a bowl of rich, velvety goodness. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, this soup is easy to prepare and pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a gooey grilled cheese sandwich.
Ingredients You’ll Need Tomato Soup Recipe
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) whole peeled tomatoes or 6 fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- ½ teaspoon dried basil or 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for creaminess)
How to Make Tomato Soup Recipe
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Cook the Tomatoes:
- Add the whole peeled tomatoes (with their juice) or fresh tomatoes to the pot.
- Break the tomatoes apart with a spoon and let them cook for 5-7 minutes.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and add the sugar, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Blend Until Smooth:
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot, or carefully transfer it to a countertop blender in batches. Blend until smooth.
- Add Cream (Optional):
- Stir in the heavy cream or milk for a creamy texture. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil, and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions Tomato Soup Recipe
This tomato soup pairs wonderfully with:
- A classic grilled cheese sandwich
- Crusty artisan bread or garlic toast
- A fresh green salad for a lighter meal
Why This Recipe Works
- Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples come together to create a rich, flavorful soup.
- Versatile: Customize with herbs, spices, or add-ins like roasted red peppers or croutons.
- Comforting and Delicious: A timeless favorite that’s perfect for all ages.
Pro Tips for Perfect Tomato Soup
- Balance the Acidity: A pinch of sugar helps neutralize the acidity of the tomatoes for a well-rounded flavor.
- Use Quality Tomatoes: Canned San Marzano tomatoes or ripe fresh tomatoes yield the best results.
- Make It Your Own: Add a touch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for extra depth and spice.
Storage Guidelines
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Cool the soup completely and freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.