If you’re craving a warm, comforting bowl that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl, this Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe is the one you need to try. It brings together the rich tang of ripe tomatoes with the luscious smoothness of cream, creating a velvety texture that delights every spoonful. Whether you’re serving it up for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this soup is effortlessly simple yet incredibly satisfying, radiating both heartiness and elegance in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this soup lies in its simplicity; each ingredient plays a crucial role in balancing flavor, texture, and color. From the sweetness of the sautéed onion to the mellow creaminess that softens the tomato’s natural acidity, these essentials come together beautifully to create a rich and inviting soup.
- 2 cans crushed tomatoes: The foundation of the soup, bringing a vibrant red color and tangy tomato flavor.
- 1 cup cream: Adds that signature smooth, silky texture and softens the acidity perfectly.
- 1 onion: Sautéed until golden, infusing a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic: Gives the soup an aromatic punch without overpowering the tomato.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Used for sautéing, it enriches the base with a gentle, creamy note.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Start by melting butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and garlic, sautéing them until they become soft and golden. This step unlocks their sweetness and creates a flavorful base that enhances the overall taste of the soup.
Step 2: Add Crushed Tomatoes and Simmer
Pour in the crushed tomatoes right into the pan with the onions and garlic. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 15 minutes so the flavors meld together and the tomato flavor intensifies, giving you a rich, satisfying broth.
Step 3: Blend Until Smooth
Once the tomatoes have simmered and the mixture has cooled slightly, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the soup in batches to a blender. Blend it until perfectly smooth and silky, eliminating any chunks for that classic creamy tomato soup texture.
Step 4: Stir in the Cream
Return the blended soup to the stove on low heat and gently stir in the cream. Warm through but avoid boiling to keep the cream from curdling. This is the step where the soup transforms into the velvety, rich experience that makes this Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe so special.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish can elevate this soup to next-level presentation. Try a drizzle of fresh cream in a pretty swirl, a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley, or even a few crunchy croutons for texture contrast. A grating of Parmesan can add that savory touch that pairs well with the soup’s creamy profile.
Side Dishes
For a full meal, pair this soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich; the melted, crispy bread perfectly complements the creamy tomato base. Alternatively, fresh crusty bread or garlic breadsticks work beautifully, inviting you to dip and savor each bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the bowl: serve this soup in small cups for a fun party appetizer or in hollowed-out mini bread loaves for an impressive presentation. You can also swirl in pesto or a dash of smoked paprika to introduce a new layer of flavor and a pop of color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it stays delicious for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for busy days when you still want homemade comfort.
Freezing
This Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe freezes wonderfully in portion-sized containers or freezer-safe bags. Freeze it for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator to preserve its creamy texture and vibrant flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or separation. If the soup thickens during storage, add a splash of cream or water to restore its luscious consistency before serving.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned crushed tomatoes?
Absolutely! If you have ripe, juicy tomatoes on hand, blanch and peel them, then crush or chop finely before cooking. Keep in mind that fresh tomatoes may require a bit more cooking time to break down and concentrate the flavors.
Is it possible to make this soup vegan?
Yes! Simply substitute the butter with olive oil and use a plant-based cream alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. The flavor will still be rich and comforting with these swaps.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions and garlic or stir in a bit of hot sauce or smoked paprika right before serving to introduce a gentle kick without overpowering the creamy tomato base.
What can I add to make the soup more filling?
Consider stirring in cooked rice, small pasta shapes, or beans like cannellini to boost the soup’s heartiness. These additions make the soup feel more like a complete meal while keeping the beloved creamy tomato flavor intact.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Sauté the onion and garlic first, then transfer everything into the slow cooker with the tomatoes. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, and add the cream just before serving for that perfect finish.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a homemade creamy tomato soup—it’s simple, soulful, and endlessly satisfying. This Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe is perfect for warming up chilly days or sharing with loved ones over a casual meal. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to dishes that feels like a little moment of comfort with every spoonful.
Print
Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and velvety creamy tomato soup made by sautéing aromatic onions and garlic, simmering crushed tomatoes, blending to a smooth consistency, and finishing with cream for a luscious texture and balanced flavor.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
Finishing
- 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or deep skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Pour in the crushed tomatoes with their juices. Stir to combine, then reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the tomato mixture in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender and puree until silky, then return to the pot.
- Add Cream: Stir in the cup of heavy cream into the blended soup. Heat through for an additional 5 minutes on low heat, ensuring it does not boil, to achieve a creamy consistency and mellow the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired. Serve the soup hot, optionally garnished with fresh basil or Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- For a thicker soup, simmer longer to reduce the liquid before blending.
- Use ripe, high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor.
- To make the soup vegan, substitute butter with olive oil and cream with coconut cream.
- Serve with crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic pairing.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
