Creamy Tomato Soup – Comfort in Every Spoonful

Nothing warms the soul quite like a bowl of creamy tomato soup. Silky smooth, packed with rich flavor, and made from fresh tomatoes and aromatic herbs, this homemade version beats any canned variety. It’s cozy, simple, and comes together in just under 30 minutes — the ultimate comfort food for cold days, quick lunches, or lazy weeknights.

Looking for the perfect pairing? Check out our Ultimate Burger Recipe — the crispy grilled cheese’s best friend has some competition now.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tomato Soup

• Fresh ingredients: No artificial flavors or preservatives
• Velvety texture: Thanks to cream or plant-based alternatives
• Quick & easy: Ready in 30 minutes with minimal prep
• Perfect for meal prep: Stays great in the fridge or freezer
• Gluten-free & customizable for all dietary needs

Want to know why tomatoes are such a superfood? Learn more at Cleveland Clinic’s Tomato Nutrition Guide.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 5–6 ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped (or 1 can whole tomatoes, 28oz)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (adds richness)
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for vegan option
• Optional: pinch of sugar to balance acidity

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How to Make Creamy Tomato Soup (Step-by-Step)

1. Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

2. Add Tomatoes and Paste

Add chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir and let simmer for 10 minutes until tomatoes break down and flavors concentrate.

3. Pour in Broth and Simmer

Add broth, salt, pepper, and basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for another 10–15 minutes.

4. Blend Smooth

Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. If using a countertop blender, let it cool slightly before blending in batches for safety.

5. Add Cream and Adjust

Stir in cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free version). Taste and adjust seasoning. If the soup is too tangy, a pinch of sugar can balance the flavors beautifully.

Serving Ideas

• Serve hot with grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread.
• Garnish with fresh basil, croutons, or a swirl of cream.
• Pair with a side salad for a balanced meal.

For more cozy bowl ideas, explore our Healthy Bites Recipe Collection.

Storage & Reheating

This soup stores beautifully. Let it cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw and stir in cream after reheating for best texture.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a chopped chili.
• Cheesy Finish: Stir in shredded parmesan or cheddar.
• Roasted Tomato Flavor: Roast tomatoes with garlic before adding for deeper flavor.
• Low Carb: Skip the sugar and use cream cheese instead of cream.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes?
Absolutely! Use high-quality whole or crushed canned tomatoes if fresh ones are out of season. San Marzano varieties are excellent.

How do I make this vegan?
Swap the cream with full-fat coconut milk or oat cream for a delicious dairy-free version.

What’s the best blender for soups?
We love the Vitamix Explorian for silky results every time.

Final Thoughts

This creamy tomato soup is proof that comfort food can also be nourishing and elegant. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a pot of homemade goodness that warms the heart and satisfies every craving. Whether you’re curled up with a book, feeding a family, or meal prepping for the week, this is a recipe you’ll make again and again.

Want more feel-good classics? Don’t miss our Dinner Recipe Ideas or the ultra-popular Lemon Drizzle Cake.

If you made this recipe, leave a comment or tag us @HomeChefTips — we’d love to feature your delicious bowl!