Homemade Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Indulge in the comforting warmth of this Homemade Creamy Tomato Soup, perfect for chilly days and quick meals.
This creamy tomato soup is not only easy to make but also bursting with flavors that will warm your heart. Using fresh tomatoes and a hint of cream, it's the perfect dish for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Soup
- Rich and creamy texture that soothes the soul
- Bursting with fresh tomato flavor
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
The Perfect Comfort Food
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of creamy tomato soup to lift your spirits on a cold day. This recipe not only provides comfort but also brings a sense of nostalgia, reminding many of cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. The creamy texture combined with the rich tomato flavor creates a satisfying dish that leaves you wanting more.
This soup is not just a meal; it's an experience. The aroma of sautéed onions and garlic fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Whether you pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich or enjoy it on its own, this creamy tomato soup is sure to become a staple in your home.
Fresh Ingredients Make a Difference
Using fresh tomatoes in this soup elevates the flavor profile significantly. When tomatoes are in season, their natural sweetness and acidity shine through, making for a vibrant and delicious dish. If fresh tomatoes are unavailable, high-quality canned tomatoes can serve as a great alternative, providing convenience without sacrificing taste.
In addition to tomatoes, the use of fresh herbs like basil adds a burst of flavor that complements the creamy base. The balance of ingredients—olive oil, garlic, and broth—creates a savory backdrop, allowing the tomatoes to truly take center stage in this comforting dish.
Versatile and Customizable
This creamy tomato soup recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your preferences. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added during the cooking process. Alternatively, if you prefer a herby flavor, feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or oregano for a unique twist.
Additionally, you can make this soup lighter by substituting the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative. This way, everyone can enjoy a delicious bowl of soup, accommodating varying dietary needs without compromising on flavor.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your Homemade Creamy Tomato Soup:
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cans of whole tomatoes)
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your delicious soup:
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Broth
Add the chopped fresh tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) to the pot, along with the vegetable broth, sugar, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend just half of the soup and leave the rest as is.
Stir in Cream
Return the pot to low heat and stir in the heavy cream. Heat through for about 5 minutes, but do not boil. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your creamy tomato soup!
Enjoy your homemade creamy tomato soup with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich!
Tips for the Best Tomato Soup
To achieve the best flavor in your homemade creamy tomato soup, it's essential to use ripe, juicy tomatoes. Look for tomatoes that are deep red and feel slightly soft to the touch. If you’re using canned tomatoes, opt for San Marzano varieties, renowned for their sweetness and low acidity.
Don’t skimp on seasoning! Properly seasoning your soup with salt and pepper enhances the natural flavors of the tomatoes. Taste as you go, and don't hesitate to adjust the seasonings to your liking for a perfect balance.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your creamy tomato soup with a side of crusty bread or a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal. The contrast of the creamy soup with crispy bread creates a delightful textural combination that is hard to resist.
For a fancy touch, consider drizzling a bit of balsamic glaze or olive oil over your soup before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds an extra layer of flavor that elevates the dish.
Storing and Reheating
Leftover creamy tomato soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. If the soup has thickened, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup in portion-sized containers. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to let it cool completely before freezing to maintain the best quality when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes work perfectly in this recipe. Just choose high-quality whole or diced tomatoes.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a cashew cream for a delicious vegan option.
→ Can I freeze leftover soup?
Yes, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or a fresh salad.
Homemade Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
Indulge in the comforting warmth of this Homemade Creamy Tomato Soup, perfect for chilly days and quick meals.
Created by: Maya Richardson
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cans of whole tomatoes)
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the chopped fresh tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) to the pot, along with the vegetable broth, sugar, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes.
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend just half of the soup and leave the rest as is.
Return the pot to low heat and stir in the heavy cream. Heat through for about 5 minutes, but do not boil. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your creamy tomato soup!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g