This creamy tomato soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! It’s rich, smooth, and bursting with the fresh taste of tomatoes. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up in no time.
Pair it with some crunchy bread, and you’ve got a cozy meal. I sometimes make extra to freeze for those busy days when I just want something quick and comforting. Yum! 🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing and adds a nice flavor. If you’re out of olive oil, you can use vegetable oil or butter instead. Just be mindful of the flavors—each oil will add its own twist!
Onion: A medium onion gives depth to the soup. If you want a milder taste, you might substitute with shallots or green onions. For a more aromatic option, try leeks!
Garlic: Fresh garlic boosts flavor significantly. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder is an okay substitute—use about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove.
Canned Tomatoes: Whole canned tomatoes create a smoother soup when blended. If you can, go for crushed tomatoes for an easier option, or even fresh tomatoes if they’re in season! Just peel and chop them up first.
Basil: Dried basil works, but fresh basil adds bright flavor. If you can’t find basil, consider substituting with dried thyme or Italian seasoning for a different but tasty twist.
What’s the Best Way to Blend the Soup Smoothly?
Getting that perfectly creamy texture is key! If you have an immersion blender, it’s super easy—just blend right in the pot. If you’re using a regular blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before transferring, and blend in small batches. Always vent the lid to prevent steam buildup!
- Let the soup cool a bit before blending to avoid splatters.
- Blend until it’s silky smooth — this is the magic moment!
- Return the blended soup to the pot before adding cream.
Remember, after adding the cream, heat it gently and avoid boiling to keep it from curdling. Enjoy your creamy tomato soup with a warm slice of crispy bread for the ultimate comfort meal!
Easy Creamy Tomato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) whole peeled tomatoes or crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to reduce acidity)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil or 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Croutons for topping
- A drizzle of cream for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting creamy tomato soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to cook. You’ll enjoy about 35 minutes of total time to serve a deliciously cozy bowl of homemade soup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Base:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion. Sauté it until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. This will give your soup a wonderful aromatic base!
2. Adding Garlic:
Then, add the minced garlic to the pot and let it cook for another minute, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
3. Combining Ingredients:
Next, pour in the canned tomatoes (with their juices) and the vegetable or chicken broth. Add the sugar if you like to balance the acidity, along with the dried basil and oregano if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This will help all the flavors blend beautifully.
4. Blending to Creaminess:
Once the soup has simmered, it’s time to blend! Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the soup until it’s smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches and blend it, being cautious of hot splatters.
5. Adding Cream:
Return the blended soup to the pot if needed, and stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Heat the soup gently on low, but remember not to boil it after adding the cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serving:
Finally, ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley, a drizzle of cream, and sprinkle a few croutons on top for a delightful crunch!
Enjoy this comforting, creamy tomato soup with crunchy bread or grilled cheese for the perfect meal!
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If using fresh tomatoes, you’ll need about 2 pounds. Make sure to peel and chop them before adding to the pot. Cooking time may be a bit longer to allow the fresh tomatoes to break down.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version or use whole milk for a more economical option. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut milk or a plant-based cream to keep it creamy.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the soup ahead, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring it back to life!
What Can I Serve with This Soup?
This soup is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with a sprinkle of cheese or a dollop of pesto for extra flavor!
