Homemade Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Experience the delightful flavors of summer tomatoes in this rich and creamy tomato soup, perfect for a cozy meal.
This homemade creamy tomato soup recipe is a warm hug in a bowl. Made with fresh tomatoes and a splash of cream, it brings comfort and joy to any meal.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and velvety texture that warms the soul
- Bursting with fresh tomato flavor and herbs
- Easy to make and perfect for any season
The Perfect Comfort Food
There's something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of tomato soup, especially on a chilly day. This creamy tomato soup not only nourishes the body but also soothes the soul. Its rich texture and vibrant flavors make it an ideal dish to enjoy alone or paired with a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal.
Whether you’re enjoying it as a starter or a main course, this creamy tomato soup is versatile enough to be served at any occasion. It's perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even as a special treat for yourself. The delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen will surely make everyone eager to dig in.
Fresh Ingredients Matter
Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is key to achieving the best flavor in this homemade tomato soup. Opt for ripe, in-season tomatoes when possible, as they provide a natural sweetness and vibrant taste that canned tomatoes can’t quite replicate. If you can't find fresh tomatoes, high-quality canned crushed tomatoes are a convenient alternative that still delivers great flavor.
In addition to tomatoes, fresh herbs like basil add an aromatic touch that elevates the dish. Dried herbs work well too, but nothing beats the freshness of garden-grown basil. When combined with the cream, these ingredients create a luscious soup that speaks of summer, no matter the season.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the best aspects of this creamy tomato soup recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to customize it to your taste preferences by adding different herbs or spices. For a kick, consider incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
Additionally, you can enhance the soup's nutrition by adding vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or spinach. Simply sauté them along with the onions and garlic to incorporate extra vitamins and flavor. This method not only boosts the nutritional profile of your soup but also adds depth to the overall taste.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Soup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Gather all your ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking process.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add Garlic and Tomatoes
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute. Then add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Simmer the Soup
Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer it to a blender in batches.
Add Cream and Serve
Stir in the heavy cream and heat through. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Enjoy your homemade creamy tomato soup with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers, this creamy tomato soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to four days. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. It can be frozen for up to three months. To prevent freezer burn, make sure to use freezer-safe containers and leave a little space at the top for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Serving Suggestions
This creamy tomato soup is delightful on its own, but it can also be enhanced with various toppings to suit your taste. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory element, while croutons provide a satisfying crunch. For a fresh twist, consider a dollop of pesto or a drizzle of balsamic reduction on top.
Pairing the soup with a side of crusty bread or a crisp salad can turn it into a more substantial meal. A light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup perfectly, making for a well-rounded dining experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use about 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes. Just blanch, peel, and chop them before adding.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a vegan cream alternative.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
It's great with grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or a fresh salad.
Homemade Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
Experience the delightful flavors of summer tomatoes in this rich and creamy tomato soup, perfect for a cozy meal.
Created by: Holly James
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Soup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 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 about a minute. Then add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer it to a blender in batches.
Stir in the heavy cream and heat through. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g