If you’re looking for a comforting, velvety dish that wraps you in warmth with every spoonful, this Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe is an absolute must-try. Bursting with rich tomato flavor balanced by the smoothness of cream, it’s the perfect bowl to cozy up with on any day. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or want to impress guests with a simple yet elegant starter, this soup hits all the right notes with its luscious texture and vibrant taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe uses just a handful of simple ingredients that come together beautifully to create a dish that tastes far from basic. Each component plays a vital role, from the sweetness of caramelized onions to the richness the cream adds.
- 2 cans crushed tomatoes: The star ingredient, providing a robust and tangy tomato base full of color and flavor.
- 1 cup cream: Adds that signature silky smoothness and mellow richness that turns the soup ultra-creamy.
- 1 onion: Sautéed to soften and sweeten, it brings depth and warmth to each spoonful.
- 2-3 cloves garlic: Offers a fragrant kick that complements the tomatoes perfectly.
- Butter: Used for sautéing, it imparts a luscious buttery flavor enhancing the overall texture.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and garlic and cook them gently until they become soft and fragrant. This step is crucial because it unlocks the natural sweetness and aroma of the onions and garlic, laying the flavorful foundation of the soup.
Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Simmer
Pour in the crushed tomatoes straight from the can and stir to combine with the sautéd onions and garlic. Let the mixture simmer gently, allowing the flavors to meld and the acidity of the tomatoes to mellow out. This simmering time infuses the soup with rich, complex tomato goodness.
Step 3: Blend to Perfection
Once the soup has simmered and the flavors are married, use an immersion blender right in the pot, or transfer to a blender in batches. Blend until the soup is perfectly smooth and velvety, which creates that signature creamy tomato texture that everyone loves.
Step 4: Stir in the Cream
Finally, gently stir in the cream to the blended tomato mixture. This addition brings softness and a luxurious, silky finish, transforming the soup into an indulgent treat that’s both hearty and elegant. Heat through without boiling to keep the cream from curdling.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Adding the right garnish can elevate your bowl of creamy tomato soup from simple to spectacular. A sprinkle of fresh basil or a swirl of extra cream can add visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor. Cracked black pepper or a pinch of smoked paprika also brings a lovely contrast.
Side Dishes
Pair your soup with warm crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich to soak up every last drop. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables make for a balanced and satisfying meal alongside this luscious soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls—this adds both charm and an edible container! You can also drizzle pesto or olive oil on top for color contrast and an herbal note. These ideas give your Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe a beautiful, restaurant-worthy finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store in an airtight container to preserve freshness and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy, gently reheat it on the stove, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy texture.
Freezing
Want to save some for later? Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe freezes well, just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It’s best to freeze in portions so you can thaw only what you need. When frozen, it can keep for up to 3 months without losing any of its delicious qualities.
Reheating
Reheat your soup slowly on low to medium heat. Stir frequently, and if the soup thickens too much, add a splash of cream or broth to bring it back to the perfect consistency. Avoid overheating or boiling once the cream is added, as that can change the texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned crushed tomatoes?
Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes can be used but require peeling and cooking down longer to achieve the same rich flavor. Using canned crushed tomatoes saves time and provides consistent taste year-round, making the Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe quick and foolproof.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream?
Yes, you can substitute coconut cream, cashew cream, or even oat milk for a dairy-free version. These alternatives still provide a creamy texture without compromising the flavor too much.
Can I make this soup spicy?
Definitely. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during simmering adds a gentle heat that complements the tomato base. Just adjust the spice level according to your preference.
How thick should the soup be?
The ideal Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable. If it’s too thick after blending, simply add a bit of vegetable broth or water to reach your preferred consistency.
What’s the best way to blend the soup?
An immersion blender is the easiest tool, as it allows you to blend right in the pot without transferring hot liquid. If using a countertop blender, work in batches and be careful when blending hot liquids to avoid splatters.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about a bowl of creamy tomato soup that comforts the soul and brightens the day. This Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe balances simple ingredients with luscious creaminess in a way that feels both nostalgic and elevated. I encourage you to try making it yourself—you might find it becoming one of your all-time favorite soups to serve and share.
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
Description
A rich and comforting creamy tomato soup made by sautéing onions and garlic, simmering crushed tomatoes, and finishing with a smooth blend of cream for a velvety texture.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
Finishing Touch
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large saucepan or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Crushed Tomatoes and Simmer: Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes, stir to combine with the sautéed onion and garlic. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it cook uncovered for about 15-20 minutes to develop the flavors, stirring occasionally.
- Blend the Soup: Carefully transfer the hot tomato mixture into a blender or use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Return the blended soup back to the pot.
- Add Cream: Pour in the cream and stir well over low heat, warming through without boiling to preserve the cream’s texture. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and optionally garnish with fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of cream. Serve hot with crusty bread or grilled cheese.
Notes
- For a dairy-free option, substitute cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.
- You can add a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes are too acidic.
- To make the soup chunkier, blend only half of the tomatoes and stir in the unblended portion.
- Use fresh tomatoes if available and season with fresh herbs like basil or thyme for added flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
