Tomato soup is a timeless classic, offering comfort and warmth with every spoonful. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich, this simple yet flavorful soup is a favorite for many. This recipe captures the essence of homemade tomato soup, combining fresh and canned tomatoes with aromatic vegetables and herbs to create a rich, velvety, and deeply satisfying dish. Perfect for any time of the year, especially on chilly days, this tomato soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Read on to discover how to make the best tomato soup!

What is Tomato Soup?

Tomato soup is a smooth, rich soup made primarily from tomatoes, often cooked with a base of onions, garlic, and broth, then pureed until creamy. This soup can be served hot or cold, and it’s incredibly versatile, easily adapted with different herbs, spices, and even cream for added richness. The result is a comforting, flavorful dish that can be enjoyed as a starter, a light meal, or paired with a classic grilled cheese for a satisfying lunch.

Ingredients List for Tomato Soup

To make the best tomato soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter, for a richer flavor)
1 large onion, diced (adds sweetness and depth)
3 cloves garlic, minced (for aromatic flavor)
2 (28 oz) cans whole tomatoes (San Marzano tomatoes are ideal for their sweetness and flavor)
4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for added richness)
1 tablespoon tomato paste (for concentrated tomato flavor)
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
½ teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped)
½ teaspoon dried oregano (for a hint of earthiness)
Salt and pepper to taste (for seasoning)
¼ cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional, for creaminess)
Optional garnish: Fresh basil leaves, croutons, or a drizzle of olive oil

Substitutions and Variations

This tomato soup recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to customize it to your tastes and dietary needs:

Tomatoes: For a fresher flavor, you can use 3-4 pounds of fresh tomatoes (such as Roma or vine-ripened) instead of canned. Roast them first for added depth of flavor.
Broth: Use chicken broth for a richer soup or stick with vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian or vegan. For a creamier texture, you can replace some of the broth with milk or cream.
Herbs: Swap dried basil and oregano for fresh herbs if you have them on hand. Fresh thyme or rosemary would also work well.
Creaminess: For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or a splash of almond milk instead of cream. You can also leave out the cream entirely for a more traditional, tomato-forward flavor.
Spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a dash of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to create your homemade tomato soup:

1. Sauté the Aromatics:

Heat the oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Cook the onions: Add the diced onions and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are soft and translucent.
Add the garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic burn.

2. Add the Tomatoes and Broth:

Add the tomatoes: Pour in the canned tomatoes, including their juices. Break them up with a wooden spoon as they cook.
Incorporate the broth: Add the vegetable broth and tomato paste, stirring to combine.
Season and simmer: Add the dried basil, oregano, sugar (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well, then bring the soup to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

3. Blend the Soup:

Puree the soup: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender or food processor. Be sure to blend in small batches and hold the lid down with a kitchen towel to avoid spills.
Add cream: If you’re using cream, stir it in after blending the soup to add richness and a velvety texture.

4. Adjust Seasoning and Serve:

Taste and adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or sugar if needed.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil, croutons, or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

How to Make Tomato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a more detailed guide to ensure your tomato soup turns out perfectly:

Use Quality Tomatoes: If using canned tomatoes, opt for San Marzano tomatoes if possible. They have a natural sweetness and lower acidity, which results in a richer, more balanced soup.
Blending the Soup: For a perfectly smooth and creamy texture, an immersion blender is ideal. However, if you use a regular blender, be sure to work in batches and blend carefully to avoid splattering hot soup.
Balancing Flavors: Tomatoes can be quite acidic, so taste the soup before serving. If it’s too tangy, add a little sugar or more cream to balance the flavors.
Roasting Fresh Tomatoes: If using fresh tomatoes, roast them first for added depth. Simply halve the tomatoes, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes until soft and caramelized.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making tomato soup:

Overcooking the Garlic: Garlic burns easily and can become bitter, so be sure to cook it just until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Skipping the Blending: Blending the soup is crucial for achieving a smooth, creamy texture. Don’t skip this step, even if you prefer a chunkier soup; just blend it lightly.
Using Low-Quality Tomatoes: The quality of your tomatoes greatly affects the flavor of the soup. Use the best tomatoes you can find, whether canned or fresh.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Make your tomato soup even more enjoyable with these serving and presentation tips:

Serve with Grilled Cheese: A classic pairing, grilled cheese sandwiches complement the soup’s richness with their gooey, melty goodness.
Top with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or thyme adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Add Crunch: Top the soup with homemade croutons, a swirl of sour cream, or a handful of toasted nuts for added texture.

How to Serve Tomato Soup

Here are some ideas for serving tomato soup:

As a Main Course: Serve a large bowl of tomato soup as a satisfying main course, paired with a salad and some crusty bread.
As a Starter: Serve smaller portions of the soup as an appetizer to a multi-course meal. It’s a great way to warm up your guests’ appetites.
For a Crowd: If you’re hosting a gathering, keep the soup warm in a slow cooker or large pot on the stove, and let guests serve themselves.

Presentation Ideas for Tomato Soup

Make your tomato soup look as good as it tastes with these presentation ideas:

Garnish with Style: Add a swirl of cream or a drizzle of olive oil on top for an elegant touch. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or microgreens can also elevate the presentation.
Serve in Rustic Bowls: For a cozy, homestyle feel, serve the soup in rustic bowls or mugs. Pair with a wooden serving board filled with bread and cheese.
Create a Topping Bar: Set up a topping bar with options like croutons, shredded cheese, fresh herbs, and sour cream, allowing everyone to customize their soup.

Tomato Soup Recipe Tips

To ensure your tomato soup turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

Make It Ahead: Tomato soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time and reheat before serving.
Freeze for Later: This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Customize to Taste: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning, sweetness, or creaminess to your liking. This recipe is very forgiving and can be easily adapted to suit your preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Yes! You can use fresh tomatoes for this recipe. About 3-4 pounds of fresh Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes should work. Roast them first for added flavor.

Q: How can I make this soup vegan?
A: To make this soup vegan, use vegetable broth and replace the cream with coconut milk or a splash of almond milk, or simply omit the cream.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
A: Absolutely! Carrots, bell peppers, or even roasted red peppers can add extra depth of flavor. Just sauté them along with the onions and garlic.

Q: How long does tomato soup last in the refrigerator?
A: Tomato soup will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Store it in an airtight container and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Q: Can I freeze tomato soup?
A: Yes, tomato soup freezes very well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: How do I thicken the soup?
A: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth slightly, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) towards the end of cooking. Alternatively, you can stir in a bit more tomato paste or a handful of cooked rice.

Conclusion

This tomato soup recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, offering a comforting, delicious dish that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy meal on a cold day, as a starter for a dinner party, or paired with a classic grilled cheese sandwich, this soup is sure to impress. Try it out and enjoy the rich, comforting taste of homemade tomato soup, made just the way you like it!