There’s just something about a warm bowl of creamy tomato soup that feels like a big, cozy hug on a chilly day, don’t you think? It’s smooth, rich, and oh-so-comforting. I remember the first time I made this Creamy Tomato Soup—it was a rainy afternoon, and I had just come home from a long day. The aroma of sautéed onions and garlic filled my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits! Plus, it’s so easy to whip up; you’ll be enjoying it in just about 30 minutes. This soup is perfect for dipping your favorite grilled cheese sandwich or just savoring on its own. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Soup
Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Creamy Tomato Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This will help sauté the onions and garlic, adding a lovely depth of flavor.
- 1 onion, chopped: A medium onion works perfectly here. It adds sweetness and richness to the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key! It brings a wonderful aroma and flavor to the dish.
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes: You can use your favorite brand—look for ones with no added sugar for the best flavor!
- 2 cups vegetable broth: This is the base of your soup; feel free to use homemade or store-bought, whichever you prefer.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This makes the soup super creamy and rich. You can adjust the amount based on how indulgent you want it!
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Trust me on this one—it balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season to your liking! Freshly cracked pepper adds a nice kick.
- Fresh basil for garnish: Nothing beats the fresh touch of basil on top of your warm soup!
Now that you have everything ready, you’re all set to dive into the cooking process!
How to Prepare Creamy Tomato Soup
Time to get cooking! Making this Creamy Tomato Soup is as easy as pie, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together. Let’s dive into the steps!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle but not smoking—about 1-2 minutes will do!
- Sauté the onion: Add the chopped onion and cook it for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s translucent and fragrant. This is where the magic starts, and your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Add the garlic: Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute. Be careful not to let it burn—garlic can go from perfect to charred in a flash!
- Incorporate the tomatoes and broth: Pour in the can of crushed tomatoes and 2 cups of vegetable broth. Give it a good stir to combine everything.
- Bring to a simmer: Turn up the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 15 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully!
- Add cream and sugar: After 15 minutes, stir in the 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 teaspoon of sugar. The cream will turn the soup a lovely shade of pink and make it incredibly rich.
- Season it up: Season with salt and pepper to taste. I usually start with a pinch of each and adjust based on my personal preference!
- Blend until smooth: Now comes the fun part! If you have an immersion blender, blend the soup right in the pot until it’s silky smooth. If you’re using a regular blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to blend—just be cautious of the hot liquid! (Always vent the lid slightly to avoid a messy explosion!)
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor!
And there you have it! A delicious, creamy tomato soup ready to warm your soul. Enjoy every spoonful!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about the numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional information for a serving of this Creamy Tomato Soup. Of course, these values can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use, but it gives you a good idea of what to expect:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 5g
With all that creamy goodness, it’s a comforting meal that still gives you a nice balance of nutrients. Enjoy it guilt-free, and remember, these are just estimates to help guide you on your delicious journey!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: You can whip up this Creamy Tomato Soup in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Comforting and Warm: There’s nothing quite like a bowl of this soup on a chilly day. It wraps you in warmth and nostalgia!
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of crushed tomatoes, garlic, and cream creates a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a light lunch, a cozy dinner, or even as an appetizer before a fancy meal. It’s always a hit!
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to make it your own. Basil, thyme, or even a dash of red pepper flakes can elevate it further!
- Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers store beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping. Just heat and enjoy later!
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters can’t resist the creamy goodness of this soup. Serve it with a grilled cheese, and you’ve got a winning meal!
Tips for Success
Alright, my fellow soup enthusiasts, let’s make sure your Creamy Tomato Soup turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my top tips that I swear by:
- Use quality tomatoes: The flavor of your soup starts with the tomatoes, so don’t skimp here! Opt for high-quality crushed tomatoes—look for brands that use San Marzano tomatoes if you can find them. They’re sweeter and less acidic!
- Fresh herbs make a difference: If you have fresh basil handy, use it! Toss in a handful while the soup simmers for a burst of flavor. You can also blend in some fresh herbs at the end for an extra aromatic kick.
- Don’t skip the sugar: I know it sounds strange, but trust me, the teaspoon of sugar helps balance that acidity from the tomatoes. It’s like magic! You can even use honey or maple syrup for a fun twist.
- Adjust the creaminess: If you want a lighter soup, feel free to cut back on the cream or substitute half-and-half or even whole milk. Just remember, it won’t be quite as rich, but it’ll still be delicious!
- Experiment with spices: Want to jazz things up? Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for an herby vibe. You can really play around with the flavors!
- Blend it well: For the smoothest texture, give your soup a good blend. If you’re using a regular blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending in batches to avoid any splatters. Safety first, right?
- Serve with flair: When it’s time to serve, consider drizzling a bit of extra virgin olive oil or a dollop of sour cream on top. It adds a lovely finishing touch and makes your soup look fancy!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a Creamy Tomato Soup that’s not just good, but absolutely spectacular! Enjoy the process and don’t forget to taste as you go—your palate is your best guide!
Variations on Creamy Tomato Soup
If you’re like me, you love a good recipe that you can play around with! This Creamy Tomato Soup is no exception. Here are some fun and delicious variations to consider, each bringing its own twist to this comforting dish:
- Herb Infusion: Switch things up by adding fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or even a hint of rosemary while the soup simmers. They’ll infuse the broth with delightful aromatic flavors!
- Spicy Kick: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat. It’ll give your soup a nice zing that pairs beautifully with the creaminess!
- Veggie Boost: Toss in some diced carrots or bell peppers when you sauté the onions. They’ll add extra nutrition and a pop of color. For a heartier version, consider adding some chopped spinach or kale right before blending!
- Cheesy Goodness: Swirl in some grated Parmesan or a dollop of cream cheese after blending for an extra creamy and cheesy delight. It adds a wonderful richness that’s hard to resist!
- Smoky Flavor: For a twist, try adding a bit of smoked paprika or even some diced smoked sausage as it cooks. The smoky notes will elevate your soup to a whole new level!
- Roasted Tomato Version: If you have the time, roast fresh tomatoes until caramelized and sweet before blending them into the soup. The roasting brings out an incredible depth of flavor!
- Protein Addition: Want to make it a bit more filling? Add shredded cooked chicken or chickpeas for a protein boost. They’ll complement the soup while keeping it satisfying!
With these variations, you can keep things fresh and exciting each time you whip up your Creamy Tomato Soup. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make it your own—after all, cooking is all about having fun in the kitchen!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got some Creamy Tomato Soup left over? No worries! Storing it properly is key to keeping that delicious flavor intact. Here’s how I do it:
- Storing leftovers: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation from forming, which can make your soup watery. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days—just make sure to seal it well!
- Freezing for later: If you want to save some for a rainy day, this soup freezes beautifully! Just pour it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving a little space at the top, as soup expands when frozen. It’ll keep well for about 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, here’s how to reheat it without sacrificing any of that creamy goodness:
- Reheating on the stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot and heat it over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure it warms evenly. If the soup seems too thick after thawing, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Microwave method: If you’re in a hurry, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely to prevent splattering, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until it’s hot all the way through.
And there you have it! Whether you’re savoring it fresh or reheating those cozy leftovers, that Creamy Tomato Soup is sure to bring warmth and comfort back to your table. Enjoy every last drop!
FAQ About Creamy Tomato Soup
Got questions about making the perfect Creamy Tomato Soup? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries I’ve come across, along with my best answers to help you out:
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh tomatoes, go for it! Just roast or simmer them until they’re soft and sweet, then blend them into the soup. You might need to add a bit more liquid, like vegetable broth, to reach your desired consistency.
How can I make the soup dairy-free?
No problem! You can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream for a creamy texture without the dairy. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning to balance the flavors!
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Definitely! This Creamy Tomato Soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently before serving. It’s perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner on a busy weeknight!
What should I serve with the soup?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! It pairs beautifully with a classic grilled cheese sandwich, a fresh salad, or even some crunchy garlic bread. You could also top it with croutons for an added crunch!
How can I make the soup spicier?
If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while the soup simmers. You could also blend in a jalapeño or a bit of cayenne pepper for that extra kick!
Can I freeze the soup?
You sure can! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop!
Why is my soup too acidic?
If you find your soup is a bit too acidic, don’t fret! A pinch of sugar, as mentioned in the recipe, helps balance that out. You can also add a splash more cream or even a bit of baking soda to neutralize the acidity. Just go easy with the baking soda—start with a tiny pinch!
If you have any other questions or need further tips, feel free to reach out! I’m always here to help you create the best Creamy Tomato Soup ever!
Print
Creamy Tomato Soup: 7 Reasons You’ll Adore This Cozy Meal
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A smooth and creamy tomato soup that is comforting and easy to make.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and sugar.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Blend the soup until smooth.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Notes
- Use fresh tomatoes if preferred.
- Adjust cream for desired richness.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Creamy Tomato Soup, Tomato Soup Recipe, Easy Tomato Soup