Simple Tomato Soup Recipe

If you are looking for a comforting and cozy meal that warms you from the inside out, this Simple Tomato Soup is an absolute must-try. Bursting with the natural sweetness of perfectly cooked tomatoes, combined with the gentle aroma of sautéed onions and garlic, it’s the kind of soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re new to making soup or a seasoned home cook, this recipe proves how a handful of simple ingredients can come together beautifully to create a dish that’s both nourishing and deeply satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Simple Tomato Soup lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing an essential role in delivering that rich, comforting flavor and silky texture you crave. These basics keep the soup fresh, vibrant, and totally irresistible.

Chopped tomatoes: The star of the dish, fresh or canned tomatoes provide natural sweetness and body to the soup.
Onions: They add a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed until soft and translucent.
Garlic: Just a couple of cloves brighten the flavor with their warm, aromatic punch.
Vegetable or chicken broth: This creates the perfect liquid base, enhancing the soup’s savory profile.
Cream (optional): A splash of cream swirls in extra richness and smoothness, taking the soup to the next level.
Olive oil or butter: For gently cooking the onions and garlic, bringing out their flavors without overpowering.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning balances the sweet and tangy notes of the tomatoes.

How to Make Simple Tomato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and garlic, cooking them slowly until they are soft, fragrant, and just starting to turn golden. This step is crucial as it builds the base flavor that makes the soup so inviting.

Step 2: Cook the Tomatoes

Add the chopped tomatoes to the softened onions and garlic. Stir them together and let them simmer gently. This process breaks down the tomatoes, releasing their juices and concentrating their natural sweetness, creating wonderful body and flavor in the soup.

Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in your vegetable or chicken broth to the pot, using enough to achieve your desired soup consistency. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld for about 15 to 20 minutes. This simmer infuses the broth with the rich tomato goodness you want in every spoonful.

Step 4: Blend Until Smooth

Once the tomatoes and broth have cooked together perfectly, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the mixture to a blender. Blend until silky smooth. This blending step creates that luxuriously creamy texture without needing to add thickening agents.

Step 5: Add Cream and Season

Return the blended soup to the heat, and stir in a splash of cream if desired. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then give it one final gentle warm through. The cream brightens the soup’s flavor and lends an indulgent silkiness that’s hard to resist.

How to Serve Simple Tomato Soup

Garnishes

To enhance your Simple Tomato Soup, consider topping it with fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper. Even a few toasted pine nuts or grated Parmesan cheese can add delightful texture and bursts of flavor.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with all kinds of bread—think crusty baguette, garlic toast, or a warm grilled cheese sandwich. The crunch and richness from these sides perfectly complement the smooth, tomatoey warmth of the soup.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve the soup in rustic bowls with a swirl of cream artfully drizzled on top. Try adding a toasted crouton garnish or layering the soup in small jars for a casual get-together or picnic style meal. Presentation can make a simple tomato soup feel special and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Simple Tomato Soup, cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it an easy go-to for quick meals later in the week.

Freezing

This soup freezes wonderfully, so don’t hesitate to make a double batch. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge if possible. Warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If reheating from chilled leftovers, warm slowly and add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes for the Simple Tomato Soup?

Absolutely! High-quality canned tomatoes work beautifully and are often even better during off-season months when fresh tomatoes lack flavor. Just choose whole peeled or crushed varieties for the best texture.

Is it necessary to add cream to the soup?

Nope! The cream is optional and simply adds richness, but the soup is delicious and naturally creamy thanks to the blending of the tomatoes and broth.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes, just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the cream or substitute it with a plant-based cream alternative to keep it fully vegan.

How long does the soup take to cook?

From start to finish, you’re looking at about 35 minutes total—10 minutes prep and about 25 minutes cooking time. It’s quick enough for a weekday meal!

What’s the best way to achieve a smooth texture?

Using a high-powered blender or immersion blender will give you the silkiest soup. If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse less or blend just part of the soup and mix back in.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a bowl of Simple Tomato Soup that never goes out of style. It’s a timeless comfort food that’s easy to make, packed with wholesome ingredients, and endlessly satisfying. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to for warming dinners and cozy afternoons.