If you are looking for a comforting hug in a bowl, then this Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Bursting with rich tomato flavor and luxuriously smooth cream, this soup is the perfect balance between tangy and velvety. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly day or simply craving something soul-soothing, this recipe elevates humble pantry ingredients into a truly unforgettable dish. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual weekends alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients combine to create a soup that’s rich in flavor, texture, and color. Each component plays a crucial role in building the depth that makes the Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe so special.
- Shallot: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic base that gently mellows as it cooks.
- Butter: Provides richness and helps caramelize the shallots for a deeper flavor.
- Garlic cloves: Gives a warm, savory punch without overpowering the tomatoes.
- Oregano: Introduces a herbal note that complements the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly.
- Red pepper flakes: Optional, but a dash adds a hint of heat to awaken the palate.
- Crushed tomatoes: The heart of the soup, bringing natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Tomato juice: Makes the soup pleasantly light and less dense, balancing the texture.
- Chicken base or bouillon: Enhances umami, making the soup savory and satisfying.
- Sugar: A touch to cut the acidity and round out the flavors beautifully.
- Heavy cream: Delivers the signature creaminess that transforms this into a silky delight.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that tie all flavors harmoniously together.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by melting butter in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it shimmers with richness. Toss in the diced shallot and cook until it starts to soften and turn translucent, releasing its gentle sweetness. Add the minced garlic next, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds to avoid burning, so the garlic’s flavor blooms perfectly without bitterness.
Step 2: Combine and Simmer Tomatoes and Spices
Pour in your crushed tomatoes and tomato juice, then sprinkle in oregano and optionally add a dash of red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. Stir in the chicken base and sugar, which bring savory depth and balance to the tomatoes’ natural acidity. Let the mixture come just to a boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook uncovered for about 15 minutes, letting all those vibrant flavors meld beautifully.
Step 3: Finish with Cream and Seasoning
After the tomatoes have simmered to perfection, stir in the heavy cream to achieve that signature velvety texture that makes this soup so addictive. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting as needed until the balance feels just right. Your Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe is now ready to serve, piping hot and utterly delicious.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is where you can add your personal flair! A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley brightens the soup visually and adds a fresh herbal note. For a bit of creaminess, swirl a dollop of sour cream or extra heavy cream on top. Crispy croutons or a handful of toasted pumpkin seeds can add wonderful texture contrast.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with a classic grilled cheese sandwich — the ultimate sidekick for tomato soup lovers. You can also serve it alongside warm, crusty bread or garlic breadsticks to mop up every last drop. For a lighter accompaniment, a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette balances the soup’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow guests? Serve the Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe in hollowed-out mini bread bowls or small, rustic mugs for a charming touch. Drizzle with a spiral of basil pesto for a pop of color and a twist of flavor. Layer a bit of shredded sharp cheddar and broil briefly on top for an indulgent, cheesy crust.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your leftover Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick meals or lunchboxes during the week.
Freezing
This soup freezes wonderfully. Place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing with cream already added — it’s best to stir in the cream after thawing for the freshest texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. If you froze the soup without cream, add the cream after reheating and blend smoothly to bring back that luscious, creamy texture we all crave.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken base with vegetable bouillon or broth, and the soup remains richly flavorful and completely vegetarian-friendly.
Is there a way to make this soup lighter?
Yes! Instead of heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free version while keeping it creamy.
Can I add fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
You can, but canned crushed tomatoes are recommended for consistent flavor and texture. If using fresh, make sure to peel and crush ripe tomatoes, and expect a slightly different, fresher taste.
How spicy is the soup with red pepper flakes?
Just a hint of warmth, not overpowering heat. You can adjust the amount or skip it completely to keep things mild and family-friendly.
What’s the best way to thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
Simmer it a bit longer uncovered, or whisk in a small slurry of cornstarch and water. Another trick is to blend a portion of the soup for a thicker texture without adding extra ingredients.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like a homemade bowl of this Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe to bring comfort and joy to your table. It’s incredibly easy to make, endlessly customizable, and deeply satisfying with every spoonful. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something so wonderfully soothing. Happy cooking!
Print
Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy tomato soup recipe combines rich, tangy crushed tomatoes with smooth heavy cream, enhanced by aromatic shallots, garlic, and a hint of oregano. Perfectly seasoned and simmered to develop deep flavors, this comforting soup is ideal for a cozy meal any time of the year.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 shallot, diced
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp oregano
- Dash of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (28-oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 5½ cups tomato juice
- 1 Tbsp chicken base or chicken bouillon
- ¼ cup sugar
Finishing
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Shallots and Garlic: In a Dutch oven over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the diced shallot and cook until it begins to soften, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato juice, and add the oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), chicken base, and sugar. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture just to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 15 minutes to develop the flavors.
- Finish With Cream and Season: Remove the soup from heat and stir in the heavy cream until fully incorporated. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve warm immediately.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken base with vegetable broth or bouillon.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the spice level or omit entirely for a milder soup.
- You can blend the soup with an immersion blender for a smoother consistency, if desired.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
- Serve with crusty bread or grilled cheese for a classic pairing.
