Tomato soup is one of the most comforting and nostalgic dishes, known for its smooth texture, vibrant color, and rich flavor.
Whether you enjoy it on a cold winter night, serve it as a starter for a family dinner, or pair it with a classic grilled cheese sandwich, a homemade tomato soup recipe always elevates the experience.
This version is easy, flavorful, and made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
Tomato Soup Recipe
This homemade tomato soup is creamy, savory, and deeply satisfying. It uses ripe tomatoes—or quality canned tomatoes—for a rich base, while onions, garlic, and herbs bring depth of flavor.
A touch of cream or milk adds silkiness without overpowering the natural taste of the tomatoes.
Unlike many store-bought soups, this version contains no preservatives and allows you to adjust the thickness, creaminess, and seasoning exactly to your taste.
Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, meal prep, or cozy seasonal cooking, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes and delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4–5 medium ripe tomatoes, chopped (or one 28-oz can crushed tomatoes)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, helps balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil or Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for creaminess)
- Fresh basil or croutons for garnish
Instructions
Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Once the onions are tender, add the chopped tomatoes (or canned crushed tomatoes) and tomato paste. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and season with dried basil, salt, pepper, and sugar if needed. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes.
This simmering step allows the tomatoes to break down and the flavors to deepen.
Once cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth.
If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and blend until creamy.
Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream or milk if you prefer a silky texture.
Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. Let the soup warm through for 2–3 minutes, then serve hot.
Garnish with fresh basil, a drizzle of cream, or crunchy croutons.
Tomato Soup Options
| Alternative Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Creamy Tomato Basil Soup | Adds extra cream and fresh basil for a richer and more aromatic version. |
| Roasted Tomato Soup | Made by roasting tomatoes, garlic, and onions before blending for deeper, smoky flavor. |
| Spicy Tomato Soup | Includes red pepper flakes or cayenne to give the soup a bold, spicy kick. |
| Tomato Carrot Soup | Blends carrots with tomatoes for natural sweetness and added nutrients. |
| Tomato Lentil Soup | Adds cooked red lentils for a protein-packed, thicker, heartier soup. |
Conclusion
Tomato soup is a timeless classic that deserves a place in every kitchen. This easy homemade version is flavorful, customizable, and far better than anything from a can.
With simple ingredients and quick steps, you can prepare a smooth, comforting bowl anytime you’re craving warmth and nourishment.
Pair it with grilled cheese, garlic bread, or a fresh salad for the perfect meal.