There’s just something magical about a warm bowl of tomato soup. It’s nostalgic, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying—especially when served with a melty grilled cheese sandwich. Whether you’re cuddled up on a chilly evening or looking for a light, wholesome lunch, a good tomato soup recipe hits the spot every single time.
Forget the can—this article is all about how to make a homemade tomato soup that’s rich in flavor, easy to prepare, and packed with love. Whether you’re a kitchen pro or a beginner cook, you’re going to love how simple and rewarding this is.
🍲 What Is Tomato Soup?
Tomato soup is a smooth, often creamy, soup made primarily from tomatoes. Sounds basic, right? But there’s a reason this dish is a global favorite—it’s versatile, budget-friendly, and deeply comforting.
From silky creamy tomato soup to rustic roasted tomato soup, there are endless variations depending on taste and dietary preferences. It can be vegan, dairy-free, spicy, or herby—it’s up to you.
🛒 Ingredients for Classic Tomato Soup
This recipe is simple and made with pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need to serve about 4 people:
Basic Tomato Soup Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ lbs fresh ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cans whole peeled tomatoes)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (for depth)
- 2 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk (for creaminess)
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)
- 1 tsp dried basil or a handful of fresh basil leaves
- Croutons, grilled cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil for garnish
👨🍳 How to Make Tomato Soup – Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, just until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Tomato Paste
Stir in the tomatoes and tomato paste. If you’re using canned tomatoes, crush them with a spoon while cooking. Cook for about 10 minutes until the tomatoes soften and break down.
💡 Tip: Roasting fresh tomatoes in the oven for 20-30 minutes before adding gives an incredible depth of flavor.
Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in the broth and add sugar, salt, pepper, and any herbs or spices you like (basil, red pepper flakes, thyme). Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 15–20 minutes.
Step 4: Blend Until Smooth
Remove the soup from heat and use an immersion blender to puree until smooth. No immersion blender? No worries—transfer to a regular blender in batches.
🧄 Want a chunkier texture? Blend only half the soup and leave the rest as-is for some bite.
Step 5: Add Cream (Optional)
For a creamy tomato soup, stir in heavy cream or coconut milk. Simmer for another 5 minutes, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle into bowls, top with croutons or basil, and serve hot with grilled cheese on the side. Perfection.
🌿 Tomato Soup Variations
There are many delicious ways to put a twist on this classic tomato soup recipe. Here are some of our favorites:
1. Roasted Tomato Soup
Roast halved tomatoes, garlic, and onions in the oven with olive oil before blending. It adds a rich, caramelized flavor.
2. Tomato Basil Soup
Add a handful of fresh basil to the blender for a bright, herbaceous touch.
3. Spicy Tomato Soup
Add red chili flakes or a chopped jalapeño for a spicy kick.
4. Vegan Tomato Soup
Use olive oil and skip the cream. Add coconut milk or cashew cream if you want that silky texture.
5. Cheesy Tomato Soup
Top each bowl with shredded cheddar or parmesan for a cheesy upgrade.
🥖 What to Serve with Tomato Soup
Tomato soup is a star on its own, but it’s even better when paired with:
- Classic grilled cheese sandwich
- Garlic bread or crusty baguette
- Caesar salad or mixed greens
- Crackers or croutons
- A drizzle of pesto or balsamic glaze
For a cozy winter meal, add a baked potato or simple sandwich on the side.
🧊 Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing:
- Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
- Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
- Let cool completely before freezing.
- Leave a little space in containers for expansion.
Reheating:
- Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat.
- Stir frequently and add a splash of water or broth if it thickens.
🥄 Nutrition at a Glance
Homemade tomato soup is naturally low in calories and high in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene, which is known for its health benefits.
If you’re watching your diet:
- Skip the cream to lower fat and calories
- Use low-sodium broth to reduce salt
- Add beans or lentils for a protein boost
🍅 Final Thoughts: Why This Tomato Soup Recipe Is a Keeper
If you’ve never made homemade tomato soup before, this recipe is the perfect place to start. It’s comforting, flavorful, flexible, and comes together in under an hour with minimal fuss.
Whether you’re feeding your family on a weeknight, meal prepping for the week, or just need a warm bowl of love, this soup delivers every single time.
So grab those tomatoes, fire up your pot, and get ready to ladle out some serious comfort. You’ll never look at canned soup the same way again.
