Tomato Soup | Easy Creamy Tomato Soup
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is a comforting dish that warms the soul and tantalizes the taste buds. Its velvety texture is a hug in a bowl, combining the freshness of tomatoes with aromatic herbs. From the first simmer, you’re greeted with an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen, setting the stage for a delightful meal. This is not just any tomato soup; it’s creamy, rich, and satisfying, achieving that perfect balance that elevates this humble dish to gourmet status. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly evening or serving it at a gathering, this soup checks all the boxes.
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Reflecting on when I first made this easy creamy tomato soup recipe, I’ll always remember a rainy day when I craved something warm and inviting. This dish quickly transformed into a staple in my home, loved by everyone at the table. As the ingredients simmer together, they create a depth of flavor that rivals any restaurant version. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, swift to prepare, and so versatile that you’ll want to whip it up again and again. I can’t wait for you to try it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: With just 35 minutes from prep to serving, it’s a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
- Irresistible Flavor: The blend of sweet tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy half-and-half will have your taste buds dancing.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: It’s a vibrant red color topped with fresh basil and crunchy croutons—so inviting!
- Flexible Serving: Enjoy it as a comforting lunch, a starter for dinner, or a cozy snack at any time of day.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily make it gluten-free with correct stock choices, and it can be converted to dairy-free if needed.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – This adds richness; you can substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free version.
- 1 onion, about 1 cup, minced – A base layer of flavor, though shallots work well if you want a milder taste.
- 1 cup leek, chopped – It brings a gentle sweetness; if unavailable, yellow onion can substitute.
- 1 can peeled plum tomatoes (14-ounce/400 milliliters) – Using high-quality canned tomatoes elevates the flavor; fresh tomatoes work too in season.
- 2 cups vegetable stock – Provides depth; chicken stock can be substituted if you’re not vegetarian.
- 2 tablespoons double-concentrated tomato paste – Enhances the tomato flavor; you can use regular paste but may need more.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Adjust to taste or use white pepper for a milder spice.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Key seasoning; consider using low-sodium options to control saltiness.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar – Balances acidity from the tomatoes; honey or maple syrup could work too.
- 2 teaspoons dried basil – Essential for aroma and flavor; fresh basil can be substituted—just double the amount.
- ½ cup half and half – For creaminess, but heavy cream or coconut milk is great alternatives.
- Fresh basil for garnish, optional – It adds a pop of color and additional flavor.
- Croutons for garnish, optional – For added texture; store-bought or homemade, they’re a must!
How to Make Tomato Soup | Easy Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
Melt the butter: In a medium pot (2 quart/2 liter), melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. This simple step creates the foundation for flavor.
Sauté aromatic vegetables: Add 1 cup of minced onion and 1 cup of chopped leek. Sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become fragrant.
Combine main ingredients: Next, add 1 can of peeled plum tomatoes, 2 cups of vegetable stock, 2 tablespoons of double-concentrated tomato paste, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, and 2 teaspoons of dried basil. Stir everything together, and feel free to crush the tomatoes slightly with your spatula to release their juices.
Bring to a boil and simmer: Cover the pot with a lid and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the flavors meld, and the soup is bubbling gently.
Stir in the cream: Slowly add in ½ cup of half and half, stirring until fully incorporated. Bring the soup to a brief boil again and remove it from the heat. This step adds that luxurious creamy texture we love!
Purée the soup: Using an immersion blender, purée the soup until it’s silky smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the mixture to a blender in batches. Just ensure you allow it to cool slightly to prevent splattering.
Adjust seasoning and serve: Finally, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and crunchy croutons for an inviting presentation.
Storing & Reheating
To store your creamy tomato soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can sit at room temperature for up to two hours, but ideally, refrigerate it for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through—about 10-15 minutes. Keep in mind that the texture may thicken, so add a splash of vegetable stock or water to refresh it.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcooking the onions and leeks; they should be soft and fragrant, not browned.
- If you prefer a chunkier texture, reserve some of the tomatoes before blending.
- A splash of balsamic vinegar added at the end brings brightness to the flavors.
- This soup pairs beautifully with grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic meal.
- For extra depth, consider roasting your tomatoes before adding them to the pot.
Warm, comforting, and unbelievably creamy, this tomato soup recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home. It encourages creativity too; try adding your favorite seasonings or spices to create a unique version! I hope you’ll find it as enjoyable as I do—each spoonful is a little burst of happiness.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh tomatoes, use about 2 pounds of ripe Roma or vine tomatoes. Roast them for added flavor before adding them to the soup.
How can I make this soup vegan?
To make this delicious soup vegan, simply switch the half-and-half with coconut milk or use a plant-based cream alternative. Ensure the vegetable stock is also vegan-friendly.
Can I add protein to the soup?
Yes! For heartier soup, consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas. They pair beautifully with the flavors of tomatoes and basil.
How can I enhance the flavor of this soup?
Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a drizzle of olive oil before serving for an extra depth of flavor. Fresh herbs, like thyme or oregano, can be delightful additions too!
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📖 Recipe Card
Tomato Soup | Easy Creamy Tomato Soup
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soups
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This easy creamy tomato soup features fresh tomatoes, sautéed leeks, and a hint of basil, promising a rich and comforting dish that’s perfect for any quick meal. Enjoy homemade goodness in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 onion, about 1 cup, minced
- 1 cup leek, chopped
- 1 can peeled plum tomatoes (14-ounce/400 milliliters)
- 2 cups vegetable stock
- 2 tablespoons double-concentrated tomato paste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- ½ cup half and half
- fresh basil for garnish, optional
- croutons for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the minced onion and chopped leek, sautéing for 3 minutes while stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the plum tomatoes, vegetable stock, tomato paste, black pepper, salt, brown sugar, and dried basil. Use a spatula to crush the tomatoes, cover, and bring to a boil. Then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add the half and half back into the pot, bringing the mixture to a boil once more. Turn off the heat and purée the soup until it's smooth.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary before serving.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and croutons if desired.
Notes
For added flavor, make sure to sauté the vegetables until they’re soft before adding the tomatoes.
This soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic meal.
Feel free to use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for a seasonal twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
