Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 410
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
Why Make This Best Creamy Tomato Soup
There’s something incredibly comforting about a steaming bowl of creamy tomato soup, especially when the weather is a bit chilly or you’re in need of a cozy meal. This Best Creamy Tomato Soup recipe stands out as it combines the bright, tangy flavor of tomatoes with the rich smoothness of heavy cream, creating a heavenly balance that’s hard to resist. With just a few ingredients, this soup is not only easy to make but also quick! It’s the perfect dish for a busy weeknight, and it can even impress guests at a dinner party. Each spoonful offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that warms your heart and satisfies your cravings.
How to Make Best Creamy Tomato Soup
Making this soup is as straightforward as it is rewarding. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious pot of creamy tomato soup ready in no time!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, which will take about 5 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld and creates a fragrant base for the soup.
Step 3: Cooking the Tomatoes
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, sugar, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This simmering step helps deepen the flavors and thicken the soup slightly.
Step 4: Finishing the Soup
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s perfectly smooth. Stir in the heavy cream and heat through until everything is warm. This addition of cream creates that luxurious texture that makes this soup truly creamy.
Step 5: Serving
Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added flavor. Enjoy the aroma as it wafts through your kitchen!
How to Serve Best Creamy Tomato Soup
This creamy tomato soup is fantastic on its own but pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches or crispy croutons. You can also serve it with a side salad for a light lunch or dinner. For a more filling meal, consider adding some cooked pasta or rice right into the soup!
How to Store Best Creamy Tomato Soup
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To keep the soup fresh, avoid reheating the entire batch; instead, heat only what you plan to eat. If you want to freeze it, pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove.
Expert Tips for Perfect Best Creamy Tomato Soup
- For a deeper flavor, use roasted tomatoes instead of canned, or add a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra tang.
- If the soup is too thick for your liking, feel free to add more vegetable broth or a bit of water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- For a spicier kick, toss in some red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic and onions.
- To make it a bit lighter, consider substituting half of the heavy cream with milk or a plant-based milk if you prefer.
Delicious Variations
- Herbed Tomato Soup: Blend in fresh herbs like thyme or oregano right before serving for a fresh twist.
- Spicy Tomato Soup: Add fresh jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to give it a spicy flair.
- Cheesy Tomato Soup: Stir in some grated Parmesan or mozzarella right before serving for an extra cheesy experience.
- Vegetable-packed Tomato Soup: Add diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers during the sautéing step for added nutrition and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! You’ll need about 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes. Roast or simmer them down until they’re soft before adding to the recipe. -
Is it possible to make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and use vegetable broth. Be sure the sugar is also vegan if you’re concerned about it. -
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup can be made a day in advance and it often tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld. -
How can I make it gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that no gluten-containing ingredients are added, like croutons or certain broths. -
What can I serve it with?
Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic pairing, but you can also serve it with crusty bread, salads, or even pasta for a heartier meal.
Conclusion
This Best Creamy Tomato Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Simple to prepare yet rich in flavor, it has the potential to become a new family favorite. Whether you enjoy it on a chilly evening or serve it to impress guests, its comforting nature makes it a delightful choice. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy making and sharing this delicious soup! Happy cooking!
