There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of homemade tomato soup to soothe your soul and satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re curled up on a chilly evening or looking for a quick, nourishing meal, this classic soup delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Made with fresh, simple ingredients, this recipe is easy to prepare and far superior to any canned version.

Why You’ll Love Homemade Tomato Soup

Homemade tomato soup is more than just a meal—it’s a nostalgic embrace that reminds you of cozy kitchens and the warmth of family gatherings. The vibrant flavor of fresh tomatoes, the richness of cream, and the aroma of basil come together to create a dish that’s both hearty and wholesome. Plus, it’s highly customizable, making it perfect for any palate.

Ingredients for Homemade Tomato Soup

Main Ingredients

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 pounds fresh tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Optional Additions

• A pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
• A tablespoon of tomato paste for added depth
• Croutons or grated Parmesan for serving

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	180
Protein	4g
Carbohydrates	16g
Total Fat	10g
Fiber	3g

How to Make Homemade Tomato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. This step creates the base of your soup’s flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Tomatoes

Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the tomatoes to release their juices and soften.

Step 3: Add the Broth

Pour in 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, purée the soup directly in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the mixture to a blender in batches, then return it to the pot.

Step 5: Season and Add Cream

Stir in 1 tablespoon of sugar (if using), ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ cup of heavy cream or whole milk. Heat the soup gently, but avoid boiling to keep the cream from curdling.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Serve the soup warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves. Pair it with a side of crusty bread or a gooey grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh tomatoes enhances the natural sweetness and tanginess of the soup.
2. Creamy Texture: The addition of heavy cream or milk gives the soup a rich, velvety consistency.
3. Balanced Flavors: A touch of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes, while garlic and basil add depth and freshness.
4. Customizable: From adding spices to swapping ingredients, this recipe adapts to your preferences.

Tips for the Best Homemade Tomato Soup

1. Choose the Right Tomatoes: Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes work best for their sweet, robust flavor.
2. Don’t Skip the Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer gives the flavors time to develop.
3. Blend Carefully: If using a blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid splatters.
4. Season to Taste: Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or sweetness as needed.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Pairing: Serve with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich for a nostalgic meal.
• Gourmet Touch: Top with a dollop of sour cream, crumbled goat cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil.
• Crunch Factor: Add croutons or crispy chickpeas for texture.

FAQs About Homemade Tomato Soup

1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes! Use a 28-ounce can of whole or diced tomatoes if fresh ones aren’t available.

2. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.

3. Can I freeze tomato soup?
Yes, freeze the soup (without the cream) in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Add the cream after reheating.

4. How do I thicken my soup?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, simmer the soup longer to reduce the liquid or add a spoonful of tomato paste.

5. Can I add other vegetables?
Of course! Carrots, bell peppers, or roasted red peppers can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.

6. What can I use instead of basil?
Fresh parsley, thyme, or chives work well as alternative garnishes.

Why Homemade Tomato Soup Should Be Your Next Kitchen Adventure

Making homemade tomato soup is more than just cooking—it’s creating a meal that nourishes your body and soul. This easy, versatile recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Plus, it’s a great way to use up fresh tomatoes and customize a dish that suits your taste perfectly.

So grab your pot, chop those tomatoes, and get ready to savor a bowl of creamy, comforting goodness. Your taste buds will thank you!

Print