Classic Tomato Soup Recipe
If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food to warm your soul, this Classic Tomato Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with rich tomato flavor, fresh herbs, and a creamy texture, this soup perfectly balances tangy and savory notes in every spoonful. It’s unbelievably simple to make yet feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day. Whether you want a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a starter for a special meal, this recipe delivers all the goodness of homemade tomato soup with just the right touch of indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Classic Tomato Soup Recipe lies in how straightforward the ingredients are. Each one plays a crucial role in crafting a soup that’s vibrant, smooth, and full of depth. From the sweetness of the tomatoes and the earthy aroma of garlic to the creamy richness of Parmesan and basil freshness, every item combines to create a soup that feels both gourmet and genuinely home-cooked.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A simple fat that helps soften the onions and garlic, building a flavorful base.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and texture to the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a subtle pungency that deepens the overall flavor profile.
- 2 (28-ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained: The heart of the soup, juicy and packed with robust tomato flavor.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Creates the perfect liquid base, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Gives the soup its luscious, velvety finish and smooth texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory umami notes and a gentle sharpness.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil: Brightens the soup with fresh herbal tones.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together harmoniously.
How to Make Classic Tomato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
Begin your soup-making journey by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This gentle oil provides the perfect foundation for softening your aromatics without burning them, creating a fragrant base that will enhance every other ingredient.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
Add the chopped onion to the warm olive oil and cook until it turns soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step is crucial because it unlocks the natural sweetness of the onions and sets the tone for the entire soup.
Step 3: Add the Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just one more minute. Garlic has a way of transforming the flavor subtly and beautifully, so don’t skip this step or let it brown—you want that aromatic punch without bitterness.
Step 4: Stir in Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in your undrained diced tomatoes along with the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 20 minutes. This slow simmer allows the flavors to mingle and deepen, building a robust tomato base.
Step 5: Blend the Soup
Grab your immersion blender to puree the soup right in the pot until it’s completely smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup to a blender and puree it in batches. This blending is what creates that signature velvety texture you crave in a classic tomato soup.
Step 6: Add Cream and Cheese
Now the fun part—stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh basil. These ingredients lend creaminess, richness, and fresh herbal brightness that transform the soup from simple to spectacular. Finish off by seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, tailoring the flavor perfectly to your liking.
How to Serve Classic Tomato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes elevate your bowl of soup and make every spoonful feel special. Sprinkle extra fresh basil leaves or a pinch of grated Parmesan on top for visual and flavor appeal. A swirl of cream or a drizzle of olive oil can add a lovely finishing touch that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.
Side Dishes
Classic tomato soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread—think warm sourdough or a buttery baguette perfect for dipping. If you want to keep things cozy, a grilled cheese sandwich is a match made in heaven. For lighter options, crunchy crackers or a simple side salad complement the soup beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this Classic Tomato Soup Recipe for guests, consider presenting it in mini cups or shot glasses as starters, garnished with a basil leaf for a chic look. Alternatively, serve it in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic, inviting presentation that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps really well in the fridge. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors will actually marry beautifully overnight, so the next day’s soup may taste even better!
Freezing
If you want to enjoy your Classic Tomato Soup Recipe later, freezing is an excellent option. Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months, making it an ideal make-ahead meal for busy days.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Avoid boiling as the cream can separate. A gentle warm-up preserves that irresistible creamy texture and fresh taste every time.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian without losing any delicious flavor. The soup will still be rich and satisfying.
Is fresh basil necessary or can I use dried?
Fresh basil really brightens the soup with its vibrant flavor and aroma, but if you only have dried basil, you can use it—just add a teaspoon during cooking. Just note that fresh basil has a fresher, livelier impact.
Can I omit the heavy cream for a lighter version?
Yes, you can. Skipping the cream will yield a more traditional, tangy tomato soup that’s lighter but still tasty. For a creamy feel without dairy, try adding coconut milk or a splash of plant-based cream.
What’s the best way to blend the soup smoothly?
An immersion blender is super convenient because you can blend the soup right in the pot. If using a regular blender, blend in batches and be careful with the hot liquid to avoid spills.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Definitely! Carrots or roasted red peppers make excellent additions, adding sweetness and complexity. Just sauté or roast them with the onions before adding the tomatoes and broth.
Final Thoughts
If comfort food had a champion, this Classic Tomato Soup Recipe would be it without a doubt. It’s simple, heartfelt, and endlessly satisfying, making it a go-to for any time you want something soothing and delicious. I encourage you to dive in and make this soup your own—it’s a timeless recipe that always feels like a warm, delicious hug.
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Classic Tomato Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Classic Tomato Soup is a velvety, flavorful soup made by simmering diced tomatoes, sautéed onions, and garlic in chicken broth, then blended smooth and enriched with creamy heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil. Perfect for a comforting meal served warm with crusty bread or crackers.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (28-ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil until it shimmers, preparing the base for sautéing.
- Sauté the Onion: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook it until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid browning.
- Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Stir in Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes along with the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 20 minutes to develop the flavors.
- Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and puree until creamy.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh basil. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed to enhance flavor.
- Serve: Ladle the warm tomato soup into bowls and serve immediately with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Use fresh tomatoes in season for an extra vibrant flavor.
- To make the soup spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.
- The soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
