Name: Easy Tomato Soup Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 Tbsp unsalted butter; 3 cups yellow onions, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 56 oz crushed tomatoes (two, 28-oz cans, preferably San Marzano); 2 cups chicken stock; 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (plus more to serve); 1 Tbsp sugar (or added to taste); 1/2 tsp black pepper (or to taste); 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (or to taste to combat acidity); 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated (plus more to serve)

Introduction to Easy Tomato Soup Recipe

Why Tomato Soup?

Tomato soup is a timeless classic that brings comfort to any meal. Packed with flavor and nutrition, it’s not just a cozy dish but also incredibly versatile. Whether you enjoy it paired with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich or a fresh salad, this soup warms the soul and delights the palate. According to a report by the USDA, tomatoes are a great source of vitamins C and K, which means that you're not only treating yourself but also nourishing your body.

A Quick Personal Anecdote

I vividly remember the first time I made a simple tomato soup recipe while living in a tiny apartment. I was feeling under the weather and craved something warm and uplifting. With just a few cans of tomatoes and some pantry staples, I whipped up a comforting bowl of soup in under 30 minutes. The aroma filled my kitchen, transforming my gloom into hope! It quickly became my go-to recipe, teaching me that simple ingredients can lead to incredible flavors. If you also love the idea of a quick and satisfying meal, join me in exploring this easy tomato soup recipe that you can whip up any day of the week! Learn more about tomatoes and their benefits here.

Ready to dig into the deliciousness? Let’s get started!

Ingredients for Easy Tomato Soup Recipe

Creating a cozy bowl of easy tomato soup doesn't have to be complicated. Here’s a peek at what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish!

Essential Ingredients List

4 Tbsp unsalted butter
2 yellow onions, finely chopped (about 3 cups)
3 garlic cloves, minced (about 1 Tbsp)
56 oz crushed tomatoes (preferably two 28-oz cans of San Marzano)
2 cups chicken stock or vegetable broth for a lighter option
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (plus more for garnish)
1 Tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper (or to taste)
½ cup heavy whipping cream (to balance acidity)
⅓ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)

Optional Garnishes

Want to elevate your easy tomato soup recipe even further? Consider these garnishes:

Fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor
A drizzle of olive oil for richness
Extra parmesan cheese to sprinkle on top
Croutons for a delightful crunch

For more inspiration on what to pair with your soup, check out our guide on great grilled cheese additions that can complement this comforting dish perfectly!

Step-by-step Preparation of Easy Tomato Soup Recipe

Crafting a delightful bowl of easy tomato soup is simpler than you might think! This recipe gives you that comforting, creamy goodness in just 30 minutes. Let’s dive into the preparation steps you’ll need to follow for a flawless result.

Sauté the onions

Start by heating a nonreactive pot or an enameled Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, and let it melt. Once the butter starts to bubble, toss in 2 finely chopped yellow onions. Sauté the onions for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You're aiming for them to become soft and golden, which will enhance their sweetness and flavor. This step not only forms the aromatic base of your soup but also sets the stage for a delicious taste that speaks of comforting home-cooked food.

Add garlic and tomatoes

With the onions perfectly sautéed, it’s time to infuse some bold flavors. Add 3 minced garlic cloves to the pot and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. The aroma will be irresistible! Now, introduce 56 ounces of crushed tomatoes (preferably San Marzano, if you can find them) along with their juice. The tomatoes will bring the heart of this easy tomato soup recipe—sweet, tangy, and utterly delicious. Stir everything together to combine, and get ready for the next phase.

Incorporate broth and seasonings

Now comes the fun part! Pour in 2 cups of chicken stock, followed by ¼ cup of chopped fresh basil, a tablespoon of sugar (to balance acidity), and about ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Stir it all together and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat, partially cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This melding of flavors is what makes your soup truly comforting. If you're keen, you can read more about balancing acidity in tomato-based dishes here.

Blend for desired consistency

After your soup has simmered, and as you waft the delightful aromas wafting through your kitchen, feel free to adjust its texture. If you prefer a chunky texture, you’re good to go! For a creamier soup, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the soup to a blender—just ensure not to overfill it, and pulse gently to start. Blend to your desired consistency for that comforting creaminess.

Stir in cream and cheese

Finally, turn the heat back to medium and stir in ½ cup of heavy whipping cream and ⅓ cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese. Both ingredients will enhance richness while balancing the acidity. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and your soup is ready to serve! Ladle into warm bowls, topping with extra parmesan and fresh basil for that restaurant-quality presentation.

This easy tomato soup is not just quick to make; it creates a wonderful opportunity for casual entertaining or a cozy night in. Enjoy!

Variations of Easy Tomato Soup Recipe

Tomato Basil Variations

Looking to elevate your easy tomato soup recipe? Try adding fresh ingredients! Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy kick. You can also toss in extra herbs like oregano or thyme for more depth. If you love cheese, a dollop of ricotta on top adds creaminess that pairs beautifully with the basil. For a smoky twist, a bit of roasted red pepper can bring a new dimension to your soup.

Spicy Tomato Soup Twists

Want a little heat in your easy tomato soup? Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes during cooking, or stir in a spoonful of harissa for a North African flair. For those who enjoy a southwestern taste, a handful of corn and black beans can transform your soup into a zesty meal. A drizzle of hot sauce or sriracha just before serving will surely satisfy spice lovers!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Easy Tomato Soup Recipe

Equipment Tips

For your easy tomato soup recipe, a sturdy nonreactive pot or enameled dutch oven is essential. These materials help prevent reactions with acidic ingredients like tomatoes. An immersion blender is fantastic for achieving that silky smooth texture without the mess of transferring hot soup to a regular blender.

Storage Advice

This creamy tomato soup stores beautifully! Once cooled, transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 5 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, just add a splash of chicken stock or water to bring back its creamy consistency.

For more storage tips and soup ideas, check out resources from The Kitchn and Serious Eats. They have fantastic insights to help elevate your cooking experience!

Serving Suggestions for Easy Tomato Soup Recipe

Pairing with Grilled Cheese

What’s better than a warm bowl of easy tomato soup recipe accompanied by a classic grilled cheese sandwich? The gooey, melty cheese pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of the soup, creating a nostalgic comfort food experience. For an extra twist, try using a blend of cheeses or adding sliced avocado or turkey bacon to your sandwich for a gourmet touch.

Creative Accompaniments

Looking to elevate your meal? Consider these delightful add-ons:

Herb-Infused Olive Oil: Drizzle some over your soup for an aromatic kick.
Spicy Croutons: Add a little crunch and heat to each spoonful.
Fresh Basil or Parsley: A few sprigs on top brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise.

Experiment with these options to make your easy tomato soup recipe even more satisfying! Want more ideas? Check out Greatist for unique flavor combinations that will transform your soup night.

Time Breakdown for Easy Tomato Soup Recipe

Preparation time

In just 5 minutes, you can have all your ingredients ready to blend together. This quick prep time means you can enjoy a comforting bowl of soup without a lengthy wait.

Cooking time

The cooking process takes approximately 25 minutes. You'll sauté your onions, simmer your tomatoes, and finish with that creamy richness, all in under half an hour.

Total time

Overall, you’re looking at a delightful 30-minute experience from start to finish! Perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave a delicious, homemade meal without the fuss.

For more on making the perfect soup, check out resources like the Food Network or Serious Eats for tips and variations on classic recipes!

Nutritional Facts for Easy Tomato Soup Recipe

Calories per serving

Each serving of this easy tomato soup recipe contains approximately 222 calories. It’s a comforting option that leaves plenty of room for a tasty side without blowing your calorie budget!

Nutritional highlights

This delightful soup is rich in vitamins A and C, thanks to the crushed tomatoes and fresh basil. Moreover, the addition of heavy cream and parmesan cheese offers a delightful dose of calcium and healthy fats to keep you satisfied. The fiber content from tomatoes helps support digestive health, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.

For more insights on the benefits of tomatoes, check out the Health Benefits of Eating Tomatoes.

FAQs about Easy Tomato Soup Recipe

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! You can easily adapt this easy tomato soup recipe to be vegan-friendly. Simply substitute the unsalted butter with olive oil or vegan butter. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock and skip the heavy cream altogether or replace it with coconut milk or a plant-based cream. You can also ditch the parmesan cheese or opt for a vegan cheese alternative. Your soup will still be creamy and delicious.

How do I fix overly acidic soup?

If you find your soup has turned out too acidic, don’t worry! You can balance the flavors by adding more heavy cream or a touch of sugar. If you're aiming for a healthier option, try adding a pinch of baking soda, which can neutralize acidity. Just a small amount will do the trick—start with ¼ teaspoon and adjust as needed.

Can leftovers be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze any leftovers of this easy tomato soup! Store them in an airtight container or freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. When you're ready to enjoy your soup, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or reheat it straight from the freezer over low heat. For best texture, consider adding a splash of vegetable or chicken stock when reheating. Enjoy!

For more tips on storing soups, check out this helpful article on food storage techniques.

Conclusion on Easy Tomato Soup Recipe

Recap of Benefits

This easy tomato soup recipe is not only quick—taking just 30 minutes—but it also packs a flavor punch with its creamy texture and rich ingredients like fresh basil and parmesan. Plus, it’s a perfect companion to grilled cheese, making it an ideal comfort meal.

Encouragement to Try It Out

So why not whip up this delightful soup the next time you crave something warm and satisfying? We're confident once you try it, this easy tomato soup recipe will become a regular in your kitchen rotation. Enjoy the simplicity and joy it brings!