Name: Easy Tomato Soup Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 Tbsp unsalted butter; 2 whole yellow onions ((3 cups finely chopped)); 3 cloves garlic ((1 Tbsp minced)); 56 oz crushed tomatoes ((two, 28-oz cans) with their juice, 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

Making your own tomato soup at home can be one of the most satisfying kitchen experiences. Why settle for store-bought options filled with preservatives when you can create a fresh, cozy dish that warms both your belly and soul?

Why Choose Homemade Tomato Soup Over Store-Bought Options?

Flavor and Freshness: When you whip up this easy tomato soup recipe, you control the ingredients. Think about the bright taste of ripe tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and creamy parmesan all singing in harmony. That's something pre-packaged soups simply can’t provide!
Nutrition: Homemade soups often pack in wholesome ingredients without the unnecessary additives. You can also customize it to be as healthy as you want, adjusting ingredients to fit any dietary preferences you may have.
Simplicity: This easy tomato soup recipe comes together in just 30 minutes! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, it’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend comfort dish.

By making your soup, not only are you nourishing your body, but you're also embracing the joy of cooking. So, gather those fresh ingredients and let’s dive into this delicious, creamy tomato soup that's sure to impress your friends and family! For more tips on enhancing flavors in your cooking, consider exploring articles on Food Network for inspiration!

Ingredients for Easy Tomato Soup Recipe

Essential ingredients you'll need for a creamy tomato soup

Creating a delicious easy tomato soup recipe starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for that comforting bowl of creamy goodness:

Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons to give richness and depth to the flavor.
Yellow Onions: Use 2 medium onions, which amount to about 3 cups finely chopped. They add sweetness as they sauté.
Garlic Cloves: 3 cloves minced bring warmth and aromatic appeal.
Crushed Tomatoes: Opt for 56 oz (two 28-oz cans) of quality tomatoes, ideally San Marzano, for that robust tomato flavor.
Chicken Stock: 2 cups provide a savory base; feel free to substitute with vegetable stock if you prefer.
Fresh Basil: A quarter cup of chopped basil enhances freshness, with more reserved for serving.
Sugar: Just 1 tablespoon helps balance acidity; adjust to your taste.
Black Pepper: Start with ½ teaspoon to add a touch of heat.
Heavy Whipping Cream: ½ cup makes it luxuriously creamy.
Parmesan Cheese: ⅓ cup freshly grated adds umami and enhances overall flavor.

By using these simple yet impactful ingredients, you'll have a tomato soup that's both vibrant and satisfying. For more inspiration, check out additional recipes and cooking tips at Serious Eats and Bon Appétit. Enjoy cooking!

Step-by-step Preparation of Easy Tomato Soup

Making easy tomato soup is a comforting and rewarding experience. Follow these simple steps to create an incredible bowl of soup that warms the heart and satisfies your taste buds. Let’s dive in!

Sauté the onions and garlic

Start by heating 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a nonreactive pot or an enameled Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter melts, add 2 finely chopped yellow onions (about 3 cups). Sauté the onions for about 10-12 minutes until they become soft and golden. This step is crucial as it builds a full-bodied flavor base for your soup. Once the onions are nicely caramelized, toss in 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for another minute until fragrant. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Add the crushed tomatoes and chicken stock

Now that you’ve got a savory base, it’s time to introduce the main ingredients. Add 56 ounces of crushed tomatoes (two 28-ounce cans) along with their juice—opting for San Marzano if possible. Next, pour in 2 cups of chicken stock for depth. Stir in ¼ cup of freshly chopped basil, 1 tablespoon of sugar (this balances the acidity), and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Bring this delightful mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and partially cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to help the flavors meld beautifully. Curious about the benefits of basil? Check out this article for more insights!

Simmer and season the soup

After simmering, take a moment to taste the soup—adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Don’t forget, you can always add a bit more sugar if you find the soup too tangy. This is your soup, after all!

Blend for desired consistency

Now for the fun part: blending! If you prefer a chunky soup, feel free to skip this step. But for a creamy texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot. If you don’t have one, you can carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches (remember to let it cool a bit to avoid splatters). Blend until you reach your desired consistency, whether that’s silky smooth or slightly chunky.

Stir in cream and parmesan

Return the blended soup to the pot over medium heat and stir in ½ cup of heavy cream and ⅓ cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese. This is what makes your easy tomato soup recipe so creamy and satisfying! Allow it to come to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Adjust the seasoning one last time, and then serve it hot. Top with additional parmesan and fresh basil for a delightful finishing touch!

Enjoy your homemade easy tomato soup with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal.

Variations on Easy Tomato Soup Recipe

Adding roasted red peppers for a twist

Elevate your easy tomato soup recipe by adding roasted red peppers. Simply blend in one to two cups of roasted red peppers during the mixing stage. This addition not only gives your soup a delightful sweetness but also enhances the depth of flavor, making it even more satisfying. Plus, it's a simple way to incorporate more veggies into your meal!

Infusing with herbs for extra flavor

For an aromatic touch, consider infusing your soup with herbs. Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can be added when you combine the tomatoes and chicken stock. If you’re a fan of basil, feel free to double the amount – it pairs beautifully with the tomato base. These simple additions will transform your creamy soup into an herbaceous delight.

For more tips on enhancing your soup, check out these cooking methods.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Easy Tomato Soup

Choosing the Right Tomatoes for the Best Flavor

When crafting your easy tomato soup recipe, selecting the right tomatoes is key to achieving a rich and vibrant flavor. Look for San Marzano tomatoes, renowned for their sweetness and low acidity. For a quick and convenient option, canned crushed tomatoes work beautifully—just ensure they’re of high quality.

You might also consider adding fresh tomatoes during peak season for a fresher taste. Combine a mix of different varieties like Cherry or Roma tomatoes for depth. Remember: the better the tomato, the tastier your soup! Check out resources like Serious Eats for more insights on tomatoes that suit your palate. With the right tomatoes, your soup will be a delicious warming delight!

Serving Suggestions for Easy Tomato Soup

Perfect Pairings: Grilled Cheese or Crusty Bread?

When it comes to our easy tomato soup recipe, the classic combination with grilled cheese sandwiches can't be beaten! The gooey, melty cheese complements the rich flavors of the soup perfectly, creating a satisfying meal that takes you back to childhood comfort food.

If you're looking for a lighter option, crusty artisan bread works beautifully too. Just dip a slice into the soup and soak up every bit of that creamy goodness. You might even consider adding a sprinkle of basil or a drizzle of olive oil to elevate the experience.

Whatever you choose, serve with a side salad for a complete, well-rounded meal. For more pairing ideas, check out this article for inspiration!

Time Breakdown for Easy Tomato Soup Recipe

When you're craving a warm bowl of goodness, here’s a simple breakdown of the timing for this easy tomato soup recipe:

Preparation Time

In just 5 minutes, you’ll have everything prepped and ready to go. Chop those onions, mince the garlic, and gather your ingredients!

Cooking Time

Let the magic happen with 25 minutes of cooking. This is where your kitchen will fill with irresistible aromas!

Total Time

From start to finish, you’ll only need 30 minutes to enjoy a delicious homemade soup that’s perfect for any occasion.

Check out more cooking tips and efficient meal prep techniques here to help streamline your cooking process!

Nutritional Facts for Easy Tomato Soup Recipe

Calories per serving

Each serving of our easy tomato soup recipe contains approximately 222 calories. It's a light, yet satisfying dish that works wonderfully for lunch or dinner without weighing you down.

Key nutrients

This creamy soup isn’t just delicious; it also packs a nutrition punch! Each bowl is rich in vitamins A and C, thanks to the tomatoes and basil. Additionally, you'll get a source of calcium from the parmesan, while the heavy cream adds some heartiness. Working professionals like you deserve a meal that not only tastes great but also nourishes the body!

For more on nutritional benefits, check out the USDA FoodData Central for detailed information on various ingredients you can use.

FAQs about Easy Tomato Soup Recipe

How can I make tomato soup less acidic?

If you find your easy tomato soup recipe a bit too tangy, there are several ways to balance the acidity. A common trick is to add a bit of sugar—start with a tablespoon and adjust to your taste. You can also incorporate more heavy cream or even a tablespoon of baking soda. Remember to add these gradually, tasting as you go, to find that perfect balance.

Can I store leftovers, and for how long?

Absolutely! Leftover tomato soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you prefer longer storage, consider freezing your soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it down before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

What's the best way to reheat tomato soup?

Reheating is simple! You can use a microwave, just heat it in short bursts and stir in between, or heat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring to prevent sticking. If you find the soup is too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of chicken stock or water to get it back to your desired consistency.

For more tips on preserving your culinary creations, check out Food Storage Guidelines by the USDA!

Conclusion on Easy Tomato Soup Recipe

In summary, this easy tomato soup recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or meal prep. With its creamy texture and robust flavors, it's a satisfying choice that complements grilled cheese sandwiches beautifully. Give it a try and transform simple ingredients into a delicious bowl of comfort!