Creamy tomato soup is easy to make with canned tomatoes, onion and garlic. A short simmer rounds out the tomatoes, and a splash of cream gives the soup a smooth finish without making it heavy.
Why this recipe works
Cooking the onions and tomato paste first builds flavor before the tomatoes go in. Blending the soup at the end gives it a silky texture; the cream is optional, so you can adjust the richness.
Creamy Tomato Soup with Canned Tomatoes
Creamy tomato soup is easy to make with canned tomatoes, onion and garlic. A short simmer rounds out the tomatoes, and a splash of cream gives the soup a smooth finish without making it heavy.
- Prep
- 10 min
- Cook
- 25 min
- Total
- 35 min
- Yield
- 4 servings
Ingredients
11 itemsInstructions
5 stepsHeat the olive oil or butter in a medium soup pot over medium heat. Add the onion and carrot. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring, until softened.
Add the garlic and tomato paste. Stir for 30 to 60 seconds, just until fragrant.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth. Add the salt, pepper and basil. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and cook uncovered for 15 minutes.
Take the pot off the heat. Carefully blend with an immersion blender until smooth. If using a countertop blender, work in small batches and vent the lid so steam can escape.
Return the soup to low heat and stir in the cream, if using. Warm through without a hard boil. Taste and add more salt or pepper as needed.
A few helpful tips
- Crushed tomatoes give the soup body without a long cook time. Whole canned tomatoes also work after blending.
- If the soup tastes too sharp, simmer it a few minutes longer before adding any sweetener.
- For a dairy-free soup, use olive oil and skip the cream. Blend well for a smooth finish.
Questions about this recipe
Can I use fresh tomatoes?
Yes, but the cooking time and flavor will vary with the season. Canned tomatoes make the result more consistent year-round.
How do I make it thicker?
Simmer the soup uncovered for a few extra minutes. Avoid adding a large amount of flour; blending usually gives enough body.
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