Smooth Tomato Soup is a classic favorite that’s simple, comforting, and packed with the fresh, bright taste of tomatoes. It’s creamy and velvety without being heavy, making it perfect for any day when you want something warm and easy to enjoy. The smooth texture and rich tomato flavor stand out, making every spoonful feel just right.
I love making this soup when I want a quick meal that feels homemade and cozy. Sometimes I like to add a little sprinkle of fresh basil or a dash of black pepper just before serving — it really brings out the flavors. I find that blending the soup well is key to getting that perfect, luscious texture that keeps everyone asking for seconds.
This soup is fantastic on its own or paired with a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic combo that always hits the spot. If you want to keep things light, a simple side salad works beautifully too. For me, Smooth Tomato Soup is the kind of recipe you can rely on to warm you up on chilly evenings and fill your kitchen with that wonderful, inviting aroma.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Fresh ripe tomatoes give the best flavor, but canned whole peeled tomatoes are a great substitute when fresh ones aren’t available. They add a nice depth and richness.
Onion and Garlic: These are classic aromatics that build the soup’s base flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can be used, but fresh always tastes best.
Carrot: Adds natural sweetness and smoothness to the soup. If you want, you can skip it or use a small potato to add creaminess.
Broth: Vegetable broth keeps it lighter and vegetarian, while chicken broth offers a savory richness. Choose whichever fits your needs.
Cream or Milk: This is optional but gives a lovely silky texture. For dairy-free, use coconut milk or almond milk, though it will change the flavor slightly.
How Can I Make the Tomato Soup Really Smooth Without Losing Flavor?
The key to a perfectly smooth tomato soup is pureeing after the veggies are fully cooked and tender. Use these tips:
- Let the soup cool a bit before blending to avoid splatters.
- An immersion blender is easiest and safer right in the pot.
- If using a countertop blender, work in small batches and hold down the lid tightly.
- Blend until completely smooth, scraping down sides as needed.
- After blending, return soup to pot and gently reheat, adding cream or milk if you want extra creaminess.
This method keeps the rich tomato flavor while giving you that lovely, velvety texture that makes the soup so comforting.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – perfect for cooking the soup ingredients evenly without crowding.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring without scratching your pot.
- Immersion blender – makes pureeing the soup quick and easy right in the pot.
- Countertop blender (optional) – ideal if you don’t have an immersion blender; just blend in batches carefully.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep the ingredient amounts just right.
- Ladle – helpful for serving the soup smoothly into bowls.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add roasted red peppers for a smoky twist that deepens the soup’s flavor.
- Stir in fresh basil or thyme just before serving to brighten the taste.
- Mix in cooked, crispy bacon bits for a salty punch and nice texture contrast.
- Add a dash of cayenne or smoked paprika if you like a gentle spicy kick.
How to Make Smooth Tomato Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 carrot, peeled and diced
- 4 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cans of whole peeled tomatoes)
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil or 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or full-fat milk (optional for creaminess)
- Croutons, for garnish
- Fresh or dried herbs for garnish (such as parsley or basil)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 30 minutes to cook, totaling around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy soup perfect for a cozy meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and diced carrot, cooking for another 3 to 4 minutes until the carrot softens a bit.
2. Add Tomatoes and Tomato Paste:
Stir in the chopped tomatoes along with their juices and the tomato paste. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the tomatoes can break down and release their flavors.
3. Simmer with Broth and Seasonings:
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Add sugar (if using), salt, pepper, and the basil. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the vegetables to get tender.
4. Blend the Soup Smooth:
Remove the pot from heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully blend the soup in batches using a countertop blender, then return it to the pot.
5. Add Cream and Final Seasonings:
Stir in the heavy cream or milk if you want a creamier texture. Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Warm gently over low heat if necessary, but avoid boiling once the cream is added.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the smooth tomato soup into bowls. Garnish with croutons, a sprinkle of fresh or dried herbs, and Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve hot, perhaps with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal.
Can I Use Canned Tomatoes Instead of Fresh?
Yes, canned whole peeled tomatoes work wonderfully and save time. Just use about two 14-ounce cans to replace the fresh tomatoes, including their juices for rich flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Tomato Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Skip the cream or milk, or substitute with coconut milk or almond milk for a creamy texture without dairy. Just be aware the flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
How Can I Make the Soup Spicier?
Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce while simmering. Adjust gradually to suit your heat preference without overpowering the tomato flavor.
