Smooth Tomato Soup is a classic comfort food that brings warmth with every spoonful. It’s rich, velvety, and full of fresh tomato flavor, gently seasoned to let the natural sweetness shine. The silky texture makes it feel like a cozy hug on a chilly day.
I love to make this soup when I’m craving something simple yet satisfying. There’s something so soothing about how the tomatoes blend into a smooth base that’s not too thick or too thin, just perfect for sipping slowly. I usually add a pinch of herbs for a little extra aroma, and it always feels like a little moment of calm in the kitchen.
My favorite way to serve smooth tomato soup is with a grilled cheese sandwich on the side. The crispy, cheesy bread pairs beautifully with the creamy soup, and together they make a perfect, homey meal. It’s the kind of dish that everyone seems to enjoy, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a lazy weekend lunch.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Fresh ripe tomatoes give the best flavor, but canned whole peeled tomatoes work great too. If you prefer a sweeter soup, try Roma tomatoes—they are less watery and more flavorful.
Onion & Garlic: These build a tasty base. Yellow onions are sweet and cook down beautifully. Garlic adds depth—feel free to adjust to your taste or use garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
Broth: Vegetable broth keeps it light and vegan; chicken broth adds richness. Water can be a last resort, but broth enhances the soup’s flavor most.
Heavy Cream: This is optional but makes the soup silky and smooth. For a dairy-free option, try coconut milk or cashew cream.
How Do You Achieve That Perfectly Smooth and Velvety Texture?
The secret to smooth tomato soup is blending it well and cooking the tomatoes long enough. Here’s how I do it:
- After the tomatoes and broth simmer and soften, remove the pot from heat.
- Use an immersion blender directly in the pot for a quick, mess-free puree. If you don’t have one, blend in batches using a regular blender—just be careful with hot liquids.
- Blend until completely smooth. If it’s too thick, add a bit more broth or cream until it’s your desired consistency.
- Return to low heat to warm through and adjust seasoning before serving.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – perfect for cooking the soup evenly and giving enough space to stir without spilling.
- Sharp knife – makes chopping tomatoes, onions, and garlic quick and easy.
- Cutting board – protects your counters and keeps ingredients organized.
- Immersion blender or regular blender – key to getting that smooth, creamy texture in your soup.
- Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula – great for stirring and scraping the pot gently.
- Ladle – helps you serve the soup neatly into bowls.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try adding roasted red peppers for a smoky twist that pairs beautifully with tomatoes.
- Stir in fresh basil or thyme at the end to boost the soup’s herbal aroma and freshness.
- Mix in a bit of grated cheddar or Parmesan cheese for extra richness and a cheesy flavor.
- Add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika for a mild smoky heat you’ll enjoy on cooler days.
How to Make Smooth Tomato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds (about 900g) ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cans of whole peeled tomatoes)
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional for creaminess)
- Fresh or dried herbs for garnish (basil, thyme, or parsley)
- Croutons or toasted bread for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare your ingredients and sauté the onion and garlic, plus 20-30 minutes to simmer and blend the soup, totaling around 35-40 minutes. Adding the cream and reheating just take a few minutes more.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
2. Cook the Tomatoes
Add the chopped tomatoes with their juices (or canned tomatoes) to the pot. Stir to combine. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and tomatoes to soften fully.
3. Blend the Soup and Finish
Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, carefully puree the soup until smooth, or transfer it in batches to a regular blender. Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half if you like a creamy texture. Season with salt, pepper, and sugar (if using) to your taste. Warm gently if needed before serving.
4. Serve
Ladle the silky smooth tomato soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh or dried herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor and color. Serve alongside croutons or toasted bread for a cozy, delicious meal.
Can I Use Canned Tomatoes Instead of Fresh?
Yes, canned whole peeled tomatoes work perfectly if fresh tomatoes aren’t in season. Just drain a little of the juice if you want a thicker soup, or use the juice for more liquid.
How Should I Store Leftover Tomato Soup?
Cool the soup completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Make This Soup Vegan or Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Just skip the heavy cream or swap it for a plant-based milk like coconut milk or almond milk for creaminess without dairy.
What Can I Serve With Smooth Tomato Soup?
Grilled cheese sandwiches, croutons, or crusty toasted bread are classics. You can also add a side salad or roasted vegetables for a fuller meal.
