Name: The Best Tomato Soup Recipe You'll Absolutely Love
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 3 pounds fresh tomatoes (use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and vibrant color); 0.5 onion diced onion (adds a lovely sweetness and depth to the soup); 5 cloves garlic (minced or chopped for savory aroma); 2 Tablespoons olive oil (helps to roast the vegetables beautifully); 0.5 teaspoon fine sea salt (enhances sweetness of the tomatoes); 0.25 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground adds warmth and complexity); 0.25 cup fresh basil (elevates the soup with a refreshing touch); 2 Tablespoons salted butter (adds richness and velvety texture); 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour (helps thicken the soup); 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar (balances acidity of tomatoes); 1 quart vegetable broth (forms the flavorful base); 0.25 to 0.5 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)

There’s a comforting ritual that unfolds in my kitchen as I prepare the best tomato soup. The moment I slice into ripe, juicy tomatoes and release the vibrant scent of summer, I can feel the stress of the day melt away. This simple act can transport me to sun-drenched fields, where the tomatoes were handpicked and brought straight to the table.

I used to think homemade tomato soup was a laborious task, something only seasoned chefs could whip up with ease. But after a delightful kitchen adventure one chilly afternoon, I discovered just how quick and rewarding it can be. With a handful of fresh ingredients and a dash of love, this recipe transforms into a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy nights and unexpected gatherings alike.

Ready to impress your family or simply indulge in a bowl of warmth? Let’s dive into this effortlessly delicious recipe that will redefine your idea of tomato soup and leave fast food in the dust!

Why is Best Tomato Soup a Must-Try?

Comforting Experience: Each spoonful is like a warm hug, thanks to the rich, robust flavors of roasted tomatoes and fresh basil.
Easy to Make: With just 50 minutes from start to finish, you’ll savor homemade goodness without sacrificing your time.
Healthier Choice: Ditch fast food and nourish your body with wholesome ingredients packed into each savory bowl.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings; everyone will be asking for seconds!
Customizable Options: Feel free to adjust the creaminess to your liking, with or without heavy cream. If you enjoy this recipe, check out my Creamy Mushroom Soup for another delicious option to satisfy your cravings!

Best Tomato Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base
• 3 pounds tomatoes – use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and vibrant color.
• ½ onion – diced onion adds a lovely sweetness and depth to the soup.
• 5 cloves garlic – minced or chopped garlic infuses the soup with a savory aroma.
• 2 Tablespoons olive oil – this helps to roast the vegetables beautifully, enhancing their flavors.
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt – enhances the sweetness of the tomatoes and balances the flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground pepper adds warmth and complexity.
• ¼ cup fresh basil – this bright herb elevates the soup with a refreshing touch.

For the Creamy Enrichment
• 2 Tablespoons salted butter – adds richness and a velvety texture to the soup.
• 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour – helps thicken the soup for a satisfying consistency.
• 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar – balances the acidity of the tomatoes for a more rounded flavor.
• 1 quart vegetable broth – this forms the flavorful base and adds depth to the soup.
• ¼ to ½ cup heavy cream (optional) – for an extra creamy tomato soup, add cream to taste!

Enjoy crafting the best tomato soup that will awaken your taste buds and warm your heart!

How to Make Best Tomato Soup

Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F. Lightly grease a large baking sheet to prepare for roasting the fresh vegetables. This step is key to elevating the flavors!
Combine tomatoes, onion, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Give everything a gentle toss until well coated, allowing the beautiful colors to meld together beautifully.
Spread the tomato mixture onto your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them for 15 minutes, letting the heat bring out their natural sweetness.
Stir the mixture and roast for another 15 minutes. Broil for the last 2-3 minutes until some tomatoes are lightly charred—this adds a delicious depth of flavor.
Blend the roasted tomato mixture in a high-powered blender with fresh basil. Pulse on high speed until smooth and silky, taking about 1 minute to achieve that dreamy texture.
Melt butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. As it starts to bubble, prepare for the next step in crafting a creamy, indulgent base.
Whisk in flour to the melted butter and cook for about 30 to 60 seconds. You want it bubbly and lightly browned, forming the roux for your soup.
Add vegetable broth and granulated sugar to the roux. Whisk until smooth, creating a luxurious base that complements the roasted tomatoes perfectly.
Incorporate the blended tomato mixture into the pot and whisk until well combined. For extra creaminess, feel free to add ¼ to ½ cup heavy cream at this stage!
Cook over medium-low heat for 15 minutes, or until the soup thickens slightly. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking—you deserve it!
Serve warm in bowls, enjoying the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen. Each spoonful is sure to warm your heart and soul!

Optional: Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra pop of flavor and color!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Best Tomato Soup?

Creating an unforgettable meal is easy when you pair this comforting soup with delightful sides and drinks.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic combination! Crisp, buttery bread with gooey cheese complements the soup’s texture and elevates the experience.
Crusty Baguette: Freshly baked bread is perfect for dipping. Its airy interior absorbs the rich flavors of the soup beautifully.
Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with tangy vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the richness of the soup. Consider using arugula or baby spinach.
Savory Garlic Bread: Golden, buttered garlic bread is irresistible. The crispy edges and fragrant garlic perfectly contrast with the smooth soup.
Roasted Vegetables: Sweet, caramelized veggies provide an earthy flavor that pairs well with the tomato’s acidity, enhancing each bite.
Wine Pairing: A light-bodied red, like Pinot Noir, complements the robustness of the soup without overpowering it, adding another layer of flavor.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note. The cookies’ chewy texture and rich chocolate make for a delightful contrast to the savory soup.
Herbed Focaccia: Soft and fluffy focaccia, infused with fresh herbs, makes an excellent side for soaking up every last drop of this best tomato soup!

Best Tomato Soup Variations

Feel free to play around with this recipe and make it truly your own! Embrace the creative flavors you love.

Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative for a rich, creamy texture.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño while cooking for a delightful heat boost. You can adjust the spice level based on your preferences!
Herb Infusion: Swap fresh basil with oregano or thyme to give the soup an aromatic twist. Each herb brings its unique character to the table!
Roasted Veggies: Toss in roasted red peppers or carrots for added sweetness and depth—an easy way to boost nutrition and flavor.
Pasta Addition: Stir in small pasta like orzo or ditalini during the last minutes of cooking for a heartier soup. Comfort food at its best!
Nutty Flavor: Blend in a couple of tablespoons of tahini or nut butter for a unique, creamy texture and a subtle nutty flavor. This will surprise and delight your palate!
Crispy Toppings: Top with homemade croutons or crispy parmesan chips for added texture and a lovely crunch. A little extra bite takes this soup to the next level!
Garnish Variations: Finish with a drizzle of balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a gourmet touch that elevates your bowl. This could become your signature serving style!

How to Store and Freeze Best Tomato Soup

Fridge: Store your best tomato soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top for expansion when freezing.

Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Gently warm in a pot over medium heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

Portioning: Consider freezing in single-serving portions for quick, easy meals. Perfect for busy days when you crave the comforting taste of homemade soup!

Make Ahead Options

These comforting bowls of best tomato soup are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop and combine the tomatoes, onion, and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating them in an airtight container to retain freshness. Alternatively, you can roast the vegetables and blend them into a smooth mixture up to 3 days ahead; just store it in the refrigerator, ensuring it’s well-covered to maintain flavor. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the mixture in a pot, whisk in the roux, and cook for about 15 minutes until warmed through—resulting in the same delicious flavor, but without all the fuss on busy weeknights!

Expert Tips for Best Tomato Soup

Choose Ripe Tomatoes: Opt for fresh, ripe tomatoes for maximum flavor and sweetness in your soup; overripe ones can lead to a mushy texture.
Don’t Skip the Roasting: Roasting intensifies the flavors; be sure to broil for a few minutes to get that lovely char on your tomatoes, enhancing the overall taste.
Adjust to Taste: Always taste your soup before serving; add more salt or sugar to balance acidity, creating your personal version of the best tomato soup.
Smooth Texture: Blend until smooth! If you prefer a chunkier soup, pulse just a few times, but remember, smooth equals creamy and comforting.
Creamy Variation: For extra richness, add heavy cream to your soup gradually; start with ¼ cup and increase based on your preference.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days—simply reheat and enjoy this delightful dish again!

Best Tomato Soup Recipe FAQs

What tomatoes are best for homemade tomato soup?
Absolutely! I recommend using fresh, ripe tomatoes as they provide the best flavor and vibrant color for your soup. Look for tomatoes that are firm but slightly yielding, indicating ripeness. Avoid those with dark spots or wrinkles, as they may not have the best taste.

How should I store leftover best tomato soup?
To keep your soup fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through—easy-peasy!

Can I freeze best tomato soup for later use?
Yes! Freezing is a fantastic way to preserve your delicious homemade soup. Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion, and it can last for up to 3 months. When you’re craving a warm bowl, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.

What should I do if my tomato soup is too acidic?
Very! If your soup tastes a bit too acidic, that can happen sometimes. You can balance the acidity by adding a little sugar, about a teaspoon at a time, until it tastes just right. Alternatively, you can add a splash of cream at the end to soften that tangy flavor and enrich the overall taste.

Are there any dietary considerations for this soup?
Absolutely! This tomato soup is generally gluten-free if you use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. If you’re avoiding dairy, simply omit the butter and cream or substitute them with plant-based alternatives. And remember to always check for allergies with ingredients like broth or additives.

Can I add other vegetables or spices to my best tomato soup?
Definitely! Feel free to personalize your soup; adding vegetables like carrots or celery during the roasting stage can amplify its flavor. You can also experiment with spices such as oregano or thyme for a unique twist. Just remember to taste as you go to find your perfect blend!