Homemade tomato soup

Homemade tomato soup is a warm, comforting dish that’s simple to make and perfect for chilly nights. Its bright, natural flavor works for busy evenings, family dinners, or quiet nights when you want something cozy without fuss. I usually start this recipe when I want a soothing, satisfying meal with minimal effort. Using fresh tomatoes and a few pantry staples, you can create a silky, flavorful soup that feels indulgent yet light. It’s approachable for everyday cooking and fits perfectly into real-life routines, giving a comforting meal that’s easy to serve and even easier to enjoy.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe is flavorful, easy to prepare, and flexible. The natural sweetness of fresh tomatoes shines through while the seasoning enhances without overpowering. It’s weeknight-friendly, forgiving for beginners, and leftovers reheat beautifully, making it freezer-friendly for busy days. Ingredients are simple and budget-conscious, so you can enjoy a wholesome, comforting soup without extra effort. Homemade tomato soup works for solo meals, family dinners, or meal prep, and the texture can be adjusted from silky smooth to slightly chunky. Cozy, versatile, and naturally satisfying, it’s a recipe you’ll return to whenever you want a warm, simple, crowd-pleasing dish.

Ingredients

Tip: Use ripe, firm tomatoes for the best flavor and natural sweetness.

6 medium ripe tomatoes, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup water
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp sugar (optional)
½ tsp dried basil or 1 tsp fresh basil
½ cup milk or cream
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

all ingredients for homemade tomato soup arranged

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation
Chop the tomatoes and onion, and mince the garlic. Measure the broth, water, and seasonings. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smooth and easy.

Step 2: Main Cooking Process
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until soft and fragrant. Add tomatoes and cook for 5–7 minutes until they begin to break down and release juices.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Pour in broth and water. Season with salt, pepper, sugar, and basil. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15 minutes until tomatoes are very soft and flavors have melded together.

Step 4: Finishing & Final Simmer
Blend the soup with an immersion blender until smooth. Stir in milk or cream and warm gently. Taste and adjust seasoning. Sprinkle with parsley before serving hot and comforting.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

You can prep the tomatoes and onion ahead to save time. The soup reheats easily on the stove or microwave, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers. It’s forgiving, quick to assemble, and doesn’t require constant attention, giving you a cozy, ready-to-eat meal when schedules are tight.

Tips & Tricks

Roast tomatoes for a richer flavor. Skipping this step still works, but roasting adds a caramelized depth and natural sweetness.
Avoid overcooking onions. They should be soft and translucent, which keeps the flavor balanced and avoids bitterness.
Blend carefully in batches if needed. This prevents splattering and ensures a smooth, even texture.
Adjust thickness gradually. Add extra broth for thinner soup or simmer longer to thicken naturally without diluting the flavor.

Variations

Meaty Version
Add cooked chicken or turkey pieces after blending for a heartier, protein-rich soup. This keeps the creamy tomato base while making it more filling for larger appetites.

Vegetarian Option
Use vegetable broth and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted bell peppers for extra flavor and depth. The soup remains light, creamy, and satisfying.

Ingredient Swap
Swap milk or cream with coconut milk for a slightly sweet, smooth texture. It creates a gentle twist without changing the comforting tomato flavor.

Flavor or Herb Boost
Add fresh thyme, oregano, or a pinch of smoked paprika at the end. These small touches enhance aroma and depth while keeping the classic tomato taste intact.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Bowl
Serve hot with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of parsley. Pair with crusty bread for a cozy, simple meal.
With Protein
Top with shredded chicken, crispy bacon, or roasted chickpeas for extra texture and heartiness.
Light Lunch Plate
Serve with a fresh green salad or a slice of toasted sourdough for a balanced, satisfying lunch or dinner.
Comfort Night Setup
Offer soup in wide bowls with bread for dipping. Keep toppings like herbs or cheese optional for easy family-style serving.

Storage Instructions

Fridge Storage
Store cooled soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Flavors continue to meld, making leftovers even tastier.
Reheating
Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or milk if it has thickened.
Freezing
Freeze in portions without milk or cream. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly, then stir in milk or cream before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips
Chop vegetables and sauté onions ahead. Store separately and combine with tomatoes and broth when ready to cook, saving active cooking time.

Recipe Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Rest Time: Not required
Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

Each serving contains 150–200 calories. Protein ranges from 3–5 grams per serving. Key nutrients include vitamin C and antioxidants from tomatoes. Values are estimates and vary based on portion size and specific ingredients.

FAQs

Yes, prepare and store in the fridge; reheat gently before serving.

Not blending thoroughly, leaving chunks or uneven texture.

Yes, milk or coconut milk works well for a creamy finish.

Simmer longer or add a bit more tomato for thicker consistency.

Up to 3 days refrigerated or frozen for 1–2 months.

Conclusion

This homemade tomato soup is simple, creamy, and naturally comforting, ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or cozy evenings. You can customize herbs, cream, or texture to suit your taste. It reheats beautifully and pairs perfectly with bread or salad. Each bowl warms and satisfies, making it a reliable, everyday recipe to keep on hand for simple, comforting meals.