Name: Easy Tomato Soup Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 28 oz Whole Plum or San Marzano Tomatoes; 4 tbsp salted butter; 3 cloves garlic; 2 cups Progresso™ Chicken Stock; ¼ cup fresh basil; salt; freshly ground black pepper; ⅓ cup heavy cream

This easy tomato soup recipe is a comforting classic that will warm your soul. With a blend of plum tomatoes and fresh basil, it’s a delightful dish perfect for any season. The richness of heavy cream and the aroma of garlic take this soup to another level, making it an instant favorite.

Photos of Easy Tomato Soup Recipe

If you don’t already have san marzano tomatoes or plum tomatoes in your pantry, make sure to pick them up at the supermarket. These tomatoes are essential for achieving the rich and robust flavor typical of this soup. Fresh basil is another ingredient that might not be common in every kitchen but is crucial for the fresh, aromatic finish.

Ingredients For Easy Tomato Soup

Whole plum or san marzano tomatoes: Provides a rich and robust base for the soup.

Salted butter: Adds a creamy and flavorful richness.

Garlic: Infuses a delightful aroma and taste.

Progresso chicken stock: Enhances the savory depth of the soup.

Fresh basil: Adds a fresh, aromatic finish.

Salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.

Freshly ground black pepper: Provides a subtle heat and complexity.

Heavy cream: Adds a luxurious, velvety texture.

One reader, Harlie Staples says:

This easy tomato soup recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the fresh basil adds a wonderful touch. Perfect for a quick, delicious meal.

Harlie Staples

Techniques Required for Making Easy Tomato Soup

How to melt butter: Place the butter in a large pot over medium heat and allow it to melt completely before proceeding to the next step.

How to puree tomatoes: Add canned tomatoes along with their juices to a blender and process until the mixture is smooth and well pureed.

How to saute garlic: Add minced garlic to the pot with melted butter and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

How to simmer: After bringing the mixture to a gentle bubble, reduce the heat to maintain a low, steady simmer for 10 minutes.

How to season: Taste the soup and add salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preference.

How to drizzle cream: Pour a small amount of heavy cream over each serving of soup just before serving.

How to garnish with basil: Sprinkle the remaining fresh basil over each bowl of soup as a garnish before serving.

How To Make Easy Tomato Soup

With just 7 ingredients, you can easily make this tomato soup recipe that’s rich and creamy, that’s definitely worth to serve on the dining table.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

28ozWhole Plum or San Marzano Tomatoes2 cans
4tbspsalted butter
3clovesgarlicminced
2cupsProgresso™ Chicken Stock
¼cupfresh basilchopped
Salt
freshly ground black pepper
⅓cupheavy creamoptional

Instructions

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
Meanwhile add canned tomatoes along with the juices to a blender and process until well pureed.
Add garlic to pot and saute 30 seconds then pour in tomatoes and chicken stock and bring to a gentle bubble.
Reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes.
Stir in half of the basil, season with salt and pepper if desired.
Pour into bowls and drizzle each serving with cream if using then sprinkle with remaining basil. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Calories: 994.50kcal
Fat: 100.70g
Saturated Fat: 62.20g
Trans Fat: 0.47g
Monounsaturated Fat: 28.51g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.98g
Carbohydrates: 17.39g
Fiber: 3.27g
Sugar: 11.97g
Protein: 11.83g
Cholesterol: 359.09mg
Sodium: 1392.24mg
Calcium: 233.05mg
Potassium: 756.05mg
Iron: 1.59mg
Vitamin A: 1222.50µg
Vitamin C: 33.64mg

Crucial Technique for Perfecting Easy Tomato Soup

To enhance the flavor of your tomato soup, roast the garlic cloves in the oven until they are golden brown before adding them to the pot. This will add a deeper, richer flavor to the soup.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using pre-minced garlic instead of peeling and chopping fresh cloves.

Opt for an immersion blender: Blend the tomatoes directly in the pot with an immersion blender to avoid extra dishes.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all your ingredients before starting to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-made chicken stock: Substitute homemade stock with Progresso™ chicken stock to cut down on prep time.

Chop basil in advance: Chop the basil ahead of time and store it in the fridge until needed.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Tomato Soup Recipe

whole plum or san marzano tomatoes - Substitute with canned crushed tomatoes: They provide a similar texture and flavor, making them a convenient alternative.
salted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil adds a rich flavor and is a healthier fat option.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic to maintain the garlic flavor.
progresso™ chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth is a great alternative for a vegetarian version of the soup.
fresh basil - Substitute with dried basil: Use 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh basil to achieve a similar flavor.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a depth of flavor and umami, but use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the soup.
freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat and flavor profile without altering the color of the soup.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk offers a creamy texture and a subtle sweetness, making it a good dairy-free alternative.

Presentation Ideas for Easy Tomato Soup

Use a shallow, wide bowl: This allows the tomato soup to spread out, creating a beautiful canvas for your presentation.
Drizzle the heavy cream artistically: Use a small spoon or a squeeze bottle to create elegant swirls or patterns on the surface of the soup.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves: Place a few whole basil leaves or finely chiffonade them and sprinkle over the soup for a pop of color and freshness.
Add a touch of texture: Consider adding a small piece of crusty bread or a parmesan crisp on the side of the bowl for an added crunch.
Finish with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper: This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a subtle visual contrast to the soup.
Serve with a small side of garlic butter: Offer a small ramekin of garlic butter on the side to complement the soup and elevate the dining experience.
Use a pristine white napkin: Place a neatly folded white napkin under the bowl to frame the soup and add a touch of elegance to the presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Tomato Soup

Large pot: Used to melt the butter and cook the soup, ensuring even heat distribution.
Blender: Purees the canned tomatoes to a smooth consistency.
Garlic press: Minces the garlic cloves quickly and efficiently.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the soup and sautéing the garlic without scratching the pot.
Measuring cups: Measures the chicken stock and heavy cream accurately.
Measuring spoons: Measures the butter and any additional seasoning precisely.
Chef's knife: Chops the fresh basil finely.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping the basil and garlic.
Soup bowls: Used for serving the finished tomato soup.
Ladle: Helps in pouring the soup into bowls without spilling.
Pepper mill: Grinds fresh black pepper for seasoning the soup.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Tomato Soup

Let the tomato soup cool completely before storing or freezing.
Transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag.
If using a container, leave about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To freeze, place the container or bag in the freezer and store for up to 3 months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat the soup gently in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
If the soup appears too thick after freezing and reheating, add a little chicken stock or water to achieve the desired consistency.
Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed before serving the reheated soup.

How To Reheat Leftover Tomato Soup

Stovetop method: pour the leftover tomato soup into a saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the soup is heated evenly without scorching or burning.
Microwave method: transfer the leftover soup into a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave the soup on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful when removing the bowl from the microwave, as it may be hot.
Slow cooker method: if you have a larger quantity of leftover soup, you can reheat it in a slow cooker. Pour the soup into the slow cooker and set it on low heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. This method is convenient if you want to reheat the soup without constantly monitoring it.
Add a splash of chicken stock or water: if the leftover soup has thickened or become too concentrated, you can add a small amount of chicken stock or water to thin it out and improve its consistency. This will also help to distribute the heat more evenly throughout the soup.
Garnish and serve: once the soup is heated through, ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh basil, a drizzle of heavy cream, or any other toppings you prefer. Serve the soup immediately while it's hot, and enjoy your delicious leftover tomato soup!

Interesting Trivia About Tomato Soup

A fun fact about this tomato soup recipe is that using San Marzano tomatoes can significantly enhance the flavor. These tomatoes are known for their sweet taste and low acidity, making them a favorite choice for many chefs when preparing soups and sauces.

Is Making Tomato Soup at Home Cost-Effective?

This tomato soup recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using canned tomatoes and chicken stock keeps the costs low while still delivering a rich, flavorful dish. The butter, garlic, and basil add depth without breaking the bank. The only slightly pricier ingredient is the heavy cream, but it's optional. Overall, this recipe scores an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12 USD.

Is This Tomato Soup Recipe Healthy?

This tomato soup recipe, while comforting and delicious, may not be the healthiest option due to a few key ingredients:

Butter and heavy cream add significant amounts of saturated fat and calories to the dish
Canned tomatoes often contain added sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues
The recipe lacks fiber-rich ingredients, such as vegetables or whole grains, which are essential for a balanced diet

However, with a few simple modifications, this recipe can be transformed into a healthier version without sacrificing flavor:

Replace the butter with a heart-healthy oil, such as olive oil, to reduce saturated fat content
Opt for low-sodium or no-salt-added canned tomatoes to control sodium intake
Incorporate additional vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or onions, to boost fiber and nutrient content
Swap the heavy cream for a lower-fat alternative, such as Greek yogurt or coconut milk, to maintain creaminess while reducing calories and fat
Consider adding whole grains, like quinoa or barley, to the soup to increase fiber and create a more satisfying meal

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a comforting bowl of tomato soup that not only tastes great but also supports your overall health and well-being.

Editor's Opinion on This Easy Tomato Soup Recipe

This tomato soup recipe is a delightful blend of simplicity and rich flavors. The use of San Marzano tomatoes ensures a robust base, while the butter and garlic add depth. Fresh basil introduces a fragrant note, and the heavy cream provides a luscious finish. The balance of ingredients is well thought out, making it both comforting and elegant. Perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to impress with its classic yet refined taste.

Enhance Your Easy Tomato Soup Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Imagine dipping a slice of crispy, golden garlic bread into your warm bowl of tomato soup. The buttery, garlicky goodness complements the rich tomato flavors perfectly, creating a symphony of tastes in every bite.

Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar Salad with crunchy romaine lettuce, tangy Caesar dressing, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy tomato soup. The crisp textures and zesty flavors make for a delightful pairing.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Nothing says comfort food like a Grilled Cheese Sandwich. The gooey, melted cheese and perfectly toasted bread make it an ideal companion for your tomato soup. Each bite is a nostalgic trip to simpler times.

Caprese Salad: For a touch of elegance, serve a Caprese Salad alongside your soup. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil drizzled with balsamic glaze is a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your meal with some Stuffed Mushrooms. These bite-sized delights, filled with a savory mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs, offer a burst of flavor that complements the smooth, rich tomato soup beautifully.

Similar Soup Recipes to Try

Roasted Red Pepper Soup: Dive into the rich and smoky flavors of roasted red peppers blended with garlic, onions, and a touch of cream. This velvety soup is perfect for a cozy night in.

Creamy Carrot Ginger Soup: Experience the vibrant taste of carrots and ginger in this creamy delight. The subtle spice of ginger pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of carrots, making it a comforting bowl of goodness.

Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up with a bowl of silky butternut squash soup. Infused with nutmeg and a hint of maple syrup, this soup is a perfect balance of sweet and savory.

French Onion Soup: Indulge in the classic flavors of French onion soup, with caramelized onions, a splash of white wine, and topped with a crusty baguette and melted Gruyère cheese. A timeless favorite.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Savor the creamy and cheesy goodness of broccoli cheddar soup. This hearty soup combines tender broccoli florets with sharp cheddar cheese, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ideal Main Courses and Desserts to Serve with Tomato Soup

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a creamy pasta dish that combines tender chicken breast with a rich alfredo sauce. The sauce, made from heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and a hint of garlic, coats the fettuccine noodles perfectly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper for an elegant touch. Serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up every last bit of the delicious sauce.

Beef Stroganoff: Experience the hearty flavors of tender beef cooked in a savory mushroom sauce. This Russian-inspired dish features succulent beef strips simmered with onions and mushrooms in a creamy sour cream sauce. Serve over a bed of egg noodles or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. Top with a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley to enhance the flavors.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Chocolate Lava Cake is a decadent treat that will leave your guests in awe. Imagine a rich, molten chocolate center encased in a delicate, fluffy cake. The contrast between the warm, gooey interior and the slightly crisp exterior is simply divine. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the intense chocolate flavor. A sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries can add a touch of elegance to this already stunning dessert.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Lemon Meringue Pie is a classic dessert that combines a tangy lemon filling with a light, fluffy meringue topping. The buttery crust provides a perfect base for the zesty lemon curd, while the meringue adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful, golden-brown finish. This dessert is perfect for those who love a balance of sweet and tart flavors. Garnish with a few lemon zest curls for an extra burst of citrus and a visually appealing presentation.

Why trust this Easy Tomato Soup Recipe:

This easy tomato soup recipe is a must-try because it uses high-quality san marzano tomatoes for an authentic, rich flavor. The addition of fresh basil and heavy cream creates a creamy, aromatic finish that elevates the dish. With simple ingredients like garlic and chicken stock, it’s both flavorful and easy to prepare. The recipe is straightforward, ensuring consistent results every time. Trust this recipe for a comforting, homemade soup that’s perfect for any occasion.

Share your thoughts on this Easy Tomato Soup Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

How can I make this tomato soup vegetarian?

You can easily make this tomato soup vegetarian by using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. The flavor will still be delicious and rich.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?

Yes, you can use dried basil if you don't have fresh basil on hand. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about 1 tablespoon of dried basil in place of the ¼ cup of fresh basil.

Can I use an immersion blender instead of a regular blender?

Absolutely! An immersion blender works great for this recipe. You can blend the tomatoes directly in the pot after adding them, which saves you from transferring hot liquids.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this soup dairy-free by using a plant-based butter and omitting the heavy cream or replacing it with a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or almond milk.