Zesty Tomato Soup Recipe

On chilly afternoons when the rain taps against the window, nothing brings me comfort quite like a warm bowl of homemade soup. My classic Tomato Soup recipe delivers that cozy feeling with rich flavors and a velvety texture that you just cannot get from a can.

I always keep the simple pantry staples needed for this dish on hand so I can whip it up whenever a craving strikes. You will be amazed at how quickly this wholesome meal comes together for a satisfying lunch or light dinner.

Why This Tomato Soup Will Become Your Go-To Recipe

The secret to the incredible texture here is using butter instead of cream to create a luxurious mouthfeel. It keeps the flavor bright and tomato-forward while still feeling incredibly indulgent on your spoon.

I love that this recipe takes just over 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You only need a few basic ingredients to create a depth of flavor that tastes like it simmered all day.

This dish is naturally vegetarian and can easily be made vegan with a simple olive oil swap. It is a versatile crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with everything from salads to crusty bread.

If you want more cozy bowl meals, my Chicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe offers hearty comfort, while the Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe adds a fun spicy kick to your rotation.

Everything You Need for Perfect Tomato Soup

Unsalted butter: This adds richness and smooths out the acidity of the tomatoes without needing heavy cream.
Olive oil: I use this alongside the butter to sauté the aromatics.
Yellow onion: A small amount of chopped onion provides a savory base layer of flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add an essential aromatic punch to the soup.
Canned whole tomatoes: I prefer San Marzano style tomatoes for the best sweet flavor and consistency.
Tomato paste: This concentrated ingredient adds depth and bold color to your Tomato Soup.
Low sodium vegetable broth: This thins the soup to the perfect consistency while letting you control the salt level.
Granulated sugar: A small amount balances the natural acidity of the canned tomatoes.

• Salt and black pepper: These simple seasonings bring all the flavors together.

My Method for Perfect Tomato Soup

1. Melt the butter and olive oil in a Dutch oven or large heavy pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until it is softened and translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
4. Add the undrained canned tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable broth, sugar, salt, and pepper to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.
6. Use a wooden spoon to break up the tomatoes slightly as they cook and soften.
7. Purée the soup until it is completely smooth using an immersion blender directly in the pot.
8. Taste the Tomato Soup and add more salt or pepper if needed before serving hot.

My Best Tips for Perfect Tomato Soup

I highly recommend using San Marzano tomatoes because they have a sweeter flavor and less acidity than standard canned varieties. Using high-quality tomatoes makes a huge difference in the final taste of your Tomato Soup.

If you use a countertop blender instead of an immersion blender, be sure to remove the center cap from the lid to let steam escape. Cover the opening with a clean kitchen towel to prevent hot splashes while you blend until smooth.

You can easily adjust the consistency by adding a splash more broth if you prefer a thinner soup. I sometimes stir in fresh basil leaves right before blending to add a fresh herbal note to the dish.

Perfect Pairings for Tomato Soup

My absolute favorite way to serve this Tomato Soup is with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for dipping. The combination of crunchy, buttery bread and smooth, tangy soup is truly unbeatable comfort food.

You can also top each bowl with homemade croutons, a swirl of pesto, or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra flair. It makes a wonderful light lunch alongside a crisp green salad with vinaigrette.