Smooth Tomato Soup is a classic that never fails to warm you up on a chilly day. It’s made from ripe tomatoes blended until silky, with just the right touch of herbs and a hint of cream for a mellow finish. The texture is velvety smooth, making every spoonful so comforting and easy to enjoy.
I love making this soup when I want something simple but satisfying. One of my favorite little tricks is adding a splash of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh basil on top just before serving—it adds a fresh flavor that makes the soup feel extra special. It’s also great for leftovers because the flavors only get better after sitting for a few hours.
This soup pairs perfectly with a grilled cheese sandwich or some crusty bread for dipping. I often find myself keeping a pot simmering on the stove because it’s so easy to warm up whenever I need something cozy and filling. It reminds me of homey lunches and those moments when you need a little comfort in a bowl.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Fresh ripe tomatoes give the best natural sweetness, but canned whole peeled tomatoes are a great shortcut without sacrificing flavor. If you want less acidity, choose fire-roasted canned tomatoes for a smoky twist.
Onion & Garlic: These build the base flavor. I prefer yellow onions for their gentle sweetness. If you’re in a hurry, shallots can work but use less as they’re stronger.
Broth: Vegetable broth keeps it light and vegetarian, while chicken broth adds more depth. Use low-sodium to control salt levels better.
Herbs: Fresh basil is my go-to for a bright, fresh lift at the end. Dried basil works fine too—just add it earlier in cooking to release flavor.
Cream: Heavy cream or crème fraîche adds richness and smoothness. For dairy-free, coconut cream is a tasty alternative but will add a slight coconut note.
How Do I Achieve a Silky Smooth Texture in Tomato Soup?
Smoothing out tomato soup means pureeing it well and then straining if needed. Here’s what I do:
- Use an immersion blender right in the pot to control the texture easily.
- If you don’t have an immersion blender, blend in batches with a countertop blender but be careful with hot liquids—cool it slightly and vent the lid to avoid splatters.
- For ultra-smooth soup, strain the pureed soup through a fine mesh sieve to remove any skins or seeds that remain.
- Finish by stirring cream in gently off the heat to keep the texture rich and smooth without curdling.
Taking your time to blend and strain helps make the soup silky and inviting, just like the picture. Add croutons on top to keep a nice crunch contrast.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large saucepan or soup pot – perfect for sautéing onions and simmering soup evenly.
- Immersion blender – makes pureeing the soup easy right in the pot without extra dishes.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – helps chop tomatoes, onions, and herbs cleanly and safely.
- Wooden spoon – great for stirring the soup and scraping the pot without damaging it.
- Fine mesh strainer (optional) – use this if you want an extra smooth texture by removing skins and seeds.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add roasted red peppers for a smoky sweetness that pairs well with the tomato base.
- Stir in some cooked shredded chicken or crispy bacon bits for a heartier soup.
- Mix in fresh or frozen basil and a pinch of chili flakes to add a spicy, herby kick.
- Swap cream for coconut milk for a dairy-free option with a subtle tropical twist.
How to Make Smooth Tomato Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 800 g (28 oz) canned whole peeled tomatoes or fresh ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 tsp dried basil or 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or crème fraîche, plus extra for garnish
- Croutons, for garnish
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil), chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This smooth tomato soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare, 25 minutes to simmer, and a few extra minutes to blend and finish. In total, you’re looking at roughly 40 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a simple, comforting meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they become soft and translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, making sure it doesn’t brown.
2. Add Tomatoes and Broth:
Pour in the chopped tomatoes (with juices) and the broth. Stir everything together well. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. This helps the flavors mix and the tomatoes soften perfectly.
3. Blend the Soup Smooth:
Carefully use an immersion blender to puree the soup right in the pot until it’s silky smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, work in batches in a regular blender—but be cautious with hot soup and vent the lid to avoid splattering.
4. Season and Add Cream:
Stir in the sugar (if you want a touch of sweetness), salt, pepper, and basil. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to soak in the seasoning. Remove from the heat, then slowly stir in the cream to give the soup a rich, velvety texture.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls. Add a small drizzle of cream, a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper, chopped fresh herbs, and a handful of crunchy croutons on top for a delicious finish. Enjoy your smooth tomato soup warm with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for dipping.
Can I Use Frozen Tomatoes for This Soup?
Yes! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before cooking to avoid a watery soup. Frozen tomatoes work well when fresh ones aren’t in season.
How Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. This will keep the soup creamy while catering to dairy-free diets.
Can I Prepare Smooth Tomato Soup in Advance?
Absolutely! Make the soup up to two days ahead, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat gently on the stove before serving. Add fresh cream and garnishes right before serving for the best flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Soup?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally for even warming. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
