Smooth Tomato Soup is a classic comfort food that’s simple, creamy, and full of rich tomato flavor. It’s just the kind of soup that warms you up from the inside out, with its velvety texture and gentle hint of herbs. The smoothness makes it easy to enjoy any time, whether as a light lunch or a cozy dinner starter.
I love making this soup when I want something soothing and easy. A little tip I have is to use ripe tomatoes or a good quality canned tomato because it really makes all the difference in taste. Blending the soup until it’s perfectly smooth feels like a little moment of homemade magic that makes me smile every time.
My favorite way to enjoy this soup is with a grilled cheese sandwich on the side—it’s such a classic pairing that always hits the spot. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving something simple, this smooth tomato soup is always there to bring comfort and a touch of warmth to your day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes give the best flavor. When not in season, canned whole peeled tomatoes work great too. They offer rich taste and save time.
Onions and Garlic: These build the flavor base. Yellow or white onions are your best bet. If you prefer, garlic powder can substitute fresh garlic when needed.
Broth: Vegetable broth is great for a lighter soup and makes it vegetarian-friendly. Chicken broth adds depth if you like a richer taste.
Cream or Milk: Adding cream or whole milk gives a silky texture but it’s optional. Use coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative that’s just as creamy.
Herbs: Thyme adds an earthy note, but basil or oregano can be swapped in depending on what you like or have on hand. Fresh herbs add a nice touch at the end.
How Do You Get That Perfectly Smooth Texture?
Blending is the key step. Here’s how I do it:
- Use an immersion blender right in the pot for easy cleanup and control.
- Blend until no chunks remain and the soup feels silky to the touch.
- If using a regular blender, blend in batches to avoid spills, and be cautious with hot liquids.
- For extra smoothness, you can strain the soup through a fine mesh sieve after blending.
- Reheat gently after blending—avoid boiling to keep cream from curdling if added.
Taking your time blending makes the soup feel comforting and luxurious, exactly what this classic calls for.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – perfect for cooking all your ingredients evenly and simmering the soup gently.
- Immersion blender – makes blending the soup smooth right in the pot quick and easy without extra mess.
- Knife and cutting board – essential for chopping onions, garlic, and tomatoes safely and efficiently.
- Ladle – makes serving your hot soup neat and simple.
- Wooden spoon – great for stirring the soup without scratching your pot.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add roasted red peppers for a smoky twist that deepens the flavor beautifully.
- Stir in a pinch of smoked paprika or red chili flakes for a little warming heat.
- Mix in cooked lentils or white beans to boost protein and make it more filling.
- Add fresh basil or a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end to brighten up the taste.
How to Make Smooth Tomato Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped (or 2 cans whole peeled tomatoes)
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or a few sprigs fresh thyme
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk (optional for creaminess)
- Fresh basil or rosemary sprigs for garnish
- Bread, toasted or grilled, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 25 minutes to cook. Blending and final mixing add about 5 minutes more. In total, plan for around 40 minutes from start to finish to enjoy this smooth, warming tomato soup.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This builds the soup’s flavorful base.
2. Cook the Tomatoes and Broth:
Add the chopped fresh tomatoes or canned tomatoes (with their juice) into the pot and stir everything together. Pour in the broth and add the thyme. Let the soup gently simmer for 20-25 minutes until the tomatoes are very soft and fully cooked down.
3. Blend and Season the Soup:
If you used fresh thyme sprigs, remove them now. Use an immersion blender right in the pot to puree the soup until it’s completely smooth. Alternatively, blend the soup in batches in a regular blender—just be cautious with hot liquid. Return the pureed soup to the pot, stir in sugar if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add Cream and Serve:
To make the soup creamy, stir in the heavy cream or whole milk now and gently warm the soup without letting it boil to avoid curdling. Finally, ladle the smooth tomato soup into bowls, garnish with fresh herb sprigs and a sprinkle of freshly ground pepper. Serve hot paired with toasted or grilled bread for a perfect cozy meal.
Can I Use Canned Tomatoes Instead of Fresh?
Yes, canned whole peeled tomatoes are a great substitute when fresh tomatoes aren’t in season. They provide rich flavor and save prep time. Just include the juice for more depth in the soup.
How Do I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Simply skip the cream or milk or swap in coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Add it gently near the end for that creamy texture without dairy.
Can I Make Smooth Tomato Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The soup tastes great refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally, and add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.
How Should I Store Leftover Soup?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
