This creamy tomato soup recipe is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Made with San Marzano crushed tomatoes, fresh basil, and a rich blend of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, this homemade soup delivers a velvety texture and a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a chilly day or looking for a simple yet satisfying dish, this easy tomato soup recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Serve with grilled cheese or a crunchy baguette for the ultimate pairing. Quick, delicious, and perfect for any time of year.

Ingredients

4 Tbsp unsalted butter
2 yellow onions (about 3 cups, finely chopped)
3 garlic cloves (about 1 Tbsp, minced)
56 oz crushed tomatoes (two 28-oz cans), preferably San Marzano, with their juice
2 cups chicken stock
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped, plus extra for garnish
1 Tbsp sugar (optional, to taste)
½ tsp black pepper (or to taste)
½ cup heavy whipping cream (adjust for desired creaminess)
⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish

Instructions

Heat a large nonreactive pot or enameled Dutch oven over medium heat. Add butter and chopped onions. Sauté for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and golden.
Add minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes with their juice, chicken stock, chopped basil, sugar (if desired), and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Partially cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes.
For a chunky texture, leave the soup as is. If you prefer a smooth, creamy soup, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot over medium heat.
Stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and bring the soup to a simmer again. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Remove from heat and ladle the soup into warm bowls. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped basil.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Tomato Soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, velvety, and packed with flavor. The sweet, tangy crushed tomatoes are balanced by the creamy richness of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, while the fresh basil adds a touch of brightness. Perfectly smooth, yet with enough texture to satisfy, this soup is a classic that everyone will love. It’s also quick and easy to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals.

Tips

If you don’t have an immersion blender, a regular blender will work, but make sure to blend the soup in batches to avoid splattering hot liquid.
If you prefer an extra creamy soup, you can increase the amount of heavy cream or add a little more Parmesan cheese.
Keep the soup warm while serving by placing the bowls in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes before ladling the soup into them.
For a richer flavor, try roasting the tomatoes beforehand before adding them to the soup.

Variations and Substitutions

Dairy-Free: To make this soup dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and omit the Parmesan cheese.
Spicy Tomato Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a bit of heat.
Vegan: Use vegetable stock in place of chicken stock, and substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
Add Veggies: For a heartier soup, blend in some roasted carrots or bell peppers, or add spinach at the end of cooking for extra nutrients.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made in advance. Let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove.

How do I make this soup thicker?
To make the soup thicker, simply let it simmer uncovered for a little longer to allow the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can add a small amount of cornstarch or flour slurry to thicken it.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a warm, toasted grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comforting meal.
Pair with a side of crunchy croutons, fresh baguette slices, or a light salad for a more filling meal.
For a touch of extra flavor, drizzle with a bit of extra virgin olive oil or a few crumbles of crispy bacon on top.

This Creamy Tomato Soup is the perfect combination of savory and smooth—simple yet satisfying for any occasion!