How to Make Tomato Soup

Tomato soup is the ultimate comfort food—simple, warm, and endlessly satisfying. This classic recipe blends ripe tomatoes, buttery onions, and just the right balance of seasoning to create a smooth, flavorful bowl that’s perfect for lunch or light dinner. Whether you’re using fresh tomatoes or canned, this homemade version delivers a velvety texture without cream, and comes together with minimal effort. Serve it with a grilled cheese sandwich, crusty bread, or simply enjoy it as-is. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to store-bought.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

this recipe

• Fast & easy – Ready in under 1 hour with only basic prep.
• Creamy without cream – Butter and onions provide richness.
• Pantry-friendly – Use canned or fresh tomatoes.
• Customizable – Add herbs, spice, or a splash of cream.
• Perfect for meal prep – Stores well and reheats beautifully.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp butter (or olive oil for vegan)
• 1 medium yellow onion, peeled and halved
• 2 cans (28 oz each) whole peeled tomatoes, or 10–12 ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth (optional, for depth)
• 1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Start the base
   Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the halved onion and the tomatoes with juices (if canned). Pour in broth if using. Stir gently.
2. Simmer gently
   Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 35–40 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning and sugar as needed.
3. Remove onion & blend
   Discard onion halves. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. For chunkier texture, pulse lightly.
4. Adjust thickness
   If too thick, add water or broth. If too thin, simmer for 5 more minutes to reduce.
5. Serve
   Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and enjoy hot.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4–5 bowls

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 180
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Sugar: 8g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 420mg
Cholesterol: 15mg

Tips & Variations

• Roast your tomatoes for a smokier, deeper flavor.
• Add basil and olive oil for a bright, herbal tomato basil soup.
• Make it creamy with a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk.
• Spice it up with red pepper flakes or smoked paprika.
• For vegan: Use olive oil instead of butter, and veggie broth.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes?
Yes, canned whole peeled tomatoes work great and save time.

Can I freeze tomato soup?
Absolutely. Let it cool, portion it into containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.

How can I make it thicker?
Let it simmer longer or reduce the amount of broth slightly.

Is this gluten-free?
Yes, this tomato soup is naturally gluten-free.

Homemade Tomato Soup

A velvety, homemade tomato soup made with ripe tomatoes, onions, and butter. Quick, comforting, and naturally creamy—no dairy required.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Soup

Cuisine: American

Calories: 180

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• – 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
• – 1 medium yellow onion halved
• – 2 cans 28 oz whole peeled tomatoes or 10–12 ripe tomatoes
• – 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth optional
• – 1 tsp sugar
• – Salt and pepper to taste
• – Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Equipment

• – Large pot
• – Immersion blender (or standard blender)
• Ladle
• – Knife & cutting board

Method

 

1. Melt butter in a large pot. Add onion and tomatoes (with juices).
2. Pour in broth if using. Stir and bring to a simmer.
3. Simmer for 35–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove onion and blend soup until smooth.
5. Adjust thickness with broth or water if needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with basil or parsley.

Notes

– Roast tomatoes beforehand for deeper flavor
– Use canned tomatoes for convenience
– Vegan-friendly with olive oil substitution

Conclusion

Homemade tomato soup is a classic that’s simple, delicious, and incredibly satisfying. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a wholesome meal that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours. Pair it with a grilled cheese or salad and enjoy a warm, cozy lunch any day of the week.