Simple & Creamy Tomato Soup
A velvety smooth tomato soup made from scratch with fresh ripe tomatoes, a touch of cream, and simple pantry aromatics. It comes together in about 30 minutes and tastes infinitely better than anything from a can. Perfect with a grilled cheese sandwich on a chilly evening.
For 4 servings
- saute · ~5 min
Sauté the aromatics until softened.
1.Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.2.Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes.3.Add smashed garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. - boil · ~20 min
Simmer the tomatoes until they break down.
1.Add quartered tomatoes, water, salt, and sugar to the pot.2.Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer.3.Cover and cook until tomatoes are completely soft and skins slip off, about 20 minutes.4.Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.TIPDon't rush the simmer — fully cooked tomatoes blend into the silkiest soup. - mix · ~3 min
Blend until velvety smooth.
1.Remove the pot from heat and let cool slightly for 2 minutes.2.Use an immersion blender directly in the pot and blend until completely smooth.3.For an ultra-silky texture, strain through a fine-mesh sieve (optional).TIPIf using a countertop blender, work in batches and remove the center cap to let steam escape — hot soup expands and can blow the lid off. - simmer · ~2 min
Finish with cream and black pepper.
1.Return the blended soup to low heat.2.Stir in the heavy cream until fully incorporated.3.Add freshly ground black pepper and adjust salt if needed.4.Warm through for 2 minutes without letting it boil. - garnish
Ladle into bowls and garnish with torn basil.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use overripe tomatoes for the deepest, sweetest flavor in the soup.
- 2Simmer the tomato skins until they start to slip off for easiest blending.
- 3Don't let the soup boil after adding cream — it may curdle.
- 4For a silkier texture, strain the blended soup through a fine-mesh sieve.
- 5Make a double batch and freeze the soup (without cream) for up to 3 months.
- 6Balance overly acidic tomatoes with a small pinch of baking soda instead of sugar.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Omit the heavy cream and instead blend in 1/4 cup of raw cashews soaked in hot water for 15 minutes, or use full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free, creamy texture.
RoastedRoasted
For a deeper, smokier flavor, roast the quartered tomatoes, onion, and garlic at 400°F for 25 minutes before simmering in the water.
SpicySpicy
Add 1/2 a seeded jalapeño or 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes with the onion for a gentle heat that cuts through the cream.
HerbyHerby
Stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh oregano or thyme in the last 5 minutes of simmering for an earthy, Mediterranean twist.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Lycopene
Cooked tomatoes release more lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to heart health, than raw ones.
Low in Calories
This soup is naturally low-calorie and uses a modest amount of cream, making it a light yet satisfying meal option.
Good Source of Vitamin C
Fresh tomatoes provide a significant amount of vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health.
Gut-Friendly Fiber
Tomatoes contain soluble fiber that aids digestion, especially when the skins are left on and blended in.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, one 28-ounce can of whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes works perfectly — skip the water and simmer for just 10 minutes.







