Rich & Cozy Tomato Soup That Tastes Like Childhood
This Rich & Cozy Tomato Soup is the ultimate comfort food that tastes just like childhood but even better. Creamy, velvety, and deeply flavorful, it’s made with simple ingredients in under an hour for a nostalgic, heartwarming meal that pairs perfectly with grilled cheese or crusty bread.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 28 oz can crushed or whole peeled tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tsp sugar to balance acidity
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
- Red pepper flakes for heat (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
- Pour in canned tomatoes and broth. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender (or carefully transfer to a blender) to puree the soup until smooth.
- Stir in cream, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
- For extra depth, add roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Swap cream for coconut milk to make it dairy-free.
- Stir in cooked white beans or shredded chicken for added protein.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or smoked paprika for complexity.
- Great with grilled cheese, garlic toast, or crusty bread.