Easy Homemade Tomato Soup – Simple Weeknight Recipe

This easy homemade tomato soup is a simple weeknight recipe made with tomatoes, onion, garlic, broth, and a few pantry seasonings. It is smooth, comforting, and easy to adjust depending on whether you prefer a lighter soup or a creamier finish.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cans (14 to 15 ounces each) diced or crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried basil or Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sugar, optional, if the tomatoes taste especially acidic
• 1/3 cup cream or milk, optional

How to Make Easy Homemade Tomato Soup

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant, taking care not to let it brown too much.
4. Add the tomatoes, broth, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and cook for about 15 to 20 minutes so the flavors combine.
6. Blend until smooth using an immersion blender, or carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender.
7. Taste and adjust the seasoning. Add a small amount of sugar only if needed to balance sharp acidity.
8. If using cream or milk, stir it in over low heat after blending. Do not boil aggressively once dairy is added.

How to Blend Soup Safely

Hot liquids expand and create steam. If you use a countertop blender, work in small batches and follow the blender manufacturer’s instructions for hot liquids. An immersion blender is often the simplest option because the soup can stay in the pot.

How to Make It Creamy

For a richer texture, add a small amount of cream, half-and-half, or milk after blending. Add it gradually so you can control the final consistency. If you want a dairy-free version, leave it out or use an unsweetened plant-based alternative that works well in savory dishes.

Easy Variations

Add roasted flavor

Use fire-roasted canned tomatoes for a deeper flavor without adding extra steps.

Add vegetables

Cook chopped carrot or celery with the onion. These vegetables will blend into the soup and add body.

Add heat

Add a small pinch of red pepper flakes with the tomatoes.

Add fresh herbs

Stir in fresh basil after blending for a brighter finish.

What to Serve With Tomato Soup

Tomato soup pairs well with grilled cheese, toasted bread, a simple salad, or roasted vegetables. For another easy dinner, try our easy tomato basil pasta, sheet pan chicken and vegetables, or one-pot chicken and rice.

Storage and Reheating

Cool leftovers promptly and store them in a covered container in the refrigerator. The USDA recommends refrigerating perishable leftovers within two hours. See their leftovers and food safety guidance for general storage and reheating information.

Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot throughout. If the soup thickens in the refrigerator, add a small splash of broth or water while reheating.

Common Problems

The soup tastes too acidic

First check the salt. If the tomatoes are still very sharp, a small amount of sugar or cream can soften the acidity.

The soup is too thin

Simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes before blending, or reduce the amount of broth slightly next time.

The soup is too thick

Add broth a little at a time until the consistency is right.

Final Thoughts

This easy homemade tomato soup is a useful basic recipe because it relies on simple ingredients and can be adapted easily. Keep the seasoning balanced, blend carefully, and adjust the thickness at the end rather than adding too much liquid at the start.

Photo: Ella Olsson via Unsplash.