If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting soup that’s easy to prepare, Old Fashioned Homemade Tomato Soup is the perfect choice. Its rich flavor, silky texture, and nostalgic charm make it a classic dish that’s loved by many. Whether it’s a cold winter evening or a simple craving for something hearty, this recipe brings warmth to the table. Below, you’ll find a detailed recipe from scratch and tips for achieving the best results.
1. Old Fashioned Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe (4 Servings)
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped (or two 14-ounce cans of diced tomatoes)
- 2 cups vegetable stock (or chicken stock)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- ½ teaspoon dried basil (or 2 tablespoons fresh, chopped)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for creaminess)
Instructions
Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and stir well. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flavor of the flour.
Add the chopped tomatoes, stock, tomato paste, sugar, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer.
Cover the pot and let the soup cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Remove the pot from heat and purée the soup using an immersion blender or transfer it to a regular blender in batches. Blend until smooth.
Return the soup to the pot, stir in the cream or milk (if using), and warm through. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve hot with your favorite garnishes, like croutons, fresh basil, or a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Tips To Perfect Homemade Tomato Soup
Use ripe tomatoes: Fresh, juicy tomatoes bring out the best flavor. If fresh tomatoes are unavailable, canned diced or whole tomatoes work well.
Don’t skip the sauté step: Properly cooking the onions and garlic builds a flavorful base.
Balance acidity: Some tomatoes can be quite tangy. A small amount of sugar can balance the acidity without making the soup sweet.
Blend for the right texture: An immersion blender offers convenience, but a traditional blender delivers a velvety texture. Strain the soup if you prefer it ultra-smooth.
Taste as you go: Adjust seasonings like salt and pepper gradually to suit your preference.
3. Recipe Variations
This classic tomato soup recipe is versatile and easy to adapt:
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Add extra cream and more fresh basil for a rich, herbaceous flavor.
Roasted Tomato Soup: Roast the tomatoes, onion, and garlic in the oven before blending for a deeper, smoky taste.
Spicy Tomato Soup: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a heat kick.
Vegan Tomato Soup: Replace butter with olive oil and use coconut milk instead of cream for a plant-based version.
Tomato Soup with Vegetables: Add diced carrots, celery, or roasted bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
4. What To Eat With Tomato Soup
Tomato soup is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic companion to tomato soup. Gooey cheese and crispy bread make the perfect match.
Crusty Bread or Baguette: Serve warm bread for dipping into the soup.
Salad: A fresh, crisp salad like Caesar or mixed greens balances the richness of the soup.
Cheese Toast: Top slices of bread with cheese and broil until bubbly for an easy side.
Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted veggies adds texture and complements the flavors of the soup.
5. How To Store & Reheat Leftovers
Homemade tomato soup stores well, making it a great option for meal prep.
Storing: Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Pour the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Avoid adding cream before freezing; stir it in when reheating.
Reheating: Warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or stock if it’s too thick. If reheating from frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
This Old Fashioned Homemade Tomato Soup recipe is as comforting as it is versatile. With a few simple ingredients and a little care, you can create a dish that’s both timeless and satisfying. Whether paired with a grilled cheese or enjoyed on its own, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.