Let’s be honest: nothing beats the comfort of a warm bowl of tomato soup, especially when life feels a little rushed. But who has hours to simmer, stir, and wait for that rich, homemade flavor? That’s where this quick tomato soup with canned tomatoes comes in. It’s vibrant, cozy, and packed with flavor, all while being incredibly convenient. Plus, canned tomatoes are a kitchen hero-they’re available year-round, economical, and surprisingly full of that sun-ripened taste we all crave. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner, a quick lunch, or a last-minute snack, this soup has got your back.
Quick Tomato Soup With Canned Tomatoes Recipe
This is the perfect recipe for anyone who loves a hearty, flavorful soup but doesn’t have a lot of time. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a velvety, aromatic bowl of tomato goodness. The best part? Minimal ingredients, maximum taste.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to get started. Don’t worry-it’s nothing fancy, just pantry staples:
- Canned Tomatoes – 2 cans (14-15 oz each), preferably whole peeled or diced for maximum flavor
- Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped for sweetness and depth
- Garlic – 2-3 cloves, minced for that punch of aroma
- Vegetable or Chicken Broth – 2 cups, for a light, savory base
- Olive Oil or Butter – 1-2 tablespoons, for sautéing
- Sugar – 1 teaspoon (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and Pepper – to taste, because seasoning makes all the difference
- Fresh Herbs – basil, thyme, or parsley, chopped for garnish
- Cream or Milk – optional, for a creamy twist
Cooking Instructions
Here’s the step-by-step approach to your perfect bowl of soup:
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Prep Your Ingredients
- Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic.
- Open the canned tomatoes, giving them a quick stir if whole.
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Sauté Aromatics
- Heat olive oil or butter in a medium pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Toss in the garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
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Add Tomatoes And Broth
- Pour in the canned tomatoes along with their juice.
- Add the broth and stir gently to combine.
- Season lightly with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar if desired.
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Simmer And Blend
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- Alternatively, transfer to a blender in batches, being careful with hot liquids.
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Finish With Cream (Optional)
- Stir in a splash of cream or milk for a luxurious, silky texture.
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Serve And Garnish
- Ladle into bowls, sprinkle with fresh herbs, and perhaps a drizzle of olive oil.
- Serve with crusty bread or grilled cheese for the ultimate comfort combo.
Ingredient Insights
- Canned Tomatoes: Did you know canned tomatoes are often picked and processed at peak ripeness? That means you get a consistent, concentrated tomato flavor any time of year.
- Garlic & Onion: These aromatics are the soul of any soup, providing a subtle sweetness and depth that transforms simple tomatoes into something extraordinary.
- Broth Choice: Vegetable broth keeps it light and vegetarian-friendly, while chicken broth adds a richer, savory undertone.
- Cream or Milk: A little dairy goes a long way. It softens acidity, adds body, and gives your soup that ’restaurant-quality’ feel without fuss.
Expert Tips
- Skip the Skins: If you want an ultra-smooth soup, peel the tomatoes before blending. Just a quick blanching in boiling water and a cold water bath does the trick.
- Layer Flavors: Sauté onions and garlic slowly, don’t rush. Caramelization adds a subtle sweetness that balances tomato acidity.
- Adjust Thickness: If the soup feels too thick, add more broth. Too thin? Simmer longer to concentrate flavors.
- Acidity Balance: A pinch of sugar or a splash of cream balances tangy tomatoes without making the soup sweet.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Tomato Soup: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while simmering.
- Herb-Forward Soup: Infuse with rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a Mediterranean twist.
- Cheesy Tomato Soup: Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan for a comforting, rich version.
- Roasted Tomato Soup: Roast canned tomatoes with garlic and onion before blending for a deeper, smoky flavor.
Final Words
This quick tomato soup with canned tomatoes proves that fast doesn’t have to mean boring. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a soup that tastes like it’s been simmering all day. It’s versatile, forgiving, and utterly satisfying-perfect for busy weeknights or lazy afternoons.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For A Quick Tomato Soup With Canned Tomatoes?
To make a quick tomato soup, you’ll need canned tomatoes (whole, diced, or crushed), olive oil, garlic, onion, vegetable or chicken broth, salt, pepper, sugar (optional), and fresh or dried herbs like basil or oregano. You can also add heavy cream or milk for a creamier texture.
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead Of Canned For This Recipe?
While canned tomatoes are ideal for quick tomato soup due to their convenience and consistency, you can use fresh tomatoes. You would need about 6-8 medium tomatoes, and they should be blanched, peeled, and chopped before adding them to the soup.
How Long Does It Take To Make Quick Tomato Soup With Canned Tomatoes?
The soup can be ready in approximately 20 to 30 minutes. The cooking time mainly involves simmering the tomatoes with the aromatics and broth, making it a fast and simple dish.
How Can I Make The Soup Creamier?
To make the soup creamier, you can add heavy cream, half-and-half, or milk after blending the soup. Alternatively, you can use cream cheese or a dollop of sour cream for a richer texture.
Can I Use An Immersion Blender For This Soup?
Yes, an immersion blender is perfect for quickly blending the soup directly in the pot. It helps create a smooth texture without the need to transfer the soup to a regular blender.
Is It Possible To Make The Soup Spicy?
Yes, you can add heat to your tomato soup by incorporating ingredients like red pepper flakes, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or even finely chopped jalapeños. Adjust the spice level to your preference.
What Can I Serve With Quick Tomato Soup?
Tomato soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches, croutons, a side salad, or a slice of crusty bread. You can also top the soup with fresh basil, shredded cheese, or a swirl of cream for extra flavor.
Can I Make This Tomato Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, the soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage (up to 3 months). Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.
How Can I Adjust The Flavor Of The Soup?
You can adjust the flavor by adding ingredients such as sugar (to balance acidity), garlic powder, onion powder, or balsamic vinegar. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme will also enhance the taste, depending on your preference.
Is This Tomato Soup Gluten-free?
Yes, the basic version of this tomato soup is naturally gluten-free. However, if you add ingredients like croutons or certain seasonings, make sure they are gluten-free.