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There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of creamy tomato soup. It’s a timeless classic that never disappoints—rich, velvety, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners, lazy weekends, or when you just need a little comfort in a bowl, this creamy tomato soup recipe is your go-to. It’s quick, easy, budget-friendly, and guess what? You can make a single serving in just 30 minutes!
Seeking more fast and delicious single serving soup recipes? Explore our tempting Lasagna Soup, creamy Potato Soup, savory French Onion Soup, and hearty White Bean Soup. Each one promises a burst of flavor and simplicity in preparation, perfect for any meal.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these items in your pantry already!
- Quick to Make: Ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for those “What’s for dinner?” moments.
- Rich and Creamy: A touch of cream takes this from a standard tomato soup to a luxurious experience.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to fit vegan or gluten-free diets.
- Doubles Well: Need more servings? The recipe can be easily scaled up without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients
Wondering why each ingredient is in the recipe and what you can substitute for it? You’re in the right place. From sautéing to seasoning, each ingredient in this creamy tomato soup plays a crucial role.
- Butter: Opt for salted butter when sautéing onions and garlic. For a vegan-friendly version, olive oil is a great substitute.
- Onions and garlic: These kitchen essentials contribute depth and complexity to your tomato soup. They’re the backbone of flavor in almost any savory dish.
- Smoked paprika: This unique spice offers a subtle smoky kick thanks to its smoke-dried chili pepper origin. If you can’t find smoked paprika, no worries—regular or sweet paprika will suffice.
- Dried basil: Preferred for its robust flavor profile, dried basil stands up well to cooking. Want to go fresh? Stir in some fresh basil leaves just before blending to avoid bitterness.
- Chili powder: Contrary to popular belief, chili powder isn’t super spicy; it adds a gentle warmth that complements the soup’s creamy texture.
- Salt: For seasoning, a 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt does the trick. If you’re working with regular salt, reduce the amount to 1/8 teaspoon and adjust to taste later.
- Tomatoes: Any 14- or 15-ounce can of tomatoes—be it diced, whole, or crushed—works perfectly in this soup recipe. If you’ve got leftover canned tomatoes, consider using them in Chicken Tacos, Spanish Rice, and Chicken Paprika.
- Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth is my top pick for controlling salt content. For a plant-based version, switch to vegetable broth. We use broth in many of our single serving and small batch recipes. If you’ve got any leftover, consider using it in Chicken Divan or a Mushroom Casserole.
- Honey: A little goes a long way in taming the natural acidity of tomatoes and enhancing their sweet undertones. Use extra honey in Pickled Onions and Chickpea Curry. For a vegan version, use maple syrup, agave or a touch of sugar.
- Heavy cream: To achieve that lush, velvety texture, use heavy cream or heavy whipping cream. While you can use whole milk or half & half, these lighter alternatives will yield a less rich soup but still a tasty one. Use full-fat canned coconut milk as a vegan alternative. Leftover cream can be used in Chicken Tikka Masala, Fettuccine Alfredo, or in a small German Chocolate Cake!
If you have any ingredients leftover from this recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder.
Recipe Variations
Looking to switch up this classic creamy tomato soup? Whether you’re aiming for extra flavor, a vegetarian alternative, or even a vegan option, we’ve got you covered. Check out these tasty variations that’ll keep your soup game strong.
- Add Bacon for Extra Flavor: For a smoky, meaty twist, cook 1 or 2 strips of bacon directly in the soup pot. Once cooked, remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Use the leftover bacon grease in place of butter for sautéing your onions and garlic.
- Go Vegetarian: Swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth to make a fully vegetarian version of this creamy tomato soup.
- Opt for a Vegan Version: Create a plant-based creamy tomato soup by using vegetable broth and substituting full-fat canned coconut milk for the cream. Also, use oil instead of butter and opt for sugar or maple syrup in place of honey.
- Turn it Into Creamy Vegetable Soup: Add a nutritional punch by including fresh vegetables like chopped carrots, broccoli, or cauliflower. Stir them in and let them simmer until tender.
- Elevate with Homemade Croutons: A crunchy crouton topping adds a delightful texture contrast. Homemade croutons make this dish irresistibly good.
- Make A Version Of Shakshuka: After puréeing the soup, crack an egg into the pot and let it simmer covered for 5-8 minutes. Skip the cream and garnish with a handful of crumbled feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
How To Make Creamy Tomato Soup
These step-by-step photos and instructions help you visualize how to make a single serving of creamy tomato soup. See the recipe box below for ingredient amounts and full recipe instructions.
- Melt the butter in a 2-quart pot over medium heat.
- Add the onions and cook, stirring frequently until the onions are soft and translucent, about 1 minute.
- Add the garlic, smoked paprika, dried basil, chili powder, and salt and cook, stirring frequently for an additional 1 minute.
- Add the tomatoes and broth and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally for 20 minutes.
- Add the honey and stir.
- Pour the soup into a stand blender, or use an immersion blender to puree the soup to desired consistency.
- Return the soup to the pot and stir in the cream. Pour into a bowl and top with shredded or grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and enjoy immediately.
Expert Tips
Making this creamy tomato soup is a breeze, but a few expert tips can elevate your dish to a whole new level. Whether you’re a soup aficionado or a complete beginner, these pointers will help ensure your success in the kitchen.
- Prep Ahead: Before you dive into cooking, take a moment to read the entire recipe and review the ingredient notes. Having everything prepped and ready streamlines the cooking process, making it even quicker and more enjoyable.
- Opt for Canned Tomatoes: These pantry staples are harvested at their flavor peak and carefully preserved. This makes for a soup that’s not just easy to prepare but also deeply rich and flavorful.
- Master the Salt Game: Using low-sodium broth allows you to have greater control over the sodium level in your soup. If you’re using a regular broth, you might need to dial back on the added salt. Always taste test towards the end and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Garnish Galore: Once your soup is done, consider elevating it with a sprinkle of croutons, a dash of fresh herbs, a handful of toasted nuts, a dollop of sour cream, or some extra shredded cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve mastered the art of creating a bowl of velvety creamy tomato soup, let’s talk about taking it to the next level with some irresistible accompaniments. A great bowl of soup deserves stellar sidekicks, whether you’re enjoying a simple lunch or setting the stage for a dinner feast.
- Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, freshly-baked French bread or soft, buttery biscuits makes the perfect companion for soaking up this creamy soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Go old-school with a classic grilled cheese sandwich. Try a blend of cheddar and Gruyère for a melty, flavorful pairing that complements the tomato richness beautifully.
- Fresh Herb Garnish: Elevate the aesthetics and taste by sprinkling some freshly chopped basil, chives, or parsley over your soup. This not only adds color but also introduces a burst of fresh flavor to each spoonful.
- Parmesan Crisps: Make or buy Parmesan crisps to add both crunch and a cheesy delight to your creamy concoction. It’s a gourmet touch that’s surprisingly simple to achieve.
- Veggie Sticks: For a healthier spin, serve the soup with a side of sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or carrots. They offer a refreshing contrast to the soup’s creamy richness.
How To Store And Reheat Creamy Tomato Soup
Keep your leftover creamy tomato soup fresh by sealing it in an airtight container and storing it in the fridge for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.
Looking to freeze your creamy tomato soup? No problem! Pour the cooled soup into an airtight container and freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to dig in, let the soup thaw in the fridge before reheating it either on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely, doubling this creamy tomato soup is a breeze. Simply double the amounts of each ingredient and follow the same cooking instructions.
Making a vegan version of this creamy tomato soup is quite easy. Replace the butter with olive oil or avocado oil for sautéing onions and garlic. For the sweetener, omit the honey and opt for maple syrup or add 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon of sugar. Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat canned coconut milk.
The soup is designed to have a luscious texture, but if you prefer it thicker, you have several options:
* Add 1/2 tablespoon of all-purpose flour to the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring frequently for a minute before incorporating the tomatoes and broth.
* Enhance the richness with extra cream or even some sour cream.
* Incorporate cubed sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or other veggies to absorb excess liquid.
* Add quinoa or lentils, which will soak up some of the liquid and naturally thicken the soup. This addition will extend the overall cooking time.
A bisque is typically a rich, creamy soup often made originally from seafood or vegetable stock. Modern iterations, however, can be made with any type of cream and broth. Generally, a bisque will have a thicker and creamier consistency compared to a regular soup.
Ways To Use Leftover Ingredients
If you have any ingredients leftover from this recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder or you might like to consider using them in any of these single serving and small batch recipes:
Explore More Single Serving Soup Recipes
If you’re enjoying the convenience and flavor of single serving dishes, don’t stop at tomato soup. There’s a whole world of one-bowl wonders to explore that are perfect for those cooking for one or for scaling up when you have company. From traditional favorites to international delights, check out a few of our delightful single serving soup recipes to keep your taste buds excited.
For more information on the cooking and baking dishes I use in our “recipes for one”, please visit our FAQ page.
For examples of the dishes used at One Dish Kitchen, please visit our Store page.
If you’ve tried this creamy tomato soup recipe or any recipe on One Dish Kitchen please let me know how you liked it by rating the recipe and telling me about it in the comment section below.
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Creamy Tomato Soup For One
Equipment
- Immersion blender or stand blender
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon salted butter
- ¼ cup chopped onions
- 1 clove garlic , minced
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅛ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- ½ cup low sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 2 tablespoon heavy cream
- Optional, for topping: grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a 2-quart pot over medium heat.
- Add the onions and cook, stirring frequently until the onions are soft and translucent, about 1 minute.
- Add the garlic, smoked paprika, dried basil, salt, and chili powder and cook, stirring frequently for an additional 1 minute.
- Add the tomatoes and broth and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally for 20 minutes.
- Add the honey and stir.
- Pour the soup into a stand blender, or use an immersion blender to puree the soup to desired consistency.
- Return the soup to the pot and stir in the cream. Pour into a bowl and top with shredded or grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Prep Ahead: Before you dive into cooking, take a moment to read the entire recipe and review the ingredient notes. Having everything prepped and ready streamlines the cooking process, making it even quicker and more enjoyable.
- Opt for Canned Tomatoes: These pantry staples are harvested at their flavor peak and carefully preserved. This makes for a soup that’s not just easy to prepare but also deeply rich and flavorful.
- Master the Salt Game: Using low-sodium broth allows you to have greater control over the sodium level in your soup. If you’re using a regular broth, you might need to dial back on the added salt. Always taste test towards the end and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Garnish Galore: Once your soup is done, consider elevating it with a sprinkle of croutons, a dash of fresh herbs, a handful of toasted nuts, a dollop of sour cream, or some extra shredded cheese.
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
What a great recipe! I had Better than Bouillon to make the 1/2 c of chicken broth. Made it exactly as Joanie described except I added cheese tortellini at the end and split the soup with my hubby.
I made the tomato soup using some of my home canned tomatoes and it is delicious. I used a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. This will definitely be a staple in our house.
Delicious loved it!
Good recipe.