Crushed Tomato Soup Recipe

Crushed tomato soup is a classic, comforting dish that can bring a sense of warmth to any meal. With its smooth texture, rich flavors, and the natural sweetness of tomatoes, it’s a perfect option for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner. The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. Just a few basic ingredients combined in the right way can create a bowl of pure satisfaction.

Unlike traditional tomato soup made from pureed tomatoes, crushed tomato soup offers a slightly chunkier texture that’s full of depth and personality. It feels hearty, but still light enough to enjoy on a summer day or when you’re just in the mood for something a little more rustic.

Whether you’re preparing it from scratch or using canned tomatoes, the results are always satisfying. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish, explore what goes into it, and share some tips for making the perfect bowl of crushed tomato soup.

Crushed Tomato Soup Recipe

This is a simple recipe that doesn’t require too much time or effort, but yields a flavorful and satisfying soup that can be enjoyed year-round. Here’s how you can prepare it:

Ingredients Needed

1. Canned Crushed Tomatoes – The star of the show! You’ll want a good-quality canned crushed tomato, preferably one without added preservatives or excess salt.
2. Onion – Adds a savory base to the soup. You’ll need one medium onion, finely chopped.
3. Garlic – Fresh garlic (about 2 cloves) is key for an aromatic depth. You can use minced garlic for convenience.
4. Olive Oil – For sautéing the onions and garlic. A couple of tablespoons will do.
5. Vegetable or Chicken Broth – Depending on your preference, 4 cups of broth will give the soup its body.
6. Salt & Pepper – Season to taste. These two basic seasonings will elevate all the other flavors.
7. Dried Herbs – A blend of basil and oregano is commonly used. Fresh herbs work as well if you have them on hand.
8. Sugar – A pinch of sugar balances the natural acidity of the tomatoes and gives the soup a smoother flavor.
9. Heavy Cream or Milk (optional) – To make the soup extra creamy. This is optional but adds a richness that takes the soup to another level.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prep The Ingredients

   • Finely chop your onion and garlic. If you’re using fresh herbs, chop them up as well.
   • Open the can of crushed tomatoes and set aside.

2. Sauté The Aromatics

   • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re soft and translucent.
   • Stir frequently to prevent burning and to ensure that the flavors meld together.

3. Add The Tomatoes

   • Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes. Stir the mixture to combine with the garlic and onions.
   • Add the broth and bring everything to a simmer. Lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer for 15-20 minutes. This step helps deepen the flavors and reduces the soup to the right consistency.

4. Season

   • Add salt, pepper, dried basil, oregano, and a pinch of sugar. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
   • If you like a touch of acidity, you can add a small squeeze of lemon juice, but that’s optional.

5. Blend (Optional)

   • If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender in batches. Be careful as the soup will be hot. Blend until it reaches your desired consistency. If you want to keep some chunkiness, blend just a bit or pulse lightly.

6. Finish With Cream

   • Stir in the heavy cream or milk (if using) and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to incorporate. This will create a luscious, creamy texture.

7. Serve

   • Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of cream for extra richness. Serve with a warm, crispy grilled cheese sandwich on the side for the perfect pairing.

Ingredient Insights

• Crushed Tomatoes: These are tomatoes that have been pureed and then crushed into a chunky texture. They offer a bit more substance than pureed tomatoes and hold up well in soups. They also retain more of their natural sweetness and tanginess, which adds great flavor complexity to the soup.
• Onion & Garlic: These two ingredients form the base of almost every soup, sauce, and stew. Onions provide a savory foundation, while garlic gives the soup that wonderful aromatic punch. Together, they create a flavor profile that is simultaneously rich and comforting.
• Broth: The choice between vegetable and chicken broth largely comes down to dietary preferences. Vegetable broth is great for vegetarians or vegans, while chicken broth gives the soup a slightly richer taste.
• Herbs: Basil and oregano are classic choices when it comes to tomato-based dishes. They complement the natural sweetness and acidity of tomatoes beautifully. Feel free to experiment with thyme or bay leaves for a more aromatic twist.
• Cream: While not essential, a splash of cream at the end of the cooking process can completely transform your tomato soup, giving it a velvety texture and rich flavor that makes each spoonful incredibly indulgent.

Expert Tips

• Use Good Quality Tomatoes: Since tomatoes are the star of the dish, their quality really matters. Go for tomatoes that are rich and flavorful. If you can, buy organic tomatoes, as they tend to have a better taste.
• Balance the Acidity: Tomatoes can be quite acidic, which is why a small pinch of sugar is often recommended. You can also add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup if you prefer a more natural sweetener.
• Flavor Development: For an even richer taste, let the soup simmer longer (30 minutes or more). The more time it has to cook, the more the flavors will meld together. Just make sure to stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick to the bottom.
• Make It Ahead: Tomato soup often tastes better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld. If you have leftovers, refrigerate and reheat them the following day. You may need to add a bit more broth when reheating to get the right consistency.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Tomato Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the soup while sautéing the onions and garlic. For an extra kick, top the soup with a drizzle of hot sauce or some sliced fresh chili peppers.
• Tomato Basil Soup: To make the soup even more flavorful, add fresh basil leaves right before serving. You can also blend them into the soup for a vibrant green color and fresh flavor.
• Smoky Tomato Soup: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to give the soup a subtle smoky flavor. This pairs beautifully with grilled cheese sandwiches.
• Vegan Version: Simply swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream. Use vegetable broth to keep it fully plant-based.
• Cheesy Tomato Soup: For a more indulgent version, stir in shredded cheddar cheese just before serving. The melted cheese will make the soup ultra-creamy and comforting.

Final Words

Tomato soup is a meal that’s been enjoyed by generations, and for good reason. It’s simple, adaptable, and oh-so-delicious. Whether you’re looking for something to warm you up on a cold winter’s day or a nostalgic meal to satisfy your comfort food cravings, this crushed tomato soup recipe has you covered.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility – you can easily tweak it to match your taste or dietary needs. Plus, it’s a great canvas for creativity, whether you want to make it spicy, smoky, or extra creamy. And the best part? You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry, which means you can whip it up at a moment’s notice.