Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup

There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup, especially on a chilly day. Picture this: a rich, velvety tomato soup with a chunky texture that’s just the right balance of smooth and hearty. It’s loaded with tomatoes, bursting with flavor, and finished off with a touch of cream to give it that cozy, luxurious feel. Pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich, and you’ve got yourself a nostalgic, soul-soothing meal that’s sure to bring a smile to your face. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become your go-to comfort food!

Why You’ll Love Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup

Here’s why this soup is destined to be your new favorite:

Classic Comfort:

This soup has that classic, cozy feel you crave, with a depth of flavor that’s far from basic. The combination of chunky and creamy textures is both satisfying and indulgent.

Simple Ingredients:

It’s made with basic pantry staples like tomatoes, garlic, and onions, with a few additional touches to make it extra special. No need for fancy ingredients—just wholesome, everyday items that come together to create something magical.

Quick and Easy:

This recipe is surprisingly simple, with a short prep time and straightforward steps. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, you’ll feel like a pro while making this soup.

Customizable:

Feel free to adjust the thickness of the soup to your liking, adding more cream for extra richness or more broth for a lighter version. You can even add extra herbs or seasonings to personalize it.

Crowd-Pleasing:

Everyone loves a bowl of tomato soup, especially when it’s homemade! It’s a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or as a comforting solo meal.

Ingredients in Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup

Here’s what you’ll need for this deliciously creamy, chunky tomato soup:

Fresh Tomatoes:

The heart of the soup! You’ll use fresh tomatoes for their natural sweetness and flavor. You can also use canned tomatoes if fresh ones aren’t in season.

Onion and Garlic:

These two create the perfect aromatic base for the soup, adding depth and flavor right from the start.

Chicken or Vegetable Broth:

The broth helps build the savory background of the soup and gives it the right consistency. Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

Heavy Cream:

This is what turns your tomato soup into something special—creamy and rich, adding a luxurious texture that makes each spoonful irresistible.

Olive Oil:

Used for sautéing the onions and garlic, olive oil adds richness and helps bring out the flavors in the vegetables.

Fresh Herbs:

Basil and thyme are classic herbs that pair beautifully with tomatoes. You can also add bay leaves for an extra layer of flavor.

(Note: Full measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Let’s get into the steps that’ll transform these simple ingredients into a bowl of comfort!

1. Sauté the Aromatics:

In a large pot, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. Add Tomatoes and Herbs:

Next, toss in the chopped tomatoes, along with the basil, thyme, and bay leaves. Stir everything together and cook for a few minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down slightly and release their juices.

3. Pour in the Broth:

Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and meld with the herbs.

4. Blend the Soup:

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth but still slightly chunky. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and blend to your desired texture.

5. Add the Cream:

Once the soup is blended to your liking, stir in the heavy cream, adjusting the amount for a creamier or lighter texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Ladle the soup into bowls, and if you like, garnish with fresh basil or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness. Serve it alongside a grilled cheese for the ultimate comfort meal.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 280
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 850mg
Total Carbohydrates: 26g
Dietary Fiber: 5g
Sugars: 12g
Protein: 4g
Vitamin A: 20%
Vitamin C: 30%
Calcium: 6%
Iron: 8%
Potassium: 800mg

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup

This soup is perfect on its own, but here are a few ways to make it even better:

Grilled Cheese Sandwich:

This is the ultimate pairing! The crunchy, melty goodness of a grilled cheese sandwich complements the creamy, tangy tomato soup beautifully.

Crusty Bread:

Serve the soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping. A baguette, sourdough, or even a soft dinner roll would be perfect for soaking up the soup.

Fresh Salad:

Pair with a light, crisp salad for a more balanced meal. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette would provide a nice contrast to the richness of the soup.

Toppings:

Top your soup with a sprinkle of shredded cheese, a swirl of cream, or a few croutons for added texture and flavor.

Additional Tips

Make it Vegan:

To make this soup dairy-free, simply swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Use Canned Tomatoes:

If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, canned tomatoes are a great substitute. Opt for whole, peeled tomatoes for the best texture and flavor.

Adjust the Texture:

If you prefer a smoother soup, blend it fully. If you like a chunkier texture, leave it more rustic and blend only a little bit.

Add Extra Veggies:

Feel free to sneak in some extra veggies like carrots, celery, or bell peppers to increase the soup’s nutritional value without compromising on flavor.

Make it Ahead:

This soup stores beautifully. Make a batch ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?
A1: Absolutely! Canned tomatoes are a great substitute. Just be sure to use high-quality whole peeled tomatoes for the best texture and flavor.

Q2: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A2: Yes! This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just reheat on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy it.

Q3: How can I make this soup spicier?
A3: If you like a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onions and garlic.

Q4: Can I make this soup without cream?
A4: Yes, you can omit the cream for a lighter version. For creaminess without the dairy, try adding a spoonful of coconut milk or blended cashews.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this soup?
A5: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from burning. If the soup is too thick after refrigeration, add a little extra broth to thin it out.

Q6: Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
A6: Definitely! Carrots, celery, or even zucchini would make great additions. Just chop them small and cook them with the onions for extra flavor.

Q7: Can I use low-sodium broth?
A7: Yes! If you’re watching your sodium intake, feel free to use low-sodium broth, and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Q8: Is this soup gluten-free?
A8: Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check that your broth is also gluten-free if you’re using store-bought.

Q9: Can I make this soup without a blender?
A9: Yes! If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can mash the soup with a potato masher for a chunkier texture or use a regular blender in batches.

Q10: Can I freeze this soup?
A10: Yes! This soup freezes wonderfully. Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat on the stovetop.

Conclusion

Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup is everything you want in a cozy, comforting dish. It’s rich, flavorful, and just the right amount of hearty. Whether you’re craving a classic soup and sandwich combo or looking for a comforting bowl to warm you up, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Make it today and enjoy the perfect taste of comfort!

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