If you’re craving a cozy bowl of comfort that’s bursting with rich flavor and a touch of rustic charm, this Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine the deep, velvety cream mingling perfectly with chunky, vibrant tomatoes, all enhanced by a gentle hint of garlic and herbs. It’s the kind of soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, yet bright and fresh enough to satisfy year-round. Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself, this soup promises a delightful experience in every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this soup lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, creating layers of flavor and a luscious texture without any fuss. From the sweetness of caramelized onions to the creamy richness of heavy cream, every component elevates the dish beautifully.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and depth once caramelized.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the onions and building a flavorful base.
- 1 tsp kosher salt: Enhances all the other flavors and balances the acidity.
- 2 tbsp butter: Infuses a silky richness and helps carry the aromatics.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings bold, aromatic punch without overpowering.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Offers a subtle earthy, herbaceous note that complements tomatoes perfectly.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Creates the creamy texture that makes the soup indulgently smooth.
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes (with onion and garlic): The heart of the soup, providing vibrant color and fresh tomato flavor.
- 3-4 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato intensity and thickens the soup.
How to Make Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Begin by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and kosher salt, then cook slowly, stirring occasionally until the onions are soft and golden brown. This process, taking about 10 to 15 minutes, develops a rich sweetness that forms the backbone of the soup’s flavor profile.
Step 2: Add Butter, Garlic, and Oregano
Next, stir in the butter, minced garlic, and dried oregano, letting them cook for about a minute or so. This brief sauté wakes up the aromatics, releasing their fragrant oils that marry beautifully with the caramelized onions.
Step 3: Pour in the Heavy Cream
Slowly add the heavy cream to the pot, stirring continuously to ensure a smooth, even texture. The cream softens the sharpness of the garlic and oregano while lending a velvety consistency that’s signature to this Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup Recipe.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Tomato Paste
Now it’s time to bring in the star ingredients. Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices, then add the tomato paste. Stir everything together well and let the soup simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes. This simmer allows the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly, giving you that perfect chunky yet creamy balance.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Give your soup a taste and add more salt if needed. This is the moment to make sure every spoonful sings with balanced flavor. Serve warm, ideally paired with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Step 6: Optional Texture Twist
If you like your soup with a touch of smoothness but still want those hearty tomato chunks, try blending part of the soup with an immersion blender. This creates a wonderful contrast in textures that makes the soup feel even more special.
How to Serve Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can take this soup from great to unforgettable. Consider a swirl of extra cream, a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley, or a few crunchy croutons to add texture and visual appeal that makes each bowl inviting.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup Recipe pairs beautifully with classic grilled cheese sandwiches for a nostalgic combo. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad or garlic bread to keep the meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling fancy? Serve the soup in mini bread bowls for a rustic touch or drizzle each serving with a little basil-infused olive oil. Another fun idea is to offer toppings like shredded Parmesan, crispy bacon bits, or even a dollop of pesto to customize each bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, so reheating the next day makes for an even tastier meal.
Freezing
This soup freezes well, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep for up to 3 months without losing its creamy texture or bold taste.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of cream or broth to bring it back to luscious silky perfection.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes can be used, especially if they are ripe and in season. Just peel and chop them before adding, and you might need to simmer a bit longer to achieve the same depth and thickness.
Is this soup suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup Recipe is vegetarian-friendly as written. Just be sure to use vegetarian butter or olive oil if you want to keep it fully plant-based.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream and butter with plant-based alternatives like coconut cream or cashew cream, and use olive oil in place of butter. The soup will still be creamy and delicious.
How chunky should the soup be?
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can keep it chunky with plenty of tomato pieces, or blend part of the soup for a velvety texture while leaving some chunks for that lovely mouthfeel.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary. A splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of smoked paprika can add intriguing complexity to this already flavorful soup.
Final Thoughts
Trying this Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup Recipe feels like discovering a new favorite that fits perfectly into your cooking rotation. Its comforting creaminess combined with bright, fresh tomato chunks creates a dish that’s both satisfying and heartwarming. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the simple cooking steps, and treat yourself to a bowl of pure deliciousness—you won’t regret it!
Print
Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup offers a perfect balance of rich, velvety creaminess with hearty chunks of tomatoes. Cooked slowly to develop deep flavors from caramelized onions, garlic, and a blend of spices, this comforting soup is ideal for a cozy meal. It is easy to prepare, perfect for weeknights, and delicious when paired with crusty bread or grilled cheese.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Oils & Fats
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
Pantry Items & Seasonings
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 3–4 tbsp tomato paste (adjust to taste)
Dairy & Canned Goods
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes (with onion and garlic)
Instructions
- Caramelize the onions: In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chopped onion along with the kosher salt and stir occasionally, cooking for about 10-15 minutes until the onions are lightly caramelized and softened.
- Sauté garlic and oregano: Add the butter, minced garlic, and dried oregano to the pot. Cook for another minute until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned, ensuring the flavors meld well.
- Add heavy cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously to combine it evenly with the sautéed vegetables and spices.
- Incorporate tomatoes and paste: Add the diced tomatoes with their juices and the tomato paste to the pot. Stir everything well, then let the soup simmer on medium heat for 15-20 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and for the flavors to deepen.
- Season and serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as necessary with additional salt or tomato paste. Serve warm, optionally with crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting meal.
- Optional blending: For a smoother yet chunky texture, you can blend part of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender, then mix it back into the pot to retain some tomato chunks.
Notes
- Caramelizing the onions slowly enhances the soup’s depth of flavor.
- Adjust the amount of tomato paste for your preferred tomato intensity.
- Blending only part of the soup preserves some texture, keeping it chunky and creamy.
- Serve with grilled cheese or crusty bread for a classic pairing.
- This soup reheats well and can be stored refrigerated for up to 3 days.
