Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes)

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food to warm you up during those chilly winter nights, look no further than this Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes). It’s a recipe that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, using simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. With just a little simmering and blending, you’ll have a rich, creamy soup that’s perfect for cozy dinners or even family gatherings.

What makes this soup even more special is how easy it is to whip up. Whether you’re having a busy weeknight or planning a laid-back weekend, this recipe fits right in. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a melty grilled cheese sandwich—what’s not to love?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for those days when time is short but comfort is needed.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the creamy texture and rich flavor—it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can easily prepare this soup in advance and reheat it for those busy days ahead.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Using canned tomatoes and fresh herbs means you’re getting all the flavors without any fuss.
• Versatile Pairing: Enjoy it as a light meal on its own or pair it with your favorite bread or sandwich for a hearty feast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. You’ll find these items are likely already in your kitchen or easy to grab from the store!

For the Soup Base

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 3 medium carrots, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
• 4 tablespoons tomato paste
• optional: up to 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves and tender stems
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or generous pinch dried thyme)
• one 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable stock or broth

For Creaminess

• optional: ½ cup dry, unoaked white grape juice (see Recipe Notes)
• 2 cups heavy cream, milk, or unsweetened plant milk of choice (almond, oat milk, etc.)

To Season

• kosher salt and ground black pepper, to season

Variations

One of the best parts about this Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup is how flexible it is! Feel free to tweak things based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or spinach for added nutrients and color.
• Spice It Up: If you like heat, try adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or parsley to give your soup a unique twist.
• Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream—it adds a lovely sweetness!

How to Make Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes)

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and carrots. Season them with salt and pepper. Cooking these veggies first helps soften them and brings out their natural sweetness—a vital step for building flavor!

Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste

Stir in your garlic and tomato paste after the onions are slightly translucent. This step is key because browning the tomato paste enhances its flavor. Cook until fragrant—trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Next up, add your basil, thyme, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth (and grape juice if you’re using it). Stir everything well. Bringing this mixture to a boil before simmering allows all those beautiful flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Blend Until Smooth

Carefully transfer the soup into your blender in batches. It’s important not to fill it too much so that you avoid spills! Blending until smooth will create that creamy texture we love. If you’re using an immersion blender, feel free to blend directly in the pot—easy peasy!

Step 5: Finish with Cream

Return your blended soup back to the pot and stir in your cream (or milk of choice). Heat over medium-low until warmed through. Now’s the time to adjust seasoning; taste it! This step ensures every spoonful is delicious.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle your warm soup into bowls and top with cracked black pepper and fresh basil as desired. Pair it with crusty bread or that gooey grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate cozy meal! Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes)

Creating the perfect creamy tomato soup is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some handy tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time!

• Use quality canned tomatoes: The flavor of your soup hinges on the quality of the tomatoes you use. Opt for whole or crushed organic tomatoes for a fresher taste.
• Don’t rush the simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer for a full 15 minutes gives the flavors time to meld together, resulting in a richer and more complex taste.
• Experiment with herbs: While basil and thyme are classic choices, feel free to add other herbs like oregano or parsley for a unique twist that can enhance the flavor profile.
• Adjust creaminess to preference: If you prefer a lighter soup, you can reduce the amount of cream or substitute it with an unsweetened plant-based milk alternative, maintaining that creamy texture without the heaviness.
• Taste as you go: Always sample your soup before serving! Adjusting salt and pepper at the end ensures that every bowl has just the right seasoning.

How to Serve Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes)

Serving this creamy tomato soup is just as enjoyable as making it. With a few garnishes and side dishes, you can elevate this comforting meal into something truly special.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: Adding a few whole leaves as a garnish brings brightness and enhances the basil flavor in the soup.
• Cracked black pepper: A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper not only adds visual appeal but also provides a subtle heat that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.

Side Dishes

• Gooey Mozzarella Grilled Cheese Sandwich: This classic pairing is an absolute must! The melty cheese paired with crispy bread creates a delightful contrast to the rich soup.
• Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread makes for an excellent vehicle for soaking up every last drop of your delicious soup.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette balances out the richness of the tomato soup while adding freshness to your meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts add depth and nutrition to your table, making this meal even more wholesome.

Enjoy crafting your Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup and make it a centerpiece of cozy gatherings or quiet dinners at home!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor cozy flavors throughout the week without any hassle. Whether you want to enjoy it for lunch or dinner, it stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day!

Storing Leftovers

• Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Always label your containers with the date for easy reference.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warm.
• If using a microwave, heat in intervals, stirring in between for even warming.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes for this Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes)?

Absolutely! While canned tomatoes provide a convenient option, you can substitute with fresh tomatoes. Use about 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes and blanch them first to remove the skins for a fresher taste.

How can I make this Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup (Canned Tomatoes) vegan?

To make this soup vegan-friendly, simply substitute the heavy cream with unsweetened plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk. This will still give you a creamy texture while keeping it completely plant-based!

Can I add other vegetables to my tomato soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just make sure to adjust cooking times to ensure everything is tender.

How long does this creamy tomato soup last in the fridge?

This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container for optimal freshness!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup brings warmth and joy into your kitchen during those chilly days! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl that’s simple enough for any night of the week. Enjoy making it as much as I do, and don’t forget to share your thoughts or any variations you come up with. Happy cooking!