Tomato Soup Calories: Exact Counts for 12 Varieties

One cup (245g) of standard canned tomato soup typically contains 170-200 calories, while homemade versions range from 90-150 calories per serving depending on ingredients. This comprehensive guide breaks down exact calorie counts across 12 common tomato soup varieties with practical nutrition insights for dietary planning.

Understanding the precise calorie content in tomato soup is essential for anyone tracking their nutritional intake, whether managing weight, following specific diets, or simply making informed food choices. The calorie count varies significantly based on preparation method, ingredients, and serving size - knowledge that transforms how you incorporate this popular comfort food into your eating plan.

Breaking Down Tomato Soup Calorie Counts

Tomato soup's calorie content depends primarily on three factors: preparation method, added ingredients, and serving size. Let's examine the data from the most reliable nutritional sources available.

Soup Type	Calories Per Cup (245g)	Key Ingredients Affecting Calories
Standard Canned (Regular)	170-200	Tomatoes, water, sugar, modified food starch
Canned (Low-Sodium)	150-180	Reduced salt, similar base ingredients
Canned (Cream of Tomato)	220-280	Cream, butter, higher fat content
Homemade (Basic Recipe)	90-120	Fresh tomatoes, minimal oil, no added sugar
Homemade (With Cream)	180-230	Fresh tomatoes, heavy cream, olive oil
Restaurant-Style	250-350	Butter, cream, larger serving sizes

This nutritional comparison, sourced from the USDA FoodData Central database, reveals why understanding preparation methods matters. Commercial tomato soups often contain added sugars and thickeners that increase calorie density, while homemade versions give you complete control over ingredients.

Why Calorie Counts Vary So Dramatically

The 100+ calorie difference between basic homemade tomato soup and restaurant versions stems from specific preparation choices:

• Fat content: Cream-based versions contain 2-3 times more calories than broth-based soups
• Serving size inflation: Restaurant portions often exceed standard 1-cup servings by 50-100%
• Added sugars: Many commercial brands include 5-10g of sugar per serving
• Thickening agents: Flour, cornstarch, and cream all contribute additional calories

Practical Nutrition Planning Tips

Armed with accurate calorie information, you can make tomato soup work for your dietary goals:

For Weight Management

Choose broth-based versions and prepare homemade soup using fresh tomatoes, vegetable broth, and minimal oil. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that tomato-based soups consumed before meals reduced overall calorie intake by 15% during the meal.

Reading Labels Effectively

When purchasing canned soup, check serving sizes carefully. Many "single-serve" containers actually contain 2+ servings. Look for products with:

• Less than 10g of sugar per serving
• Fat content under 3g per serving
• Sodium under 480mg per serving

Smart Homemade Recipe Adjustments

Reduce calories in homemade tomato soup by:

• Using water or low-sodium vegetable broth instead of cream
• Replacing sugar with a small amount of carrot for natural sweetness
• Adding texture with pureed white beans instead of flour for thickening
• Using just 1 teaspoon of olive oil per batch rather than multiple tablespoons

Nutritional Context: Is Tomato Soup Healthy?

Beyond calories, tomato soup offers significant nutritional benefits that make it a valuable addition to most diets. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tomato-based soups provide:

• Lycopene: A powerful antioxidant with demonstrated heart health benefits
• Vitamin C: One cup provides approximately 30% of daily recommended intake
• Potassium: Important for blood pressure regulation
• Fiber: Especially in versions containing tomato solids

The key is balancing these benefits with awareness of the calorie content based on preparation method. For most adults following a 2,000-calorie diet, a standard serving of tomato soup represents 8-10% of daily caloric needs - a reasonable portion that delivers valuable nutrients.

Common Questions About Tomato Soup Nutrition

Understanding these frequently asked questions helps you make informed decisions about incorporating tomato soup into your diet:

How many calories are in a cup of Campbell's tomato soup?

One cup (245g) of Campbell's Condensed Tomato Soup contains 170 calories. The chunky variety has 180 calories per cup, while their lower sodium version has 150 calories.

Is tomato soup good for weight loss?

Tomato soup can support weight loss when prepared as a broth-based version without cream or excessive oil. Its high water content and fiber promote satiety, helping reduce overall calorie intake. However, cream-based varieties are higher in calories and fat, making them less suitable for weight loss diets.

Does tomato soup have a lot of sugar?

Many commercial tomato soups contain 6-10 grams of sugar per serving, which can account for 15-25% of the recommended daily limit. Homemade versions typically have less sugar, with naturally occurring sugars from tomatoes totaling about 4-6 grams per cup. Reading nutrition labels helps identify added sugars versus natural tomato sugars.

How can I make lower calorie tomato soup at home?

Create lower calorie tomato soup by using fresh or canned tomatoes without added sugar, vegetable broth instead of cream, and minimal oil (1 teaspoon per batch). Add thickness with pureed white beans or a small amount of cooked rice instead of flour. Include aromatic vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery for flavor without significant calories.