Easy 30-Minute Tomato Soup Recipe with 7 Ingredients

The simplest tomato soup recipe requires just 7 basic ingredients: canned tomatoes, onion, garlic, olive oil, vegetable broth, salt, and black pepper. This easy tomato soup recipe takes 30 minutes to prepare, requires only one pot, and delivers rich, creamy flavor without heavy cream. Perfect for beginners and weeknight dinners.

If you're searching for an easy tomato soup recipe that actually works, you've found it. This straightforward approach uses pantry staples to create a restaurant-quality soup without complicated techniques or specialty ingredients. Unlike many recipes that require roasting tomatoes or multiple pots, this method delivers exceptional flavor with minimal effort.

Why This Simple Tomato Soup Recipe Works

This easy tomato soup recipe for beginners succeeds because it focuses on technique rather than complexity. The secret lies in properly sautéing the aromatics and using high-quality canned tomatoes. Many home cooks make the mistake of rushing the onion and garlic step, but taking 5-7 minutes to soften them creates the flavor foundation that transforms basic ingredients into something extraordinary.

Ingredients for Simple Tomato Soup

Makes 4 servings | Total time: 30 minutes

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Canned whole tomatoes	2 (28-ounce) cans	San Marzano preferred for best flavor
Yellow onion	1 medium, diced	Yellow provides better sweetness than white
Garlic	3 cloves, minced	Fresh is essential for best flavor
Olive oil	2 tablespoons	Extra virgin for authentic flavor
Vegetable broth	1 cup	Low sodium to control seasoning
Salt	1 teaspoon	Adjust to taste at end
Black pepper	½ teaspoon	Freshly ground preferred

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Tomato Soup

1. Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until translucent and softened, but not browned. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute until fragrant. This foundational step builds the flavor base for your quick tomato soup with canned tomatoes.

2. Add Tomatoes and Simmer

Pour in the canned tomatoes with their juice. Use your hands to break up the whole tomatoes as you add them to the pot. Stir in vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows flavors to meld while reducing excess liquid.

3. Blend Until Smooth

Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender directly in the pot, blend the soup until completely smooth. If using a countertop blender, work in batches and be careful with the hot liquid (never fill more than halfway and hold the lid with a towel). This creates the creamy texture without adding dairy.

4. Final Seasoning and Serving

Return the pot to low heat and taste. Adjust salt and pepper as needed. For the best easy weeknight tomato soup, let it rest off heat for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.

Serving Suggestions for Your Homemade Tomato Soup

This simple tomato basil soup recipe pairs perfectly with:

• Freshly baked crusty bread or garlic toast
• A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley
• A drizzle of good quality olive oil
• Grated Parmesan cheese (add just before serving)
• A grilled cheese sandwich for the classic combination

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store cooled tomato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened in storage, add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Never boil reheated soup as this can affect the texture.

Customization Options for Your Simple Tomato Soup

Once you've mastered this basic recipe, try these easy variations:

• Creamy version: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or coconut milk at the end
• Roasted garlic: Replace raw garlic with 1 whole roasted garlic bulb
• Spicy kick: Add ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes with the tomatoes
• Herb infusion: Add 2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary during simmering
• Extra depth: Stir in 1 tablespoon tomato paste with the onions

Troubleshooting Common Tomato Soup Issues

Problem: Soup tastes too acidic
Solution: Add a small pinch of baking soda (⅛ teaspoon) or 1 teaspoon sugar to balance acidity

Problem: Soup is too thin
Solution: Simmer uncovered for 5-10 additional minutes to reduce, or blend in 2-3 cooked potatoes

Problem: Soup is too thick
Solution: Gradually add additional broth or water, ¼ cup at a time, until desired consistency

Problem: Flavor lacks depth
Solution: Add umami boosters like 1 teaspoon soy sauce or 2 anchovy fillets while sautéing onions