If you are craving something comforting, rich, and bursting with deep tomato flavor, this Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup Recipe is an absolute gem to add to your rotation. It’s a luscious bowl of hearty, creamy goodness where tender tomato chunks swim in a velvety broth that’s both filling and soul-soothing. Whether you want a satisfying lunch or a warming dinner, this recipe hits that perfect balance between creamy indulgence and satisfying texture, making it feel like a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this soup lies in its simplicity; the ingredients are everyday staples that come together seamlessly to create an unforgettable taste. Each plays a key role, whether it’s building a fragrant base, adding richness, or delivering the signature chunky tomato pop that makes this dish stand out.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Provides a sweet and savory foundation with a subtle caramelized flavor once cooked.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps sauté the onion gently while adding a fruity, rich undertone.
- 1 tsp kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps draw moisture from the onion.
- 2 tbsp butter: Introduces a creamy, silky richness that complements the heavy cream later on.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds an aromatic punch that balances the sweetness with a bit of garlicky warmth.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Brings an earthy, herbaceous note reminiscent of Mediterranean comfort food.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Makes the soup wonderfully creamy without overpowering the tomatoes’ brightness.
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes (with onion and garlic): The star ingredient—packed with juicy, flavorful chunks that give the soup its name and texture.
- 3-4 tbsp tomato paste (adjust to taste): Intensifies the tomato flavor, adding depth and a slight tangy sweetness.
How to Make Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Start by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion along with the kosher salt, stirring now and then to prevent burning. This process takes about 10 to 15 minutes and is crucial—it unlocks the onions’ natural sweetness and creates a rich base full of flavor that will make your soup unforgettable.
Step 2: Add Butter, Garlic, and Oregano
Once those onions are gloriously caramelized, stir in the butter, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Cook everything together for about a minute until the garlic becomes fragrant and the butter melts into the mix, infusing the soup with that lovely buttery aroma and herbaceous kick.
Step 3: Incorporate the Cream
Now, slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring consistently. This gentle addition ensures the cream blends smoothly without curdling, turning your base into a luxurious, silky canvas ready for the tomatoes.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Tomato Paste
Stir in the canned diced tomatoes along with the tomato paste. Let the soup simmer on medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes to allow the flavors to mingle and the soup to thicken just enough, while still keeping those delightful chunks of tomatoes intact. This slow simmer is where the magic happens, developing layers of deep, fresh tomato flavor.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Give your soup a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed – a little extra salt or tomato paste can make a big difference. It’s best served warm with some crusty bread or a gooey grilled cheese sandwich to scoop up every last bit.
Step 6: Optional Texture Twist
If you prefer a silky soup with just a touch of texture, try blending part of it with an immersion blender or in batches. Leave some chunks whole to keep that beautiful contrast between creamy smoothness and hearty tomato pieces.
How to Serve Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your bowl by sprinkling fresh chopped basil or parsley right before serving for a pop of color and freshness. A drizzle of olive oil or a swirl of extra heavy cream can add visual appeal and extra creaminess. For a bit of crunch, toasted pine nuts or crispy croutons make excellent toppings that complement the soup’s silky texture perfectly.
Side Dishes
Nothing pairs better with this creamy chunky tomato soup than a perfectly toasted grilled cheese sandwich. The melty cheese and crisp bread are tailor-made for dunking. If you want to keep things lighter, serve with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a rustic garlic bread to soak up every comforting spoonful.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl—both fun and functional. Alternatively, layer the soup with fresh mozzarella and basil in clear glass mugs to showcase the gorgeous colors. You could even turn it into a starter by serving smaller portions garnished with mini grilled cheese bites on skewers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve its creamy texture and robust flavors. Before reheating, give it a gentle stir to reincorporate any separated cream.
Freezing
You can freeze the Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup Recipe for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze without garnishes and leave out any dairy if you prefer to add cream fresh after thawing. Thaw slowly in the fridge overnight for optimal texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
Reheat your soup gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to keep the cream from breaking. Adding a splash of cream or broth while reheating can freshen up the soup and restore its luscious consistency.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes can work wonderfully, especially if they’re ripe and flavorful. You’ll want to peel and chop them before cooking, and you might need to simmer a little longer to achieve the right texture and richness.
Is there a non-dairy alternative for the heavy cream?
Yes, you can use coconut cream or cashew cream as a substitute. These add creaminess while keeping things dairy-free, although the flavor will be slightly different but still delicious and satisfying.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the garlic and oregano step, or finish with a splash of hot sauce to give the soup a lovely warm kick without overpowering the tomato flavor.
Can this soup be made in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Follow the initial caramelization steps on the stove, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, adding cream near the end to ensure it stays smooth and rich.
What’s the best way to keep the soup chunky without it being too thick?
Simmer the soup just long enough for flavors to meld but not so long that the tomatoes completely break down. Blending only a portion of the soup, as suggested, is a great method to maintain a perfect balance of creamy and chunky textures.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about a bowl of this Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup Recipe that feels as cozy as your favorite sweater. It’s an easy-to-make, comforting dish that brings a smile with every spoonful. I hope you give it a try soon and discover how this humble soup can brighten your day and nourish your soul all at once.
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Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Chunky Tomato Soup combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions, savory garlic, and tangy tomatoes with a smooth, velvety cream base. Slow-simmered to perfection, it balances a chunky texture with creamy richness, making it a comforting and hearty meal perfect for any season.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes (with onion and garlic)
- 3–4 tbsp tomato paste (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: In a large pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and kosher salt, stirring occasionally, and cook until lightly caramelized, about 10-15 minutes. This step develops the soup’s foundational sweetness and deep flavor.
- Add Butter, Garlic, and Oregano: Stir in the butter, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant and the butter is melted, enhancing the aromatic profile of the soup.
- Pour in Heavy Cream: Slowly add the heavy cream to the pot while stirring continuously. This creates the creamy base that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Add Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: Add the canned diced tomatoes (with onion and garlic) and tomato paste. Stir well to combine all ingredients, then let the soup simmer over medium heat for 15-20 minutes. This allows the soup to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the creamy chunky tomato soup warm, ideally accompanied by crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a delicious comfort meal.
- Optional Blending: For a smoother texture while still retaining some chunky tomato pieces, optionally blend part of the soup using an immersion blender or transfer a portion to a blender and then return it to the pot.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of tomato paste to control the soup’s thickness and intensity.
- Slow caramelizing of onions is key to developing a rich, sweet flavor.
- Use heavy cream for the best creamy texture; lighter creams will alter the richness.
- Partially blending the soup is optional based on your preferred texture.
- Serve with grilled cheese or crusty bread to complete the meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
