20 Minute Creamy Tomato Soup

Warm up your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of homemade 20 Minute Creamy Tomato Soup! If you’re anything like me, there are days when only a cozy, creamy tomato soup will do. This recipe makes it so easy! Within just 20 minutes, you can have a bowl of pure comfort food ready to enjoy. It’s like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a chilly day. This soup is especially handy on those busy evenings when you just want something quick yet satisfying.

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You’ll love how simple it is to cook with wholesome ingredients, plus the flavors are exquisite. Fresh garlic and aromatic basil harmonize beautifully, bringing depth to every spoonful. This isn’t just any soup; it’s an elevated dish that’s both hearty and delicious. Plus, the best part? It pairs perfectly with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich, creating a nostalgic meal that warms your heart. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to a rich and delectable creamy tomato soup lies in its simplicity and speed. Using wholesome ingredients allows the natural flavors of the tomatoes to shine through while maintaining a creamy texture that’s comforting and satisfying. The inclusion of garlic and basil provides a depth of flavor, elevating it from a basic soup to a café delicacy. Each ingredient plays a role in creating a bowl of happiness.

Why You’ll Love This 20 Minute Creamy Tomato Soup

Imagine a bowl of warm, velvety tomato soup ready in just 20 minutes! Perfect for those busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this recipe embodies comfort food at its finest. Its quick prep time means you can easily whip it up after a long day, making it a go-to for busy cooks and families alike. Plus, it pairs perfectly with grilled cheese, enhancing the delightful experience.

Ingredients

• ¼ cup salted butter
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon basil pesto
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2½ cups milk
• 1 can crushed tomatoes with Italian herbs (28 oz or 798 ml)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1-2 tablespoons granulated sugar (to taste)
• Fresh basil, for serving

How to Make 20 Minute Creamy Tomato Soup

Melt the Butter

To start, grab a large soup pot and melt the salted butter over medium-low heat. It will create a lovely buttery base for the rest of the ingredients to shine.

Sauté the Flavor Base

Once the butter is melted, toss in the tomato paste, minced garlic, salt, basil pesto, dried basil, and pepper. As you sauté these aromatics, cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. You’ll love how the kitchen fills with those savory scents!

Whisk in the Flour

Next, gradually whisk in the all-purpose flour until no white remains visible. This step is essential for thickening your soup into that luscious creamy texture.

Combine Milk and Roux

Slowly add the milk while whisking continuously to ensure everything combines beautifully. Gradually increase the heat to medium, and keep stirring.

Bring to a Simmer

Now, stir frequently as you cook until the mixture thickens to your desired consistency. This is the point where the magic starts to happen!

Add Tomatoes and Parmesan

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing everything until fully combined and heated through. At this stage, you’ll see your soup turn into a beautiful, creamy mixture.

Adjust Sweetness

Once it’s all blended, give the soup a taste. If you find it needs balancing, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of granulated sugar incrementally to cut through the acidity. Adjust it to your preference and taste—this step is key for achieving that comforting flavor!

Serve with Fresh Basil

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil before serving. This little touch adds freshness that brightens the whole dish!

Serving Suggestions

This creamy tomato soup shines when paired with classic grilled cheese sandwiches or a fresh side salad. For an added crunch, serve with homemade croutons or a sprinkle of crispy bacon. These combinations make for a delightful meal that can please anyone at the table.

Tips for Success

• Use whole, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor if you’re not using canned. Fresh tomatoes add a lovely sweetness to the soup.
• Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more or less milk, depending on your liking. A thicker soup can feel even cozier!
• For a delightful twist, blend the soup for a smoother texture before serving. A quick pulse in a blender or using an immersion blender can do the trick.

Variations

• Spicy Tomato Soup: Want a bit of heat? Add red pepper flakes or chopped fresh jalapeños during the sauté stage.
• Vegan Version: Substitute the butter with olive oil and swap the milk for coconut or almond milk. You can skip the cheese to keep it plant-based.
• Herbed Tomato Soup: Add fresh herbs like thyme or oregano along with the basil to create a unique flavor profile.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk to adjust its creamy texture if necessary. If you want to save it for later, it can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just remember to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh tomatoes! About 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes should work well for this recipe.

2. How can I make this soup spicier?
Simply add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when you sauté the garlic and spices!

3. Can this soup be made ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare it a day in advance and then reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

4. What can I serve with tomato soup?
Grilled cheese sandwiches, croutons, or a crisp salad are all fantastic pairings that enhance this classic dish.

5. How can I thicken my soup further?
Blend a portion of the soup to create a creamier consistency. Alternatively, you can add more flour—but make sure to cook it thoroughly to avoid a raw taste.

This 20 Minute Creamy Tomato Soup is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s quick, easy, and filled with the flavors of home. Perfect for any occasion where you crave warmth and comfort, this recipe consistently delivers satisfaction and joy with every warm spoonful. Now, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the experience of creating a delicious meal as much as you savor its luscious flavors!

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