Okay, gather ’round, friend! Let’s talk about one of my all-time favorite comfort foods: Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup. I can practically smell it now, can’t you? The sweet roasted tomatoes, the fragrant herbs, the velvety smooth texture… oh, it’s just heaven in a bowl.
I remember the first time I made this Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup. I was newly married, trying to impress, and I thought, “How hard can tomato soup be?” Famous last words, right? I ended up with something that tasted like… well, watery ketchup. My husband politely ate a bowl, but I knew I had failed miserably. It was definitely not the best tomato bisque.
Determined to conquer this soup, I started experimenting. I tried roasting the tomatoes, adding different herbs, and playing around with the creaminess factor. There were definitely some mishaps along the way (one batch was so thick it could stand up on its own!), but I finally landed on a Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup recipe that my family begs for. It’s become a staple in our house, especially during the colder months. There’s just something so comforting about a warm bowl of this Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup and a grilled cheese sandwich.
This easy tomato bisque recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something quick and satisfying. I can whip up a batch while helping with homework and refereeing sibling squabbles – trust me, that’s saying something! And the best part? It’s even better the next day, so leftovers are a total win. I often double the batch so we have enough for lunches. It’s seriously the best homemade tomato soup.
Making this Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s about creating a memory. It’s about the aroma filling your kitchen, the smiles around the dinner table, and the feeling of warmth that spreads from your tummy to your soul. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking! I promise, even if you’ve had a “watery ketchup” moment like I did, you can make a truly incredible Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup. Are you ready to create some delicious magic? And while we are at it, if you like this recipe, you should really try my recipe for creamy spinach tomato tortellini.
Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (28 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth if you prefer)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a vegan option)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (or maple syrup)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Now, let’s talk ingredients. I always use good quality crushed tomatoes for my Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup. It makes a huge difference in the flavor. I’ve found that San Marzano tomatoes are the best, but they can be pricey. If you’re on a budget, store-brand crushed tomatoes work just fine – just add a little extra sugar to balance the acidity.
When making Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup, you can find dried basil and oregano in the spice aisle of any grocery store. I like to keep a big jar of each on hand because I use them in so many dishes. They’re essential for that classic Italian flavor.
Here’s a Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup trick I learned from my mom: add a pinch of baking soda to the soup while it’s simmering. It helps to neutralize the acidity of the tomatoes and makes the soup taste even sweeter. Don’t overdo it, though – just a pinch will do!
For busy families, you can totally use pre-minced garlic to save time. I won’t judge! I sometimes do that myself when I’m in a rush. Another shortcut is to buy pre-chopped onions, but I find that they don’t have as much flavor as freshly chopped ones.
To save money on Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup ingredients, consider buying canned tomatoes in bulk when they’re on sale. They have a long shelf life, so you can stock up and always have them on hand. Buying in bulk from warehouse stores can lead to significant savings over time, especially for non-perishable items like canned goods.
As for storage, if you have leftover chopped onions or garlic, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll last for a few days. And of course, any leftover Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup ingredients like canned tomatoes will be fine in the pantry. If you are looking for something to pair with this, might I suggest my recipe for creamy garlic butter lobster tails?
How to Make Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup – Step-by-Step
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Sautéing the aromatics is a crucial first step, building a flavor base for the entire soup. The softened onions contribute sweetness, while the garlic adds a pungent depth.
- Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine. Using both crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce provides a balance of texture and richness, with the broth acting as the liquid base that brings everything together.
- Season and Simmer: Add the dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour, to allow the flavors to meld together. Don’t worry if your Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup looks a little thin at this point – it will thicken up as it simmers. Simmering is the key to allowing the flavors to fully develop and integrate, resulting in a more complex and satisfying soup.
- Blend Until Smooth: Remove the pot from the heat and let the soup cool slightly. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until it is smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender, but be sure to blend the soup in batches and vent the lid to prevent it from exploding. I learned the hard way with Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup that blending hot liquids in a regular blender can be dangerous! An immersion blender offers convenience and safety, allowing you to blend directly in the pot without transferring hot liquids.
- Stir in the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) until the soup is rich and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might need to add a little more salt, pepper, or sugar to get it just right. Adding cream or coconut milk at the end enriches the soup, providing a luxurious texture and a subtle sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve hot with a grilled cheese sandwich, crusty bread, or a dollop of sour cream. Garnish with fresh basil not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor to complement the richness of the soup.
In my kitchen, Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup usually takes about 45 minutes from start to finish. While the Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup is cooking, I usually tidy up the kitchen, help the kids with their homework, or catch up on my favorite TV show. Multi-tasking is key, right?
Your Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup should smell like a warm, comforting blend of tomatoes, herbs, and garlic. It’s a smell that always makes me feel happy and cozy.
A family-tested Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup shortcut is to use roasted tomatoes from a jar. It saves time and adds a delicious smoky flavor to the soup. Just make sure to drain them well before adding them to the pot.
Another tip for making the best tomato bisque is to use a good quality vegetable broth. It adds depth of flavor to the soup. I like to use homemade broth, but store-bought is fine too. I also think it is essential that you let all of the seasoning blend well together. This is why I let it simmer for at least 20 minutes.
While you are at it, you should try this recipe vegan style! You can use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and it tastes just as good!
Serving Suggestions
The kids love our Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup when I serve it with mini grilled cheese sandwiches cut into fun shapes. I use cookie cutters to make stars, hearts, and dinosaurs – it makes lunchtime a little more exciting!
My go-to side dishes that pair with Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup are grilled cheese, crusty bread, and a simple salad. The grilled cheese is classic, the crusty bread is perfect for dipping, and the salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
This Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup is perfect for a cozy night in, a rainy day, or a casual get-together with friends. It’s also great for potlucks and soup swaps. I’ve even served it at fancy dinner parties in small demitasse cups as an appetizer.
For presentation, I like to swirl a little extra cream on top of the Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup and garnish with fresh basil leaves. You can also add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or croutons for extra flavor and texture.
If you have extra Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well, so you can make a big batch and have it on hand for future meals. Freezing in individual portions makes it easy to thaw just what you need for a quick lunch or dinner.
A seasonal Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup variation I’ve tried is adding roasted butternut squash in the fall. It adds a touch of sweetness and makes the soup even more comforting. I roasted the squash with the tomatoes!
My friends always ask for this Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup recipe when I make it for them. They’re always surprised at how easy it is to make and how delicious it tastes. If you like this recipe, you might like my recipe for creamy easy egg custard pie!
FAQs About Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup
Q: Can I make this Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup vegan?
A: Absolutely! Just substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or another plant-based milk alternative. It will still be deliciously creamy and flavorful. Check out this Best Vegan Tomato Bisque.
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can. You’ll need about 6-8 large fresh tomatoes, depending on their size. Roast them in the oven until they are soft and slightly caramelized, then peel and chop them before adding them to the soup. Roasting enhances their sweetness and concentrates the flavor, resulting in a richer bisque.
Q: What if my Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup is too acidic?
A: A pinch of baking soda can help to neutralize the acidity. Add it slowly and taste as you go. You can also add a little extra sugar to balance the flavors. Remember, a little goes a long way, so add gradually until you achieve the desired balance.
Q: Can I freeze this Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup?
A: Yes, Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup freezes very well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Q: What can I serve with this Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup?
A: Grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, a simple salad, or a dollop of sour cream are all great options. You could also add some croutons or parmesan cheese for extra flavor and texture. Consider offering a variety of toppings and sides to allow everyone to customize their meal.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup?
A: Of course! Roasted butternut squash, carrots, or bell peppers would all be delicious additions. Just add them to the pot along with the tomatoes and broth. Here is a link about How to make Non-Dairy Creamy Tomato Bisque (Vegan) – The Edgy ….
Q: My Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup is too thick. What should I do?
A: Add a little more broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. I have certainly had this issue before with my Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup. Start with a small amount and stir well to avoid over-thinning the soup.
Q: What if I don’t have an immersion blender?
A: You can use a regular blender, but be sure to blend the soup in batches and vent the lid to prevent it from exploding. Blending hot liquids in a regular blender can be dangerous. This is how to make the best tomato bisque for you! Always exercise caution when blending hot liquids.
You know what I do when my Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup is too sweet? I add a little bit of lemon juice to balance the flavors out. It works every time!
My Final Thoughts on Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup
This Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s a reminder of all the delicious meals I’ve shared with my family over the years. It’s a simple, comforting dish that always brings a smile to their faces. I hope this recipe for homemade tomato soup becomes a staple in your home as well.
My Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup Pro Tips:
- Roast your tomatoes: Roasting the tomatoes before adding them to the soup intensifies their flavor and adds a touch of sweetness.
- Don’t skip the sugar: A little bit of sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and makes the soup taste even better.
- Simmer, simmer, simmer: Simmering the soup for at least 20 minutes allows the flavors to meld together and creates a richer, more complex taste.
Here are some Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup variations I’ve tried with my family:
- Spicy Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
- Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup with Roasted Garlic: Roast a head of garlic and add it to the soup for a delicious garlicky flavor.
- Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup with Pesto: Swirl a spoonful of pesto into the soup before serving for a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor. I found this recipe for Tomato Bisque with Coconut Milk – Not Eating Out in New York and it sounded so good!
My youngest loves the plain Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup with grilled cheese, while my oldest prefers it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. I personally love it with a swirl of pesto!
I encourage you to make this Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup your own. Experiment with different herbs, spices, and vegetables to create a flavor that you love. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
I hope you enjoy making and eating this Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup as much as my family and I do. It’s a dish that’s sure to warm your heart and soul. And who knows, maybe it will even become a family favorite in your house too! So go on, give this easy tomato bisque recipe a try! I know you can make a truly incredible Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup.
Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup
Indulge in the comforting warmth of this creamy tomato bisque soup. This classic recipe is easy to make and perfect for a cozy meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Carefully transfer the soup to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree until smooth.
- Return the soup to the pot. Stir in heavy cream and heat through. Do not boil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Notes
For an extra layer of flavor, top with grated Parmesan cheese or a swirl of pesto.