Oh, Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup… just the name itself warms me right up! I remember the first time I ever made it. It was a blustery autumn evening, the kind where the wind howls and the rain taps insistently against the windows. My kids, bless their hearts, were sniffly and restless. I needed something comforting, something… magical. I had a bunch of tomatoes that were just begging to be used and thought, why not try a creamy tomato bisque soup? Little did I know, that night would birth a family tradition.
My first attempt at Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup wasn’t perfect, mind you. I accidentally let the garlic burn (the entire house reeked for days!) and added a touch too much cream. But even with my blunders, the base flavor was undeniable. That slightly sweet, slightly tangy, utterly comforting taste of Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup filled the kitchen.
Even my youngest, who was the pickiest eater, devoured a bowl, declaring it “sunshine in a bowl!”. From that day on, Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup became a regular in our rotation. It’s my go-to when someone’s feeling under the weather, a chilly evening treat, or just when we need a hug in a bowl.
Over the years, I’ve tweaked and perfected the recipe, learning a few tricks along the way. Now, I can whip up a batch of Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup even on the busiest weeknight. Honestly, the best thing about Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup is how incredibly easy it is to make. It’s so simple, and yet so incredibly satisfying.
So, pull up a chair, grab a spoon, and let me share my family’s favorite Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup recipe with you. I promise, even if you burn the garlic a little (we’ve all been there!), it’ll still be delicious.
INGREDIENTS:
Here’s what you’ll need to make this luscious Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup. I always try to use the best quality canned tomatoes I can find for my Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup; they really make a difference. I also like to use fresh basil; the aroma alone is worth it!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 (28 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth (chicken broth works too!)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (balances the acidity)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick!)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
A little tip about the tomatoes for this Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup: I’ve found that using a combination of crushed tomatoes and tomato paste really enhances the flavor. The tomato paste adds a depth that you just can’t get with crushed tomatoes alone.
Also, don’t skimp on the cream! It’s what makes this Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup so incredibly decadent. I’ve tried using half-and-half before, but it just doesn’t have the same richness. If you want to keep your grocery bill down, remember to buy canned tomatoes in bulk. The FDA has some helpful information about tomatoes.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even roast your own tomatoes for this Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup. Roasting the tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness, making the Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup even more flavorful. It takes a little extra time, but the result is totally worth it.
How to Make – Step by Step
Alright, let’s get cooking! This Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup recipe is so easy, even a beginner can nail it. Trust me, if I can do it, you can too! Just follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a warm bowl of comfort in no time.
Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent. Be careful not to burn the garlic! As I mentioned earlier, the burnt garlic will stink up your kitchen. Pro tip: Keep the heat low and stir frequently. Burnt garlic is the enemy of delicious Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup!
The key to a good soup base lies in gently coaxing the flavors out of the aromatics. Sautéing the garlic and onions allows their sweetness to develop, creating a foundation upon which the other flavors can build. If you’re feeling fancy, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
Add the Tomatoes and Broth:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir in the dried basil, sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
This is where the magic starts to happen! The aroma of tomatoes and basil will fill your kitchen, making you feel like a culinary genius. This step is crucial for developing the flavors of your Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup.
Using high-quality crushed tomatoes can truly elevate the final dish. Look for canned tomatoes that are rich in color and have a naturally sweet aroma. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of broth; a robust chicken broth can add depth, while a lighter vegetable broth keeps the soup vegetarian.
Simmer:
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for at least 20 minutes. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.
While the Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup is simmering, I usually take the time to tidy up the kitchen or catch up on a book. It’s a great way to relax while dinner practically cooks itself. Remember, good food takes time.
Simmering is where the magic truly happens. As the soup gently bubbles away, the flavors deepen and harmonize, creating a symphony of taste that will tantalize your taste buds. Resist the urge to rush this step; the longer the soup simmers, the more flavorful it will become.
Blend:
Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth and creamy. Be very careful when blending hot liquids!
This step is essential for achieving that silky-smooth texture that defines a good bisque. If you’re using a regular blender, make sure to vent the lid to prevent pressure buildup. Also, this Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is great if you are looking for another recipe!
Blending the soup transforms it from a chunky mixture into a velvety smooth bisque. If using a regular blender, remember to remove the center piece of the lid and cover with a towel to allow steam to escape. An immersion blender offers a convenient alternative, allowing you to blend the soup directly in the pot.
Stir in the Cream:
Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream. Heat gently over low heat until warmed through. Do not boil! Season with salt and pepper to taste.
The addition of heavy cream is what transforms this simple tomato soup into a luxurious bisque. It adds richness and depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. Make sure to heat the soup gently after adding the cream to prevent it from curdling. You can always add more cream if you are craving more.Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup.
The heavy cream is the crowning glory of this bisque, adding a touch of indulgence and richness that elevates it to another level. Be sure to heat the soup gently after adding the cream to prevent it from curdling. For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half, but the heavy cream truly delivers the most decadent results.
Garnish and Serve:
Ladle the Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches.
There you have it! A bowl of homemade comfort that’s perfect for any occasion. I like to serve this Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch of elegance.
Presentation is key when serving this elegant bisque. A sprinkle of fresh basil, a swirl of cream, or a drizzle of olive oil can transform a simple bowl of soup into a culinary masterpiece. Pair it with your favorite sides, such as crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a light salad, for a complete and satisfying meal.
SERVING & ENJOYING:
Serving this Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup is almost as fun as making it! I love seeing the look on my family’s faces when I bring a steaming bowl to the table. My husband likes to dip grilled cheese sandwiches in his, while my daughter prefers a simple side of crusty bread.
One of my favorite pairings for this Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup is a classic grilled cheese sandwich. The warm, melty cheese complements the creamy soup perfectly. For a fun twist, try using different types of cheese or adding a slice of tomato to the sandwich.
I often make this Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup for special occasions, like birthdays or holidays. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s always a hit. I remember one Thanksgiving when I made a huge batch of this Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup and served it as an appetizer. Everyone raved about it! If you are looking for another idea check out this Creamy Spinach Tomato Tortellini.
For presentation, I like to drizzle a little olive oil over the soup and garnish with fresh basil leaves. It adds a pop of color and elevates the dish. I’ve also seen people use a swirl of cream or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for garnish.
If you have any leftover Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup, don’t worry! It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. You can even freeze it for longer storage.
FAQs:
I’ve been making this Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup for years, and I’ve gotten a lot of questions about it. Here are some of the most common ones:
Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! This Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup is naturally vegetarian as long as you use vegetable broth. Just double-check the ingredients of your broth to make sure it doesn’t contain any animal products.
Q: Can I make this soup vegan?
A: Yes, you can! Simply substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative, like cashew cream or coconut cream. Just be aware that the flavor and texture may be slightly different.
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can! You’ll need about 6-8 medium-sized fresh tomatoes. Roasting them beforehand will enhance their flavor. Just make sure to peel and seed them before adding them to the soup.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
A: Of course! Feel free to experiment with adding other vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers. Just sauté them along with the onion and garlic.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can! This Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup actually tastes better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat it gently before serving.
Q: What can I serve with this soup?
A: This Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup pairs well with a variety of sides, such as grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, salads, or even a simple green salad. It’s also delicious with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, you can! Just let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Food Safety guidelines must be followed when preparing foods.
CLOSING:
This Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a memory. It’s a reminder of cozy evenings, comforting moments, and the simple joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. It’s one of the first recipes I made as a mom. It will always be special to me.
My Personal Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup Tips:
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices. A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper can add a unique twist to this soup.
- If you want a thicker soup, add a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour to the sautéed onions and garlic. This will help to thicken the soup as it simmers.
- For a smoother soup, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve after blending. This will remove any remaining bits of tomato skin or seeds.
Over the years, I’ve tried countless variations of this Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup. I’ve added roasted red peppers, swapped out the basil for thyme, and even experimented with different types of cream. My husband loves it with a swirl of pesto, while my daughter prefers a sprinkle of croutons.
The beauty of this Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup recipe is that it’s so versatile. Feel free to make it your own, adding your favorite ingredients and adjusting the flavors to suit your taste. The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process. I think the flavors in this tomato soup recipe are immaculate, a must try.
I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup as much as I do. It’s a simple, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. So, go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get cooking! And remember, even if you make a mistake or two, it’ll still be delicious.
Remember, cooking is about more than just following a recipe. It’s about creating something special, something that you can share with the people you love. So, embrace the process, have fun, and don’t be afraid to get a little messy. This Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup is more than just a meal, it’s therapy in a bowl!
Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this creamy tomato bisque soup. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a cozy night in and is sure to warm you from the inside out.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes, undrained
- 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 (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Remove from heat and carefully blend the soup using an immersion blender until smooth. Alternatively, let cool slightly and blend in batches in a regular blender.
- Return the soup to the pot and stir in heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Heat through gently, being careful not to boil.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Notes
For an extra rich flavor, roast the tomatoes before adding them to the soup. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a swirl of pesto on top.