Name: Creamy Tomato Soup with Garlic Croutons
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil or butter; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes or whole canned tomatoes; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 3 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 1/2 cup fresh basil (optional); Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1 tsp sugar (optional); 2 cups bread cubes (day-old or fresh); 2 cloves garlic, minced or 1 tsp garlic powder; 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for croutons); Chopped parsley or dried herbs (optional, for garnish)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is both simple and satisfying. It uses pantry staples, comes together quickly, and delivers a restaurant-quality flavor at home. The homemade garlic croutons are easy to prepare and add just the right touch of texture and flavor. It’s a great option for meal prep and can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Olive oil or butter
Onion
Garlic
Crushed tomatoes or canned whole tomatoes
Tomato paste
Vegetable broth or chicken broth
Heavy cream or half-and-half
Fresh basil (optional)
Salt
Pepper
Sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Bread cubes (day-old or fresh, for croutons)
Garlic cloves or garlic powder
Olive oil or melted butter (for croutons)
Parsley or dried herbs (optional for garnish)

Directions

In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic and sauté until translucent.
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to enhance the flavor.
Add crushed tomatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Add fresh basil if using, and blend the soup using an immersion blender or by transferring it to a blender in batches.
Return the blended soup to the pot, stir in cream, and season with salt, pepper, and sugar if needed. Simmer gently until heated through.
To make garlic croutons, toss bread cubes with olive oil or melted butter, minced garlic or garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes or until golden and crispy, turning once halfway through.
Serve the soup hot, topped with garlic croutons and optional chopped parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 4 servings and takes approximately 35 minutes total — 10 minutes for prep and 25 minutes for cooking.

Variations

Dairy-free version: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream.
Spicy tomato soup: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Roasted tomato soup: Roast fresh tomatoes with garlic and onion before blending for extra flavor.
Cheesy twist: Top with grated Parmesan or a swirl of cream cheese before serving.
Herb croutons: Add thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning to the crouton mixture.
Chunky version: Skip blending for a rustic, chunky tomato soup.

Storage/Reheating

Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to adjust the consistency.

Garlic croutons can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days. For the best texture, keep them separate and add only when serving.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, roast or simmer fresh tomatoes until soft, then blend. Use about 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes in place of canned.

How can I make this soup vegan?

Use vegetable broth and a dairy-free cream like coconut or oat cream. Skip the butter or use a vegan alternative for the croutons.

Can I freeze creamy tomato soup?

Yes, but freeze it before adding cream for the best texture. Add cream after reheating.

What type of bread is best for garlic croutons?

Day-old baguette, sourdough, or any crusty bread works well for crunchy croutons.

Is it okay to blend the soup with a regular blender?

Yes, just let the soup cool slightly and blend in batches to avoid pressure buildup.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can, but it will be thinner and less rich. Whole milk is a better option than low-fat varieties.

Can I add protein to this soup?

Yes, grilled chicken, white beans, or lentils can be added for extra protein.

How do I keep the croutons from getting soggy?

Add the croutons just before serving and store them separately from the soup.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.

What can I serve with this soup?

It pairs perfectly with grilled cheese sandwiches, a green salad, or a crusty loaf of bread.

Conclusion

Creamy Tomato Soup with Garlic Croutons is a warm, satisfying, and versatile dish that’s both comforting and elegant. With its rich flavor and crispy topping, it’s perfect for any time of year. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or serving a crowd, this soup is sure to be a hit.