Name: Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large yellow onion, diced; 3 medium carrots, diced; 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated; 4 tablespoons tomato paste; Optional: up to 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1 cup fresh basil leaves and tender stems; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or generous pinch dried thyme); Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to season; One 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes; 2 cups vegetable stock or broth; 2 cups heavy cream, milk, or unsweetened plant milk of choice (almond, oat milk, etc.)

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If you’re craving a dish that warms you from the inside out, this Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It takes humble pantry staples like canned tomatoes and tomato paste, transforming them into a luscious, velvety soup that tastes like sunshine on a chilly day. The fresh herbs and a splash of cream create a richness that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make, making it a perfect go-to comfort food when the weather outside is frightful. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become your favorite cozy meal to whip up any time the temperature drops.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white pot sits on a white marbled surface, filled with three layers of diced vegetables and spices, starting with a base of translucent chopped onions and bright orange carrots spread evenly around the pot. At the center, there is a bright red dollop of thick tomato paste, topped with finely chopped pale yellow garlic and sprinkled with dark red chili flakes and black pepper. The colors contrast sharply, with the white pot's smooth interior framing the vibrant mix of ingredients. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and vibrant color. These are staples that probably already live in your kitchen, which means making this soothing soup is not only easy but also incredibly satisfying.

3 tablespoons olive oil: For creating a silky base and gently roasting the vegetables to enhance sweetness.
1 large yellow onion, diced: Adds a subtle natural sweetness and depth.
3 medium carrots, diced: Contributes natural sweetness and body to the soup without overpowering it.
4 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated: Infuses a fragrant warmth that wakes up every other ingredient.
4 tablespoons tomato paste: Boosts the tomato flavor with a rich, concentrated punch and adds beautiful color.
Optional: up to 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: For a gentle heat that balances the soup’s creaminess.
1 cup fresh basil leaves and tender stems: Brings fresh herbal notes that brighten the dish perfectly.
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or generous pinch dried thyme): Adds a subtle earthiness that complements the tomatoes.
One 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes: The heart and soul of the soup, delivering a robust tomato flavor.
2 cups vegetable stock or broth: Provides depth and a savory base without overpowering the tomatoes.
2 cups heavy cream, milk, or unsweetened plant milk of choice: Creates that luxuriously creamy texture and mellows acidity.
Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to season: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the soup’s flavors.

How to Make Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Cook the aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until shimmering. Add diced onion and carrots, seasoning with kosher salt and black pepper to bring out their sweetness. Stir occasionally, letting them soften over about 5 to 6 minutes. Then, stir in finely chopped garlic, tomato paste, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Cook everything together for another 1 to 2 minutes until the tomato paste deepens in color and the air fills with garlic’s wonderful aroma.

Step 2: Build and simmer

Next, pour in the fresh basil, thyme, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine thoroughly. Bring this vibrant mixture to a boil before reducing it to a gentle simmer. Partially cover the pot and let it bubble away for around 15 minutes until all the vegetables are perfectly tender. This simmering melds the flavors, making the soup taste rich and well-rounded.

Step 3: Blend

Once the vegetables are soft and the broth is infused with tomato goodness, it’s time to blend the soup into that signature creamy texture. Carefully transfer the soup to a stand blender in batches—filling it no more than two-thirds each time for safety. Blend until smooth and velvety, covering the lid vent with a kitchen towel to prevent splatters. No blender? No problem! An immersion blender right in the pot works just as beautifully.

Step 4: Finish the creamy tomato soup

Return the silky blended soup to the pot and gently stir in your choice of cream, milk, or plant-based milk. Warm it on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure everything melds together perfectly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. This final step enriches the soup, giving it that comforting, creamy body that makes this Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe so irresistible.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle your finished soup into bowls and dress it up with cracked black pepper, a few red pepper flakes for heat, and a scattering of fresh basil leaves. Nothing beats a bowl of this soup paired with crunchy crusty bread or a gooey mozzarella grilled cheese sandwich for dipping. You’re in for a meal that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.

How to Serve Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe

The image shows a white pot filled with smooth bright orange soup, sprinkled with black pepper and small red chili flakes, and topped with scattered fresh green basil leaves floating on the surface. A metal ladle with a wooden handle rests inside the soup, dipping slightly with part of the orange soup in it. The pot sits on a white marbled surface with a light blue striped cloth, a silver spoon, some loose basil leaves, and a wooden board with a small bowl of red chili flakes nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your soup’s presentation and flavor, try topping it with fresh basil leaves that add a pop of vibrant green color and brightness. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper provides a subtle spice that wakes up your palate. For those who love a little heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick without overshadowing the creamy tomato base.

Side Dishes

The perfect side will round out this cozy meal beautifully. Crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich with melted mozzarella or cheddar are classics for a reason—they complement the soup’s rich texture and create a satisfying contrast of crispiness and gooey melts. For a lighter option, a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a peppery freshness that balances the creaminess perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests or family, try serving the soup in small, elegant cups as a starter or ladle it into mini bread bowls for a rustic, fun presentation. Drizzle with a swirl of cream or a pesto dollop for a colorful touch that makes every serving look restaurant-quality. Garnish with edible flowers like nasturtiums for an unexpected pop of cheerfulness in the dead of winter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent it from absorbing other flavors. Before refrigerating, allow the soup to cool to room temperature to avoid condensation and maintain the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

This soup freezes wonderfully, making it an ideal recipe for batch cooking. Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. Use within 2-3 months for the best quality. When you’re ready for a comforting meal, thaw it overnight in the fridge to keep that creamy consistency intact.

Reheating

Gently reheat your soup on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching and keep the texture smooth. If the soup thickens while reheating, stir in a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up. Avoid boiling once the cream is added, as that can cause curdling.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Fresh tomatoes can be used, but canned crushed tomatoes provide consistent flavor and texture, especially in winter when fresh tomatoes aren’t at their peak. If you use fresh, peel and cook them down thoroughly to deepen the flavor.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Heavy cream can be replaced with milk or unsweetened plant-based milks such as almond or oat milk. They still provide creaminess though the soup will be lighter. Coconut milk is another option, but it adds a subtle coconut flavor.

Is this soup gluten free?

Yes, this Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe is naturally gluten free as long as your vegetable stock and other ingredients are certified gluten free. It’s a safe and cozy choice for those avoiding gluten.

How spicy is the soup with crushed red pepper flakes?

The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth rather than overwhelming heat. You can always adjust the amount or leave them out completely if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can start by sautéing the aromatics on the stove, then transfer everything to the slow cooker to simmer for 3-4 hours on low until the vegetables are tender before blending and finishing with cream.

Final Thoughts

This Middle-of-Winter Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe is the kind of dish that feels like a culinary embrace on a cold day. It’s simple to make, uses ingredients you likely have on hand, and comes together quickly for a satisfying and nourishing meal. Whether you’re cozying up alone with a book or sharing it with loved ones, this soup will bring warmth and comfort every single time. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own winter favorite!