Creamy Tomato Soup with Cheesy Croutons

Creamy Tomato Soup with Cheesy Croutons is the ultimate comfort dish that blends rich, velvety tomato flavor with the indulgent crunch of golden, cheesy bread cubes. This classic recipe is perfect for chilly days or cozy evenings and offers a perfect balance of tangy, savory, and creamy notes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy tomato soup is smooth, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, while the cheesy croutons bring a delightful crunch and richness. It’s a simple recipe that uses pantry staples but delivers gourmet results. Whether you’re serving it as a light meal or pairing it with a salad or sandwich, this soup is a reliable crowd-pleaser.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Olive oil

• Yellow onion, chopped

• Garlic cloves, minced

• Canned whole tomatoes

• Tomato paste

• Vegetable broth

• Heavy cream

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

For the Cheesy Croutons

• Baguette or crusty bread, cubed

• Olive oil or melted butter

• Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

• Garlic powder

• Dried oregano or Italian seasoning

directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.

2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.

3. Add canned tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.

4. Let the mixture simmer for 15–20 minutes to develop flavor.

5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, blend in batches in a regular blender.

6. Stir in heavy cream, salt, pepper, and a small amount of sugar if desired. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

7. For the croutons: toss bread cubes in olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle with garlic powder and seasoning, then top with shredded cheese.

8. Toast in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

9. Ladle the soup into bowls, top with cheesy croutons, and garnish with fresh basil if using.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free version.

• Add red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.

• Stir in a spoonful of pesto for an herby boost.

• Replace the canned tomatoes with fresh, roasted tomatoes for a more intense flavor.

• Use gluten-free bread for the croutons to make the recipe gluten-free.

storage/reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The croutons should be stored separately in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

To reheat the soup, warm it gently in a saucepan over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until hot. Reheat croutons in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

FAQs

How can I make this soup vegan?

Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream and use vegan cheese or omit the cheese for the croutons.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can roast fresh tomatoes and blend them for a deeper flavor, though canned tomatoes provide convenience and consistent taste.

How do I make the soup thicker?

You can reduce the soup further by simmering longer, or add more tomato paste or a small cooked potato to blend in.

What type of bread is best for croutons?

A crusty bread like a baguette or sourdough works best to hold up under the cheese and heat.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, freeze the soup without the cream and add it after reheating. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

How do I prevent the croutons from getting soggy?

Add croutons just before serving and ensure they are thoroughly crisped in the oven.

Is it necessary to blend the soup?

Blending gives a smooth texture, but you can leave it chunky if preferred for a rustic version.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, carrots or bell peppers can be added during the sautéing step for extra flavor and nutrients.

What herbs go well with tomato soup?

Basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary complement tomato soup beautifully.

How do I balance the acidity of the tomatoes?

Adding a small amount of sugar or cream helps to mellow the acidic notes of the tomatoes.

Conclusion

Creamy Tomato Soup with Cheesy Croutons is a timeless and heartwarming dish that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly comforting. Perfect for weeknight dinners or lunch gatherings, this recipe delivers a rich depth of flavor with minimal ingredients. With its cozy appeal and satisfying taste, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your home kitchen

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