Condensed Tomato Soup Recipe Easy and Delicious Ideas

Updated On: October 13, 2025

Condensed tomato soup is a classic pantry staple that brings warmth, comfort, and nostalgia with every spoonful. Whether you’re craving a quick lunch, a cozy dinner starter, or a versatile base for other recipes, making your own condensed tomato soup from scratch is simpler and healthier than you might think.

Unlike canned versions loaded with preservatives and excess sodium, this homemade recipe offers vibrant, fresh flavors with just a handful of wholesome ingredients. Plus, you can customize it to your taste with subtle herbs and spices, making it perfect for the whole family.

In this post, we’ll walk you through a detailed recipe to create rich, velvety condensed tomato soup at home. You’ll discover why this recipe is worth trying, the exact ingredients and equipment you need, easy-to-follow instructions, helpful tips, and even some tasty variations to keep things exciting.

Ready to impress yourself with this comforting classic? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This condensed tomato soup recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s made from fresh, whole ingredients—no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

You control the amount of salt and sugar, making it a healthier alternative to store-bought options.

The soup has a naturally sweet and tangy tomato base, enhanced by sautéed onions and garlic for depth of flavor. It’s incredibly versatile: enjoy it as a rich soup, a sauce base, or even a dip.

The thick, creamy texture mimics that of commercial condensed soups, but with a fresh, homemade taste that’s unbeatable.

Best of all, it’s easy to prepare and stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it a convenient option for meal prep. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cans of whole peeled tomatoes, 28 oz each)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup vegetable broth (or water)
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for a dairy-free option)
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil or 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Equipment

  • Large saucepan or pot
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Blender or immersion blender
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Fine mesh strainer (optional, for silky texture)
  • Storage containers for leftovers

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent and soft.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.
  3. Stir in the chopped fresh tomatoes (or canned tomatoes with their juices) and tomato paste. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
  4. Add sugar, salt, pepper, dried basil, and oregano. Stir to incorporate the spices evenly.
  5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30-40 minutes. This allows the soup to reduce and thicken.
  6. After simmering, remove the pot from heat. Use a blender or immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. For an extra silky texture, strain the soup through a fine mesh strainer back into the pot.
  7. Return the smooth soup to low heat and stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream. Warm through but do not boil, to prevent curdling.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
  9. Let the soup cool slightly before serving or storing in airtight containers.

Tips & Variations

“For a richer flavor, roast your fresh tomatoes and garlic before adding them to the pot. This adds a subtle smoky sweetness that deepens the soup’s profile.”

  • Use fresh herbs like basil and oregano for a bright, fresh taste or dried herbs for convenience.
  • For a vegan or dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream.
  • To add a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika during the cooking process.
  • Make it chunkier by pureeing only half the soup and leaving the rest with tomato chunks for texture variation.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze portions for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (1 cup)
Calories 110
Fat 5g
Saturated Fat 1.5g
Carbohydrates 14g
Fiber 3g
Sugar 9g
Protein 2g
Sodium 450mg

Serving Suggestions

This condensed tomato soup is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a warming appetizer with a grilled cheese sandwich for the perfect comfort meal.

You can also use it as a flavorful base for casseroles or pasta sauces. Pour it over rice or roasted vegetables for a quick dinner boost.

For a fun twist, add a swirl of pesto or a sprinkle of fresh parmesan cheese on top. It’s also delicious when paired with fresh breadsticks or a crisp green salad.

Looking for more delicious recipes to complement your homemade tomato soup? Try our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious, explore hearty options with Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide, or enjoy a refreshing twist with A Cold Vegetable Soup Recipe to Refresh Your Summer Meals.

Conclusion

Making your own condensed tomato soup allows you to enjoy a timeless classic with a fresh and healthy twist. This recipe is straightforward, requires simple ingredients, and delivers a rich, comforting flavor that rivals any canned soup.

It’s perfect for meal prep, easy to customize, and sure to please a crowd.

With the tips and variations provided, you can tailor this soup to fit your dietary preferences or get creative with new flavor combinations. Whether you’re serving it as a standalone dish or using it as a base for other recipes, homemade condensed tomato soup is a versatile kitchen essential.

Give it a try and savor the delicious difference that fresh, homemade cooking makes!

📖 Recipe Card: Condensed Tomato Soup

Description: A rich and creamy condensed tomato soup perfect for quick meals or as a base for other recipes. Easy to make with simple ingredients and minimal cooking time.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups tomato puree
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

Instructions

  1. Melt butter in a pot over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and garlic; sauté until soft.
  3. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
  4. Gradually whisk in tomato puree and vegetable broth.
  5. Add sugar, salt, pepper, and basil; bring to a simmer.
  6. Cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream.
  8. Blend with an immersion blender until smooth.
  9. Serve warm or use as a base for other recipes.

Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 15 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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