Sunday Slow Simmered Tomato Soup

Name: Sunday Slow Simmered Tomato Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 (15-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity); Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I've always cherished Sundays as a perfect day for cozy meals, and there's nothing quite like a bowl of slow-simmered tomato soup to warm the soul. The rich aroma of tomatoes and herbs bubbling on the stove fills my kitchen with comfort. I love how this recipe uses simple ingredients, letting the natural flavors shine. After years of tweaking, I've found that low and slow is truly the way to go for depth and taste. Perfectly paired with a grilled cheese sandwich, this soup is my go-to for a comforting family meal.

Created by

Sophia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:25:12.872Z

Every Sunday, as I prepare this tomato soup, I reflect on the simple joys of life. There's something so satisfying about taking fresh tomatoes and transforming them into a warm, vibrant dish. I’ve experimented with various herbs over the years, but I've found that a combination of basil and thyme truly elevates the flavor of the soup, making it taste like a warm hug in a bowl.

Cooking this soup slowly allows all the ingredients to meld together beautifully. I recommend letting it simmer longer than you think—a full hour really unlocks the rich sweetness of the tomatoes. To finish, I love to blend it to a creamy consistency, giving it the perfect silky texture that's irresistible with crusty bread!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Warm, comforting flavors perfect for cool days
Versatile and easy to customize with your favorite herbs
A quick yet satisfying meal for the whole family

      

Perfecting the Base

The foundation of this tomato soup begins with a well-sautéed aromatic base. Cooking the onions until they are translucent—around 5 minutes—allows them to release their natural sugars, creating a sweeter and more balanced flavor. Garlic should follow, just until it's fragrant, to prevent bitterness. Using a large pot ensures even heat distribution, which is crucial for achieving that perfect consistency in your soup.

If you're looking to enhance the flavor further, consider adding diced carrots or celery when you sauté the onions. These vegetables impart their sweetness and add depth to the soup without altering the overall tomato profile. Adjusting the heat to medium ensures that the veggies soften appropriately without browning too quickly.

Don't rush this step; it's essential to take the time to build layers of flavor from the start. If you find your mix is sticking, a splash of vegetable broth can help you deglaze the pot and lift those flavorful bits off the bottom.

Simmering for Flavor Depth

The simmering phase of this recipe is where the magic truly happens. Allowing your soup to simmer for a full 60 minutes not only melds the flavors together beautifully but also develops a richer and more complex taste. The longer cooking time breaks down the acidity of the tomatoes, resulting in a well-rounded soup that isn't overly tart.

Keep the pot covered while simmering. This helps retain moisture and ensures that the steam circulates within, helping to thicken the soup slightly. If you prefer a chunkier texture, stir occasionally without over-pureeing; this gives you the ideal balance of smoothness and hearty chunks.

If you find your soup too thick at any point, add a splash more vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency. Remember that as it cools, it may thicken a bit, so it's best to keep it a bit looser while it's cooking.

Blending for Texture Perfection

Using an immersion blender is my preferred method for pureeing this tomato soup. It allows for quick and easy blending directly in the pot, minimizing mess. If using a standard blender, let the soup cool slightly and blend in batches to avoid overflow, making sure to vent the lid to prevent steam buildup. A smooth puree creates a luxurious mouthfeel that complements the rich flavors.

After blending, tasting is essential. This is your chance to adjust the seasoning—don't hesitate to add extra salt, pepper, or herbs based on your preference. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick if you’re feeling adventurous!

For serving, a drizzle of olive oil or a dollop of crème fraîche can add a beautiful finish to the bowl, elevating the dish visually and flavor-wise. Pair with crispy grilled cheese for a delightful crunch that marries well with the creamy soup.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a flavorful soup.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 (15-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
2 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Fresh basil for garnish

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your soup.

Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Broth

Add the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Season the Soup

Stir in the dried basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. If the tomatoes taste too acidic, add sugar to balance the flavors.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 60 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Blend and Serve

Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, blend in batches in a regular blender. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

Enjoy your delicious homemade soup!

Pro Tips

For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of cream just before serving. It's also delicious topped with croutons or grated cheese.

Make-Ahead Tips

This slow-simmered tomato soup can easily be made ahead of time. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. After cooking, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it a convenient option for meal prep.

If you're planning to freeze it, let it cool down first, and then store it in freezer-safe containers or bags. Be sure to leave some room for expansion, as liquids can expand when frozen. This soup can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.

I always find that keeping a portion in the freezer for those busy weekdays is a lifesaver. Just reheat and serve with your favorite bread for a quick, comforting meal.

Serving Suggestions

This tomato soup pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. While grilled cheese is a classic choice, try serving it with bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes and basil for a refreshing twist. Croutons or a swirl of pesto can also elevate the dish, adding texture and flavor variations to each bite.

For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked pasta or quinoa to the soup just before serving. This not only makes it more filling but also adds a new layer of flavor. If you or your guests prefer a spicy kick, a sprinkle of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce will complement the tomatoes nicely.

Toppings can also change the experience; try crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan for a salty contrast, or some avocado slices for creaminess. This versatility makes this soup a great base for experimentation!

Ingredient Substitutions

While this recipe calls for crushed tomatoes, you can easily swap in whole canned tomatoes. Just crush them by hand or using a fork before adding them to the pot; this gives you a chunkier texture if desired. If fresh tomatoes are in season, feel free to use about 2-3 pounds, roasting or simmering them down before adding other ingredients.

For a creamier version, consider stirring in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking. This not only enhances the texture but also softens the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a rich taste. If you’re looking for a lighter option, almond milk can be used for a subtle nutty flavor.

Herbs can also be adjusted based on what you have on hand. Fresh basil is wonderful, but dill or parsley can provide a unique twist. Dried herbs may be used in a pinch, but since their flavors are more concentrated, use about half the amount stated in the recipe for adequate flavor balance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely! Use about 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes. Just make sure to blanch and peel them first.

→ How can I make this soup vegan?

This recipe is already vegan, just ensure to use vegetable broth!

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup stores great! Just let it cool and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer.

→ What should I serve with the soup?

Grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or even a fresh salad pair wonderfully with this soup.