Cozy Night In: Creamy Tomato Soup for Two (Easy & Delicious!)
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of creamy tomato soup, especially when shared with someone you love. This recipe is designed specifically for two, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, a romantic weekend lunch, or simply when you’re craving a simple yet satisfying meal. Forget canned soup – this homemade version is bursting with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish. We’ll guide you through each step, ensuring a creamy, dreamy tomato soup that’s sure to become a new favorite.
## Why This Recipe Works
This isn’t just another tomato soup recipe. Here’s why it stands out:
* **Perfectly Portioned:** No leftovers (unless you want them!). This recipe is precisely tailored for two servings.
* **Rich & Creamy:** We achieve the perfect creamy texture without relying solely on heavy cream. A touch of cream cheese adds tang and depth, while the simmering process helps the tomatoes break down and create a naturally creamy base.
* **Flavorful & Aromatic:** The combination of garlic, onion, and herbs elevates the simple tomato flavor to something truly special.
* **Quick & Easy:** Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Customizable:** Easily adaptable to your preferences. Add spices, vegetables, or toppings to create your own signature version.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start, gather these simple ingredients:
* **1 tablespoon olive oil:** For sautéing the vegetables.
* **1/2 small yellow onion, chopped:** Adds a savory base flavor.
* **2 cloves garlic, minced:** Essential for aromatic depth.
* **1 (14.5 ounce) can crushed tomatoes:** The foundation of our soup. Look for good quality crushed tomatoes for the best flavor.
* **1 cup vegetable broth:** Adds moisture and flavor. Chicken broth can also be used if you prefer.
* **1/2 teaspoon dried basil:** Provides a classic Italian herb flavor.
* **1/4 teaspoon dried oregano:** Complements the basil and adds complexity.
* **1/4 teaspoon sugar:** Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
* **Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste:** Seasoning is key!
* **2 ounces cream cheese, softened:** Adds richness, tang, and creaminess.
* **Optional toppings:** Fresh basil, croutons, grated Parmesan cheese, a swirl of cream, red pepper flakes.
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious creamy tomato soup:
**Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics**
* Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat.
* Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the onion to become translucent and fragrant.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
**Why this step is important:** Sautéing the onion and garlic releases their flavors and creates a flavorful base for the soup. Don’t rush this step!
**Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Broth**
* Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth.
* Stir in the dried basil, dried oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper.
**Why this step is important:** The sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes, resulting in a more balanced and flavorful soup. Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
**Step 3: Simmer the Soup**
* Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
* Cover the saucepan and let it simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the tomatoes to soften.
**Why this step is important:** Simmering the soup is crucial for developing its flavor and creating a creamy texture. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be.
**Step 4: Blend the Soup (Optional)**
* For a smoother soup, you can blend it using an immersion blender or a regular blender. If using a regular blender, be very careful when blending hot liquids. Remove the center piece of the blender lid and cover with a towel to allow steam to escape. Blend in batches to prevent splattering.
**Why this step is optional:** Blending the soup creates a velvety smooth texture. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip this step.
**Step 5: Stir in the Cream Cheese**
* Remove the saucepan from the heat.
* Add the softened cream cheese and stir until it is completely melted and incorporated into the soup. This will create a rich and creamy texture.
**Why this step is important:** Adding the cream cheese off the heat prevents it from curdling. Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easy incorporation.
**Step 6: Season to Taste and Serve**
* Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar.
* Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings. Fresh basil, croutons, grated Parmesan cheese, a swirl of cream, and red pepper flakes are all excellent choices.
* Serve immediately and enjoy!
## Tips and Variations
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Add vegetables:** Roast or sauté other vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers, and add them to the soup for extra flavor and nutrients.
* **Use different herbs:** Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary.
* **Make it vegan:** Use vegan cream cheese and vegetable broth.
* **Add protein:** Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more substantial meal.
* **Make it ahead:** The soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
* **Freeze it:** The soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
* **Enhance the Tomato Flavor:** For a deeper tomato flavor, roast the tomatoes before using them in the soup. Simply toss the tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
* **Use Fire-Roasted Tomatoes:** Fire-roasted tomatoes add a smoky flavor that complements the creamy texture of the soup perfectly.
* **Don’t Overcook the Garlic:** Burnt garlic can ruin the flavor of the entire soup. Keep a close eye on it while sautéing and reduce the heat if necessary.
* **Get Creative with Toppings:** Toppings are a great way to add texture and flavor to your soup. Consider adding crispy bacon bits, toasted nuts, or a dollop of pesto.
* **Pair it with Grilled Cheese:** Creamy tomato soup and grilled cheese is a classic combination for a reason. The warm, cheesy sandwich is the perfect accompaniment to the soup.
## Serving Suggestions
This creamy tomato soup is delicious on its own, but it’s also great served with:
* **Grilled cheese sandwiches:** A classic pairing!
* **Crusty bread:** For dipping into the soup.
* **A side salad:** For a complete meal.
* **Quesadillas:** Another cheesy and satisfying option.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
* Calories: Approximately 250-300 (depending on toppings)
* Fat: 15-20g
* Protein: 5-7g
* Carbohydrates: 20-25g
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
**Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?**
A: Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you’ll need to peel and seed them first. You’ll need about 1.5 pounds of fresh tomatoes to equal the amount in a 14.5-ounce can. Roast them first for enhanced flavour.
**Q: Can I use heavy cream instead of cream cheese?**
A: Yes, you can use heavy cream, but the flavor will be slightly different. Start with 1/4 cup and add more to taste. Keep in mind that using only heavy cream may not result in the same tangy flavour.
**Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?**
A: Yes, you can! Sauté the onion and garlic as directed, then transfer them to a slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients (except the cream cheese). Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cream cheese before serving.
**Q: How long does the soup last in the refrigerator?**
A: The soup will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
**Q: Can I add other spices?**
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices to find your perfect flavor combination. Smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder are all great options.
**Q: What if I don’t have vegetable broth?**
A: Chicken broth or even water can be substituted, although the flavor will be slightly different. Using broth contributes more flavour so it is preferable.
**Q: My soup is too thick. What should I do?**
A: Add more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
**Q: My soup is too thin. What should I do?**
A: Simmer the soup uncovered for a longer period of time to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to thicken it.
## Conclusion
This creamy tomato soup for two is a simple yet satisfying recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavor, creamy texture, and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, grab your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to enjoy a cozy night in with a delicious bowl of homemade soup. Don’t forget to share your creations and variations with us! Enjoy!