There’s something heartwarming about a bowl of classic tomato soup. When prepared in a crockpot, it becomes an easy, hassle-free dish that fills your home with an irresistible aroma. This classic crockpot tomato soup blends fresh ingredients and simple techniques, allowing you to savor every spoonful while letting your slow cooker do the hard work.
Why We Love This Classic Crockpot Tomato Soup Recipe
You might find a million reasons to love this classic recipe, but let’s dive into the key highlights. First and foremost, the convenience of using a slow cooker cannot be overstated. Toss your fresh ingredients into the crockpot, and you’re free to go about your day while it cooks to perfection. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making every bite rich and delicious. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up those garden-fresh tomatoes or that organic produce you picked up at the farmer’s market. Comfort, ease, and flavor—this recipe checks all the boxes.
Ingredients about Classic Crockpot Tomato Soup
- Fresh tomatoes: 2 pounds, chopped
- Vegetable or chicken broth: 4 cups
- Heavy cream: 1 cup
- Onion: 1 large, chopped
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Basil (optional): Fresh, for garnish
- Parmesan cheese (optional): Grated, for serving
How to Make Classic Crockpot Tomato Soup Directions
Creating your classic crockpot tomato soup is remarkably straightforward. Start by prepping your ingredients. Chop the fresh tomatoes, onion, and garlic finely. The freshness of these ingredients is key to achieving that famous rich flavor. Once chopped, head over to your slow cooker.
In the slow cooker, combine the chopped tomatoes, vegetable or chicken broth, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. This blend of ingredients creates a savory base you’ll fall in love with. Drizzle the mixture with olive oil to enhance the flavor and texture. Give everything a good stir to combine these vibrant ingredients.
Now, it’s time for the magic to happen. Set your crockpot to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. If timing allows, the low setting is preferable as it allows the flavors to deepen and develop beautifully.
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, it’s time to add the creamy touch. Stir in the heavy cream to give the soup that dreamy, silky texture. For those who prefer a smoother consistency, now is the moment to pull out an immersion blender. Blend the soup directly in the crockpot until you achieve your desired texture. Alternatively, you can transfer the mixture to a traditional blender, taking care to blend in batches if necessary.
Once everything is well blended and heated through, your classic crockpot tomato soup is ready to be served! Remember to taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed.
How to Serve Classic Crockpot Tomato Soup
Serving your classic crockpot tomato soup is where you can get a bit creative. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Start by ladling the hot soup into bowls. You might want to keep some freshly baked bread or warm grilled cheese sandwiches on the side. This classic pairing is perfect for dipping and complements the rich tomatoes beautifully.
For an extra touch, consider garnishing your soup with fresh basil leaves. Their fragrant aroma will elevate each bowl. Additionally, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can bring a delightful earthiness to the dish. You can either serve the cheese on the side or sprinkle it directly atop each bowl before serving.
For an even more fulfilling meal, pair your soup with a garden salad. The freshness of the salad contrasts well with the warm, creamy soup, providing a balanced dining experience.
Expert Tips: Classic Crockpot Tomato Soup
Ready to take your classic crockpot tomato soup to the next level? Here are some expert tips to consider. First, always opt for ripe, in-season tomatoes for maximum flavor. If fresh tomatoes are out of season or if you’re pressed for time, you can also use canned crushed tomatoes as an alternative.
Don’t shy away from adding herbs and spices! If you appreciate bold flavors, consider adding a bay leaf or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. These ingredients can enhance the soup, transforming it from simple to extraordinary.
If you’re mindful of your cream intake, consider using half-and-half or even coconut milk as a substitute for the heavy cream. This option will yield a slightly different flavor but will remain creamy and delicious.
Lastly, consider making a batch of this soup ahead of time. It freezes well, so you can enjoy it on busy days. Just remember to leave out the cream until you’re ready to serve.
How to Store Classic Crockpot Tomato Soup
After enjoying your delicious classic crockpot tomato soup, you may find yourself with leftovers. Storing your soup is simple and easy! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps retain its flavor and keeps it fresh for later.
Refrigerated, your classic crockpot tomato soup will last for 3 to 5 days. If you’re looking to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers and leave some space at the top for expansion. It can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Variation of Classic Crockpot Tomato Soup
This classic crockpot tomato soup serves as an excellent base for various delicious variations. One popular addition is roasted vegetables. Roast a mix of your favorite veggies—such as bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini—and toss them into the slow cooker for extra flavor and nutrition.
For those who love a bit of spice, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This will give your soup a nice kick!
If you want to get adventurous, blend in some cooked lentils for protein, creating a hearty meal that will keep you satisfied. Alternatively, a hint of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar can brighten the flavors, adding a refreshing twist.
Don’t forget the herbs! You can try mixing in different herbs like oregano or thyme. These can offer new layers of taste to your dish. There’s no wrong way to prepare your soup—experiment with what you love and make it your own.
FAQ
What are the main ingredients in classic crockpot tomato soup?
Classic crockpot tomato soup primarily includes fresh tomatoes, vegetable or chicken broth, onion, garlic, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Some optional garnishes are basil and Parmesan cheese.
How do I make classic crockpot tomato soup?
To make classic crockpot tomato soup, start by chopping fresh tomatoes, onions, and garlic. Combine them in a slow cooker with broth, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in heavy cream 30 minutes before serving and blend if desired.
How can I serve classic crockpot tomato soup?
You can serve classic crockpot tomato soup in bowls, garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese. Pair it with grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread for a comforting meal.
How long can I store classic crockpot tomato soup?
You can store classic crockpot tomato soup in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. If freezing, it can last up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers. Just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.
Classic Crockpot Tomato Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds Fresh tomatoes, chopped Opt for ripe, in-season tomatoes for maximum flavor.
- 4 cups Vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup Heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk.
- 1 large Onion, chopped
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Pepper
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
Optional Garnishes
- to taste Fresh basil For garnish.
- to taste Parmesan cheese, grated For serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Chop the fresh tomatoes, onion, and garlic finely.
- In the slow cooker, combine the chopped tomatoes, broth, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle with olive oil and stir to combine.
Cooking
- Set the crockpot to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream.
- Blend the soup if desired, using an immersion blender or traditional blender.
Serving
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve with crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches.
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