Tomato carrot soup has been my go-to comfort food for years, especially on chilly evenings. I remember my mom making a big pot of this soup when I was a kid, and the warm, sweet aroma filling our kitchen always felt like a hug. It’s such a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish that truly nourishes you from the inside out. This easy tomato carrot soup is packed with flavor and goodness, making it perfect for a light lunch or a delightful starter. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Tomato Carrot Soup
There are so many reasons this soup is a winner! It’s a fantastic way to get more veggies into your diet, and it tastes amazing. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile.
- It’s a wonderfully healthy tomato carrot soup recipe, packed with vitamins.
- The combination of sweet carrots and tangy tomatoes is simply delightful.
- It’s a quick and easy meal, perfect for busy weeknights.
- This homemade tomato carrot soup is far better than any store-bought version.
- The vibrant color makes it a cheerful addition to any table.
- It’s naturally vegetarian and can easily be made vegan.
- The simple flavors are comforting and satisfying.
- It’s a great base for many variations, from spicy to creamy.
Ingredients for This Delicious Tomato Carrot Soup
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to this wonderful tomato and carrot soup recipe. This simple list ensures you have everything you need for a flavorful and comforting meal.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing our aromatics
- 1 large onion, chopped – provides a sweet base
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – adds a pungent depth of flavor
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and chopped – the star of our soup, bringing sweetness and vibrant color
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes – the tangy heart of this soup
- 4 cups vegetable broth – the liquid base that brings it all together
- 1 teaspoon dried basil – for a classic herbaceous note
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – complements the basil beautifully
- Salt and pepper to taste – to perfectly season your soup
- Optional: cream or coconut milk – for a luxurious, creamy tomato carrot soup
How to Make the Best Tomato Carrot Soup
Let’s dive into making this incredibly satisfying soup. It’s a straightforward process that yields fantastic results, proving just how delicious and simple a homemade meal can be.
- Step 1: Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1 large chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it softens and becomes translucent, which usually takes about 5 minutes. I love the sweet aroma that begins to fill the kitchen at this stage.
- Step 2: Now, add 2 minced cloves of garlic to the pot. Cook for just another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Burnt garlic can turn bitter, and we want to avoid that!
- Step 3: Stir in 1 lb of chopped carrots, 1 (28 ounce) can of crushed tomatoes, and 4 cups of vegetable broth. Give everything a good mix to combine all those wonderful flavors together. This is where the magic starts to happen for our tomato and carrot soup recipe.
- Step 4: Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are perfectly tender when pierced with a fork. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Step 5: Stir in 1 teaspoon of dried basil and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Season generously with salt and pepper to your taste. This is a crucial step in how to make tomato carrot soup that truly sings.
- Step 6: For an incredibly smooth and luxurious soup, you have a couple of options. You can use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot. For an even easier approach, consider this your first step in making an easy tomato carrot soup that’s wonderfully creamy.
- Step 7: At this point, you can stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk if you desire a richer, more decadent finish. This step transforms it into a delightful creamy tomato carrot soup. Taste and adjust seasonings one last time before serving this amazing homemade tomato carrot soup hot.
Roasting for Deeper Flavor
For a richer, more complex taste in your tomato carrot soup, consider roasting the chopped carrots and whole tomatoes (if using instead of canned) before adding them to the pot. Roasting at around 400°F (200°C) for 20-30 minutes caramelizes their natural sugars, intensifying their sweetness and adding a lovely depth. For more information on the benefits of roasting vegetables, check out this guide to roasting vegetables.
Achieving a Creamy Texture
To achieve that luscious texture for a creamy tomato carrot soup, simply stir in about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of heavy cream, half-and-half, or unsweetened coconut milk during the final blending stage. This adds a velvety smoothness that is simply divine and elevates the entire soup experience. If you enjoy creamy dishes, you might also like this creamy Tuscan sausage gnocchi.
Customizing Your Spicy Tomato Carrot Soup
If you love a little heat, turning this into a spicy tomato carrot soup is super easy! Simply add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes along with the garlic in Step 2. You can always add more to suit your preference for a warming kick.
Ensuring a Vegan Tomato Carrot Soup
Making a delicious vegan tomato carrot soup is effortless. Just ensure your vegetable broth is certified vegan and opt for unsweetened coconut milk or omit the optional cream entirely in Step 7. This keeps the soup hearty and flavorful without any animal products.
Pro Tips for Perfect Tomato Carrot Soup
Want to elevate your soup game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make this simple soup truly shine. These tips will help you create a truly memorable bowl of goodness every time.
- Always start with good quality ingredients. Fresh carrots and good canned tomatoes make a noticeable difference in the final flavor of your homemade tomato carrot soup.
- Don’t rush the sautéing of the onions and garlic. Letting them soften and become fragrant builds a crucial flavor foundation for the entire soup.
- Taste and adjust seasoning at multiple stages, especially after simmering and before serving. This ensures a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
- If blending, ensure the soup is slightly cooled before using a regular blender to avoid steam buildup.
What’s the secret to perfect Tomato Carrot Soup?
The real secret lies in building a solid flavor base. Properly sautéing your onions and garlic until they are soft and fragrant, not just heated through, is key. This process unlocks their natural sweetness and depth, which is essential for a truly delicious soup.
Can I make Tomato Carrot Soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup is a fantastic candidate for meal prep. You can make the entire batch a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors actually meld and deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day. For more meal prep ideas, check out these last recipes.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Tomato Carrot Soup?
A common pitfall is overcooking the carrots, which can make them mushy. Simmer until just tender. Also, be careful not to burn the garlic when you add it; cook it just until fragrant. Finally, always taste and adjust your salt and pepper before serving.
Best Ways to Serve Tomato Carrot Soup
This versatile soup is wonderful on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Serving it as a delightful tomato carrot bisque makes for an extra special starter or a light main course. I love to serve it piping hot with a generous slice of crusty artisan bread for dipping – it’s pure comfort! For more bread ideas, consider focaccia bread.
For a more substantial meal, consider serving this soup alongside a light, fresh salad with a vinaigrette dressing. The crispness of the greens and the tang of the dressing offer a lovely contrast to the soup’s warmth. It’s also fantastic with grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic, comforting combination that’s always a hit.
Nutrition Facts for Tomato Carrot Soup
This healthy tomato carrot soup recipe is not only delicious but also quite nutritious. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving, keeping in mind that these are estimates.
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your preparation of this delightful homemade tomato carrot soup.
How to Store and Reheat Tomato Carrot Soup
One of the best things about this homemade tomato carrot soup is how well it stores and reheats, making it perfect for meal prep. Once your soup has cooled completely to room temperature (this is important to prevent bacterial growth), ladle it into airtight containers. For refrigerator storage, it will keep beautifully for about 3 to 4 days. This makes it super convenient for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
If you want to store it for longer, freezing is an excellent option. Your tomato carrot soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just ensure your containers are freezer-safe and leave a little headspace, as liquids expand when frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Avoid boiling vigorously after reheating to maintain the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tomato Carrot Soup
What is tomato carrot soup?
Tomato carrot soup is a comforting and flavorful soup made primarily from tomatoes and carrots. It’s a wonderfully simple dish that combines the slight sweetness of carrots with the bright tanginess of tomatoes. This soup is often pureed for a smooth texture, though chunky versions exist. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the health benefits of both vegetables in a delicious and warming meal.
Why make tomato carrot soup?
There are so many great reasons to make this soup! Firstly, it’s incredibly healthy, packed with vitamins and antioxidants from both tomatoes and carrots, making it a perfect choice for a healthy tomato carrot soup recipe. It’s also remarkably easy to prepare, making it ideal for beginners or busy weeknights. The comforting flavors are universally loved, and it’s a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking, from spicy to creamy variations.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for this tomato and carrot soup recipe?
Absolutely! If fresh tomatoes are in season and you prefer them, you can definitely use them. You’ll likely need about 2 lbs of ripe, fresh tomatoes. It’s best to core and roughly chop them before adding them to the pot. Roasting fresh tomatoes beforehand can also enhance their flavor, giving your soup an even richer taste profile. Just be aware that fresh tomatoes might release more liquid, so you may need to simmer a bit longer to reach your desired consistency.
What are the best vegetables to add to tomato carrot soup?
While carrots and tomatoes are the stars, this soup is very forgiving and welcomes other vegetables. Onions and garlic are already included for a flavor base. You could also add celery for aromatic depth, bell peppers (especially red or yellow for sweetness) for extra color and nutrients, or even a bit of potato or parsnip for added heartiness. Some people even add a handful of spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for an extra boost of greens.
Variations of Tomato Carrot Soup You Can Try
This foundational tomato carrot soup recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Whether you’re looking for a specific dietary option or a new flavor profile, there’s a variation for everyone. It’s a fantastic canvas for culinary creativity!
- Hearty Vegetarian Tomato Carrot Soup: For a robust, satisfying meal, consider adding hearty elements like small pasta shapes (like ditalini or orzo), white beans (cannellini or Great Northern), or even some cubed potatoes. This transforms the soup into a complete meal that’s incredibly filling and flavorful, making it a perfect vegetarian tomato carrot soup.
- Creamy Roasted Tomato Carrot Bisque: Elevate the soup by roasting your carrots and tomatoes first (as mentioned in the pro tips). Then, blend everything until super smooth and stir in a swirl of heavy cream or cashew cream for a luxurious, restaurant-quality tomato carrot bisque. This method deepens the flavors significantly.
- Spicy Thai-Inspired Tomato Carrot Soup: For an adventurous twist, add a tablespoon of red curry paste and a splash of coconut milk while simmering. Finish with a squeeze of lime juice and some fresh cilantro. This variation offers a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes.
- Smooth Tomato and Carrot Puree Soup: If you prefer an ultra-silky texture, ensure you blend the soup thoroughly until completely smooth. You can achieve this using an immersion blender or a high-powered countertop blender. Straining the soup after blending can also guarantee a perfect tomato and carrot puree soup consistency.

Simple Tomato Carrot Soup: 1 Delicious Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious homemade tomato carrot soup recipe. This healthy tomato carrot soup is perfect for a light meal or starter.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: cream or coconut milk for a creamy tomato carrot soup
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- Stir in chopped carrots, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until carrots are tender.
- Stir in basil and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- For a creamy tomato carrot soup, blend the soup using an immersion blender or carefully transfer to a regular blender. Stir in cream or coconut milk if desired.
- Serve hot. This easy tomato carrot soup is a crowd-pleaser.
Notes
- You can roast the carrots and tomatoes before adding them for a deeper flavor.
- Adjust seasoning as needed for your perfect tomato carrot soup.
- This recipe makes a great base for a spicy tomato carrot soup; add chili flakes to taste.
- For a vegan tomato carrot soup, ensure your vegetable broth is vegan and use coconut milk or omit the cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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