Slow Cooker Tomato Soup

Easy slow cooker tomato soup is perfect for cozy nights at home or as a quick meal for family gatherings. This comforting soup combines the rich flavors of canned tomatoes with aromatic herbs, making it a delightful and effortless dish. Whether you’re a busy parent or simply looking for a warm bowl of goodness, this slow cooker recipe fits the bill. It’s simple to prepare, full of flavor, and can be enjoyed on many occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just five minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it while your slow cooker does all the work.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and creamy ingredients creates a deliciously rich taste that will warm your soul.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main dish, side, or pair it with grilled cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience.
• Family-Friendly: It’s an easy way to get kids excited about vegetables without them even noticing!
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients from tomatoes and broth, this soup is both satisfying and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To make your slow cooker tomato soup successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline the cooking process and ensure great results every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Immersion Blender
• Cutting Board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: This device allows you to cook your soup slowly over several hours, enhancing its flavors without constant monitoring.
• Immersion Blender: Perfect for achieving that smooth, creamy texture quickly without transferring hot soup to another blender.

Ingredients

Easy slow cooker tomato soup that everyone in your family will enjoy. Made with canned tomatoes and full of flavor.

Canned Tomatoes

• 28 oz Crushed tomatoes (canned)
• 30 oz Diced tomatoes (canned)

Aromatics & Seasonings

• 1/2 cup White onion (diced)
• 1 teaspoon Thyme (dried)
• 1 teaspoon Oregano (dried)
• 1/2 teaspoon Basil (dried)
• 1/2 tablespoon Sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Pepper

Broth & Cream

• 2 cups Vegetable broth
• 4 tablespoons Butter
• 1 cup Half & half

How to Make Slow Cooker Tomato Soup

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

1. Add all ingredients into the slow cooker.
2. Stir gently to combine everything well.
3. Cover with the lid.

Step 2: Cook the Soup

1. Allow it to cook for 4-5 hours on high or 6-7 hours on low.
2. The longer cook time will deepen the flavors.

Step 3: Blend Until Smooth

1. Once cooked, carefully use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy.
2. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only part of the soup.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve warm in bowls.
2. Enjoy with crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic pairing!

This easy slow cooker tomato soup is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings warmth to any table.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Tomato Soup

Serving Slow Cooker Tomato Soup is all about enhancing its delicious flavors and making it a meal everyone will love. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your soup experience.

With Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

• A classic pairing that complements the soup’s rich taste. The gooey, melted cheese and crunchy bread create a delightful contrast.

Topped with Fresh Basil

• Sprinkle chopped fresh basil on top for a burst of herbal flavor. This adds freshness and a lovely color to your bowl.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil can add a luxurious touch. This enhances the flavors and creates a beautiful presentation.

Served with Crusty Bread

• Serve the soup with slices of crusty bread for dipping. The bread’s texture pairs wonderfully with the creamy soup.

Accompanied by Salad

• A light salad can be a refreshing side. Consider a simple mixed green salad to balance the richness of the soup.

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How to Perfect Slow Cooker Tomato Soup

To make your Slow Cooker Tomato Soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance both flavor and texture, ensuring a comforting bowl every time.

• Use Quality Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor. San Marzano tomatoes are an excellent choice.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the herbs based on your preference. Adding more basil or rosemary can create different flavor profiles.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Try adding vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition and taste.
• Blend Well: For a smoother consistency, ensure you blend the soup thoroughly after cooking. An immersion blender works best.
• Serve Warm: Always serve this soup warm. It enhances its comforting qualities, making it perfect for chilly days.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Tomato Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Tomato Soup can take your meal to another level. Here are some tasty options that complement this dish beautifully.

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Classic comfort food that melts perfectly in this warm soup.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing adds crunch and flavor contrasts.
3. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the savory tomato goodness.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide brightness and freshness alongside the soup.
5. Cheesy Biscuit: Fluffy biscuits topped with cheese offer a delightful bite with each spoonful of soup.
6. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad dressed in vinaigrette adds variety without overpowering the main dish.
7. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies can enhance nutrition and bring extra flavors to your meal.
8. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers can make your meal more filling while complementing the tomato base of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making slow cooker tomato soup can be an easy and enjoyable process, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Ignoring the cooking time: Always follow the recommended cooking times. Cooking for too long can make the soup lose its fresh flavor while undercooking may leave it chunky.
• Not seasoning enough: Seasoning is crucial for flavor. Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs accordingly.
• Using low-quality tomatoes: The type of tomatoes you use affects the soup’s taste. Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes for a rich flavor.
• Skipping the blending step: For a smooth consistency, don’t skip using an immersion blender. This step transforms your soup into a creamy delight.
• Overloading on ingredients: While it’s tempting to add extras, stick to the recipe for best results. Too many ingredients can alter the intended flavor profile.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before sealing it in containers.

Freezing Slow Cooker Tomato Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• To prevent freezer burn, remove as much air as possible from bags.

Reheating Slow Cooker Tomato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: Simmer on low heat while stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about slow cooker tomato soup that might help clarify this delicious recipe.

What can I add to my Slow Cooker Tomato Soup?

You can customize with vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or proteins such as chicken or beans for added nutrition.

How long does Slow Cooker Tomato Soup last?

When stored properly, this soup lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I make Slow Cooker Tomato Soup vegan?

Yes! Simply replace half & half with coconut cream or a plant-based milk alternative and ensure broth is vegetable-based.

What pairs well with Slow Cooker Tomato Soup?

It’s great with grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This slow cooker tomato soup is not only easy to prepare but also offers warm comfort in every bowl. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors and add your favorite ingredients. We encourage you to try this delightful recipe and enjoy a cozy meal any day of the week!