5 Ingredient Tomato Soup Recipe
Introduction
This simple 5 Ingredient Tomato Soup is rich, comforting, and easy to make with pantry staples. It’s perfect for a cozy meal and pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese or crusty bread. Made from San Marzano tomatoes, it delivers a deep, authentic flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients
- Two 28-ounce cans San Marzano tomatoes (whole or crushed)
- 1 stick (8 tablespoons) salted butter
- 1 yellow onion, peeled and cut into 4 chunks
- 3–4 cloves smashed garlic (optional)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, combine the tomatoes, butter, onion chunks, garlic (if using), and salt.
- Step 2: Heat the mixture over low until it begins to bubble gently, then reduce to medium-low heat. Partially cover with a lid and let it simmer for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to prevent sticking.
- Step 3: Remove the onion chunks using tongs, leaving the garlic cloves in the soup if you prefer a stronger garlic flavor.
- Step 4: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Adjust the texture by thinning with milk, broth, or water if desired, or leave it as is.
- Step 5: Serve warm with your favorite accompaniments like garlic bread, grilled cheese, croutons, or pesto.
Tips & Variations
- For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or whole milk just before serving.
- If you prefer a brighter tomato flavor, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance acidity.
- Try adding fresh basil or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra depth and a little heat.
- Using crushed tomatoes instead of whole can save time if you’re in a hurry.
Storage
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, but you’ll need about 3 pounds of fresh ripe tomatoes. Blanch and peel them first, then proceed with the recipe. Canned San Marzano tomatoes provide a consistent texture and flavor year-round.
Is the garlic necessary in this soup?
Garlic is optional but adds a subtle depth and aroma. If you prefer a milder soup, you can omit it without affecting the overall flavor too much.
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5 Ingredient Tomato Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A simple and comforting 5-ingredient tomato soup made with San Marzano tomatoes, butter, onion, garlic, and salt. This creamy, savory soup simmers gently to develop rich flavors and is blended smooth for a perfect cozy meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Two 28-ounce cans San Marzano tomatoes (whole or crushed)
- 1 stick (8 tablespoons) salted butter
- 1 yellow onion, peeled and cut into 4 chunks
- 3–4 cloves smashed garlic (optional)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
Instructions
- Make the Tomato Soup: Place the canned tomatoes, butter, and chopped onion into a large saucepan or Dutch oven. Bring the mixture up to a low bubble over medium heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Simmer: Partially cover the pot with a lid and allow the soup to simmer gently for 45 minutes. Stir every 15 minutes to prevent the soup from scorching on the bottom.
- Remove Onion Chunks: After simmering, use tongs to remove the onion pieces from the pot. The garlic cloves can be left in the soup if desired.
- Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, adjusting the texture to your preference. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. You may thin the soup with milk, water, broth, or cream if desired.
- Serve: Serve the hot tomato soup alongside garlic bread, grilled cheese, croutons, crackers, pesto, or any accompaniment you prefer for a delicious meal.
Notes
- Using San Marzano tomatoes provides a richer, sweeter tomato flavor but any good quality canned tomatoes will work.
- Leaving the garlic in adds a subtle garlic presence; you can remove it if you prefer a milder taste.
- This soup can be thinned with dairy or broth to your liking for creamier or lighter textures.
- Store any leftovers refrigerated and consume within 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: tomato soup, easy tomato soup, 5 ingredient soup, homemade tomato soup, simple soup recipe

