Welcome! This creamy tomato bisque recipe is a comforting classic that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. It’s a family favorite in my house, especially on chilly evenings. My kids just love it!
I’ll guide you through each step, from selecting the best tomatoes to achieving that perfect, velvety texture. You’ll learn all my secrets! It’s easier than you think to make amazing homemade tomato bisque.
Get ready for a bowl of pure deliciousness! This bisque is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again.
Why This Tomato Bisque Recipe is Special
This isn’t just any tomato bisque. It’s rich, flavorful, and customizable. You can really make it your own!
We’re using a secret ingredient (shhh…it’s roasted garlic!) to elevate the taste and create a truly unforgettable soup. That roasted garlic adds such a depth of flavor. Plus, it’s ready in under an hour!
Ingredients for the Best Tomato Bisque
Let’s talk ingredients! Choosing quality ingredients is key to a truly delicious and flavorful tomato bisque. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each component matters:
Fresh Tomatoes vs. Canned Tomatoes
You can use either fresh or canned tomatoes for this bisque recipe. Fresh tomatoes give a bright, vibrant flavor. Canned tomatoes are convenient and often more consistent in quality, especially during off-season.
If using fresh, choose ripe, juicy tomatoes like Roma or San Marzano. If using canned, opt for whole peeled or crushed tomatoes.
The Supporting Cast: Aromatics and Dairy
These ingredients really make the tomato bisque shine. Onions and garlic form the flavorful base of the soup. Don’t skip these!
Vegetable broth (or chicken broth) adds depth and body. Heavy cream (or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream) gives the bisque its signature creamy texture. Fresh herbs like basil and thyme add brightness and aroma. Roasted garlic is optional, but strongly recommended for an extra layer of flavor.
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor
Want to take your tomato bisque to the next level? Try these add-ins!
A splash of balsamic vinegar adds a touch of acidity that balances the richness of the cream. A pinch of red pepper flakes brings a subtle warmth. And a dollop of pesto stirred in at the end adds a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor. Experiment and find your favorite combination!
Step-by-Step Tomato Bisque Recipe Instructions
Ready to make some magic? This tomato bisque recipe is straightforward, and I’ll guide you every step of the way. Let’s get cooking! Did you know a great soup starts with the right base? If you are looking for some inspiration on other options, check out some easy crockpot soup recipes.
Roasting the Garlic (Optional but Recommended!)
Roasting the garlic adds a wonderful sweetness to the tomato bisque. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off a head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 40-45 minutes, or until soft and caramelized. Let it cool slightly before squeezing out the cloves.
Sautéing the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of butter (or olive oil) over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic (or the roasted garlic from above) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Adding the Tomatoes and Broth
Add 28 ounces of crushed or whole peeled tomatoes (or about 6-8 fresh tomatoes, chopped), the roasted garlic cloves (if using), 4 cups of vegetable broth (or chicken broth), 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low.
Simmering and Blending
Cover the pot and let the tomato soup simmer for at least 20 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, to allow the flavors to meld. This step is key for a flavorful bisque. This simmering process helps develop a more robust flavor profile, similar to what you’d find in a carefully crafted homemade chicken noodle soup recipe.
Once simmered, remove the pot from the heat. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, carefully transfer the hot soup in batches to the blender, being mindful of the steam. Blend until smooth. Never fill a blender more than 1/3 full with hot liquids!
Finishing Touches: Cream and Seasoning
Return the blended tomato bisque to the pot. Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream (or a dairy-free alternative) and heat through gently over low heat. Do not boil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serving and Garnish Ideas
Ladle the tomato bisque into bowls and get ready to enjoy!
For a special touch, add some grilled cheese croutons. Simply cut a grilled cheese sandwich into small squares and float them on top. A swirl of pesto, a sprinkle of fresh basil, or a dollop of sour cream are also great additions.
Make it a meal! This bisque pairs perfectly with a classic grilled cheese sandwich or a simple green salad. My kids love dipping their grilled cheese into the creamy tomato bisque. It’s the ultimate comfort food combination!
Tips for the Perfect Tomato Bisque
Making the perfect tomato bisque is all about the details. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure your soup is a success every time.
Achieving the Right Consistency
Is your bisque too thick? Add more broth to thin it out. Too thin? Simmer it uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to thicken it quickly.
Boosting the Flavor
Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors! A bay leaf added during simmering adds a subtle depth. A pinch of sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes. And my personal favorite? A touch of smoked paprika adds a lovely smoky note. Try a splash of balsamic vinegar or sherry vinegar for brightness. A little goes a long way! To learn more about the health benefits of tomatoes, you can check external sources. And since fresh herbs elevate the flavor, learn how to maintain the freshness, similar to what we do with our shrimp salad recipes delicious ideas.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
Tomato bisque is great for meal prepping. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stovetop. If you are looking for ideas to optimize your meal prepping, follow this healthy meal prep ideas nutrition
Variations: Vegan and Dairy-Free Options
To make this tomato bisque recipe vegan or dairy-free, simply substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream. Ensure you are also using vegetable broth and not chicken broth. The taste is still incredibly rich and satisfying!
Equipment You’ll Need
Having the right equipment makes cooking this tomato bisque even easier. Here’s what you’ll need:
Must-Have Kitchen Tools
To make this tomato bisque, you’ll need a Dutch oven or a large pot. An immersion blender is perfect for making the soup smooth and creamy right in the pot, but a regular blender works too (just be careful!). And, of course, you’ll need measuring cups and spoons to measure out your ingredients.
Nice-to-Have Tools
While not essential, a garlic roaster can make roasting garlic a breeze. And if you’re using fresh tomatoes, a food mill can help remove the skins and seeds for an extra-smooth bisque.
FAQ
Got questions about tomato bisque? I’ve got answers! Here are some common questions I get asked about this delicious soup.
What is the difference between tomato soup and tomato bisque?
While both are tomato-based, tomato bisque is typically richer and creamier than tomato soup. The key difference is the addition of cream or another dairy product to create that luxurious texture. Bisque also often has a smoother consistency than tomato soup, achieved through blending.
What are the ingredients of bisque?
The base of a bisque is typically seafood (like lobster, crab, or shrimp) or vegetables. Cream is essential for its signature richness. Other common ingredients include aromatics like onions and garlic, broth, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and herbs. This tomato bisque recipe uses tomatoes as the base. If you want to branch out and use vegetables, make sure that you get the most flavor by finding the roasted broccoli and carrots
What makes a dish a bisque?
A bisque is defined by its creamy texture and the method of preparation. It’s usually made by puréeing the main ingredients and then enriching the soup with cream. The puréeing process gives the bisque its characteristic smoothness. For another delicious tomato based recipe that uses similar pureeing techniques, take a look at Gazpacho recipes, for some inspiration.
Should you strain tomato soup?
Whether or not to strain tomato soup is a matter of preference. If you’re using fresh tomatoes, straining removes the seeds and skins, resulting in a smoother texture. If using canned tomatoes, straining isn’t usually necessary unless you prefer a very refined soup. If you want the absolute smoothest tomato bisque, straining is a great step to take.
Enjoy Your Homemade Tomato Bisque!
There you have it – my family’s favorite tomato bisque recipe! I hope you try it and discover how easy it is to create this comforting classic at home. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs, spices, and toppings to make it your own.
This tomato bisque is more than just a soup; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or a simple yet elegant lunch. I hope you enjoy it as much as my family does! Please share your variations and creations with me – I’d love to see them! Happy cooking!
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Tomato Bisque Recipe
- Total Time: 59 minute
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cozy up with this creamy tomato bisque! This easy, homemade recipe delivers rich, comforting flavors in under an hour. Perfect for any night!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 1 chopped onion
- 2 cloves minced garlic (or roasted garlic)
- 28 ounces crushed or whole peeled tomatoes (or 6–8 fresh tomatoes, chopped)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or dairy-free alternative)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Pesto (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) if roasting garlic. Cut top off garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 40-45 minutes until soft. Let cool.
2. Melt butter or olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened (5 mins). Add garlic and cook until fragrant (1 min).
3. Add tomatoes, roasted garlic (if using), broth, basil, and thyme to the pot. Stir well.
4. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-30 minutes.
5. Remove from heat. Use an immersion blender (or regular blender carefully) to blend until smooth.
6. Return to pot. Stir in cream and heat gently. Do not boil. Season with salt and pepper. Add balsamic vinegar, red pepper flakes or pesto if desired.
7. Serve with grilled cheese croutons, pesto swirl, fresh basil, or sour cream.
Notes
Vegan – Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream, and use vegetable broth. Experiment with bay leaf, sugar, or smoked paprika to boost the flavor.
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American, Italian
Keywords: tomato bisque, soup, creamy, tomato, roasted garlic, easy recipe, homemade