The Best Vegan Creamy Tomato Soup with Homemade Cheesy Croutons
There’s something truly special about a bowl of rich, velvety smooth tomato soup. It’s a culinary hug, a comforting classic that transcends seasons. But what if we told you that this beloved dish could be elevated to an entirely new level of deliciousness? Imagine that perfect creamy tomato soup, then picture it adorned with golden-brown, melty, cheesy croutons – not just any croutons, but essentially mini grilled cheese sandwiches floating on top. This isn’t just soup; it’s a gourmet experience crafted with minimal effort and maximum flavor, designed to soothe your soul and delight your taste buds.
For many of us, tomato soup holds a nostalgic place in our hearts. Growing up, a classic tomato bisque was often my go-to comfort meal. While my palate has since expanded to appreciate a wide array of soups, from the earthy goodness of roasted cauliflower soup to hearty lentil soup and even the rich umami of mushroom soup, creamy tomato soup still evokes that unparalleled feeling of warmth and contentment. It’s more than just food; it’s a memory, a feeling, a moment of pure bliss.
This homemade recipe takes that cherished memory and transforms it into a wholesome, plant-based masterpiece. Our vegan creamy tomato soup is like a warm embrace for your entire being, featuring that signature slightly sweet, subtly tangy flavor profile beautifully complemented by an incredibly rich and velvety texture. And because we believe comfort food should be truly indulgent, we’ve crowned this masterpiece with those irresistible cheesy croutons. Forget ordinary bread cubes; we’re talking about glorious, golden-brown mini grilled cheese sandwiches, cubed and sprinkled generously over each serving. If you’re searching for a comforting meal that truly nourishes both body and soul, look no further – this is the epitome of vegan comfort food.
Why This Creamy Tomato Soup with Cheesy Croutons Will Be Your New Favorite
This isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a delightful culinary experience packed with reasons to love it:
- Completely Vegan: Enjoy all the decadent creaminess without any dairy! The soup achieves its luxurious, velvety texture through the magic of homemade cashew cream, a fantastic plant-based alternative that adds richness and helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes. For the “cheesy” croutons, simply choose your favorite melty plant-based cheese, creating an indulgent topping that’s entirely animal-product free.
- Simple, Wholesome Ingredients: You don’t need exotic items to create something extraordinary. This recipe is a beautiful demonstration of how a handful of straightforward, wholesome ingredients, readily available at any grocery store, can come together to create a truly magical dish. Each component plays a crucial role, contributing to a symphony of flavors.
- Quick and Effortless Preparation: Forget spending hours slaving over a stove to develop deep, complex flavors. This creamy tomato soup is designed for modern life – it comes together quickly and easily, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend lunch. You’ll be amazed at the depth of flavor achieved in such a short amount of time.
- Ultimate Hearty Comfort Food: This soup is the definition of comfort. It’s not just warm and delicious; it’s incredibly satisfying and substantial, thanks to the wholesome cashew cream and those irresistible cheesy croutons. Each spoonful offers a hug from the inside out, making it perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a little pick-me-up.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Vegan Tomato Soup
Crafting this incredible soup starts with understanding the role of each ingredient. Quality truly shines through here. For precise ingredient quantities and detailed recipe instructions, please scroll down to the full recipe card below.
- Olive Oil: The foundation of our flavor base. Good quality olive oil is essential for sautéing the aromatics and drawing out their initial flavors, creating a rich backdrop for the tomatoes.
- Mirepoix: This classic aromatic base of yellow onion, carrot, and celery is non-negotiable for building profound flavor in our creamy tomato soup. The onions provide a sweet depth, carrots add natural sweetness and color, and celery contributes a subtle herbaceous note, all slowly softened to perfection.
- Garlic: A true superstar in any tomato-based dish! We don’t skimp on garlic cloves here, as its pungent, sweet aroma is a key player in achieving that authentic, irresistible tomato bisque flavor.
- Tomatoes: As the undisputed star of this soup, the quality of your tomatoes profoundly impacts the final taste. Opt for the largest, juiciest ripe fresh tomatoes you can find during peak season. If fresh aren’t available, high-quality canned tomatoes (like San Marzano crushed or diced tomatoes) are an excellent alternative, offering consistent flavor and sweetness year-round. Ensure they are good quality!
- Raw Sugar/Coconut Sugar: Just a touch of either of these natural sweeteners is crucial. It cleverly cuts through the natural acidity of the tomatoes, balancing the flavors beautifully without making the soup overly sweet. This creates a more harmonious and rounded taste.
- Dried Oregano: This classic Mediterranean herb pairs perfectly with tomatoes, adding an earthy, aromatic warmth that is fundamental to the soup’s character.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all the other flavors. Seasoning to taste throughout the cooking process ensures your soup reaches its peak deliciousness. I typically start with ¼ teaspoon each of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, then adjust at the end.
- Vegetable Broth: This liquid forms the bulk of our soup and adds a layer of savory depth. I highly recommend using a good quality homemade vegetable broth, which is not only incredibly flavorful but also easy to make from kitchen scraps! Store-bought low-sodium options also work well.
- Cashew Cream: This is where the magic happens for our dairy-free creaminess! Cashew cream is vital for balancing the tomatoes’ acidity and lending that unbelievably delightful, rich, and creamy texture that defines this soup. Do not skip this step! If you happen to have vegan heavy cream on hand, that could also be used for a similar effect.
Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Creamy Tomato Soup with Cheesy Croutons
Making this incredible soup is simpler than you might think. Follow these easy steps to bring this comforting dish to life:
- Sauté the Mirepoix: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large, deep pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced yellow onions, carrots, and celery, along with the minced garlic. Stir frequently and allow the vegetables to “sweat” for about 8 minutes. This process softens them beautifully and releases their natural aromatic juices, forming a deeply flavorful base for your soup.
- Simmer to Perfection: Next, stir in the chopped fresh or canned tomatoes, sugar, dried oregano, and your initial measurements of salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine, then pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook uncovered for about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let all the flavors meld and deepen.
- Prepare the Cheesy Croutons: While your soup is simmering, get started on these game-changing croutons. In a grilled cheese maker or a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat, prepare your favorite plant-based grilled cheese sandwich until it’s perfectly golden brown and crispy, with the cheese delightfully melted. Once done, let it cool slightly, then cut it into small, bite-sized cubes. These will be your glorious “croutons.”
- Puree to Smoothness: Carefully transfer the simmered soup to a traditional blender (in batches, if necessary, to avoid overfilling and potential hot splashes) or use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Blend until the soup reaches your desired level of smoothness. A traditional blender will yield the silkiest results, while an immersion blender offers a slightly chunkier, rustic texture. Taste and adjust the seasonings – you might need a bit more salt, pepper, or a pinch more sugar to perfectly balance the flavors.
- Achieve Ultimate Creaminess: Return the pureed soup to the pot (if you used a traditional blender). Stir in the cashew cream, starting with 2 tablespoons and adding up to ¼ cup, depending on your desired level of creaminess and richness. Stir until fully combined and the soup is beautifully velvety.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the luxurious creamy tomato soup into warm bowls. Finally, generously top each serving with your freshly prepared cheesy croutons. Serve immediately and savor every comforting spoonful!
Expert Tips for the Best Creamy Tomato Soup
To ensure your creamy tomato soup turns out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:
- Blend Safely and Smartly: When pureeing hot soup in a traditional blender, safety is paramount. Never overfill your blender; work in small batches (two to three is ideal). Always allow the soup to cool slightly before transferring it to the blender to prevent dangerous pressure buildup. Crucially, vent the lid slightly (by removing the center cap) to allow steam to escape, and drape a clean kitchen towel over the top to catch any potential splatters. This prevents accidents and ensures a smooth blending process.
- Choose Your Smoothness: The type of blender you use will determine the final texture of your soup. For the absolute creamiest, silkiest, restaurant-quality results, a high-speed traditional blender is your best friend. If you prefer a slightly easier cleanup and a soup with a bit more rustic texture, an immersion blender (also known as a hand blender) will do the trick, though it may leave a few tiny chunks. Both methods yield delicious soup, so pick what suits your preference and equipment!
- Always Season to Taste: This is perhaps the most important tip! Especially if you’re using fresh tomatoes, their natural sweetness and acidity can vary significantly. After blending and before adding the cashew cream, always taste your soup. If it tastes too acidic or sharp, add a pinch more sugar (raw or coconut) at a time, stirring and tasting until the flavors are perfectly mellow and balanced. Conversely, if it tastes flat, a bit more salt will awaken the flavors. Don’t be afraid to adjust!
Creative Toppings to Elevate Your Tomato Soup
While the cheesy croutons are undeniably the star, there are many other fantastic toppings that can add extra flavor, texture, and visual appeal to your creamy tomato soup. Feel free to experiment and customize each bowl!
- An Extra Dollop of Cashew Cream or Vegan Sour Cream: For an even richer, smoother first bite, swirl in an additional spoonful of cashew cream. Alternatively, a dollop of vegan sour cream can add a delightful tangy kick that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
- Red Pepper Flakes: If you enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes offers a wonderful spicy contrast to the creamy sweetness of the soup. My partner Gavin always insists on a generous amount!
- Fresh Herbs: A simple yet elegant addition. A chiffonade of fresh basil leaves sprinkled over the surface not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of vibrant, aromatic flavor that truly brightens the soup. Fresh parsley or chives also work well.
- Vegan Shredded Cheese or Parmesan: Beyond the croutons, a sprinkle of your favorite melty vegan shredded cheese or homemade vegan Parmesan cheese can add extra savory goodness and a comforting finish.
- Crispy Chickpeas: For a delightful textural contrast and an added boost of protein, try floating a handful of crispy roasted chickpeas on top. They offer a satisfying crunch that complements the smooth soup wonderfully, either in addition to or as an alternative to the cheesy croutons.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Your Creamy Tomato Soup
This creamy tomato soup with cheesy croutons is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Even with the “bread” already in the soup, I always find myself wanting something to soak up every last drop of that delicious broth!
For a truly indulgent experience, serve this soup alongside a crusty piece of no-knead bread, savory olive bread, or light and fluffy vegan dinner rolls. The contrast of the soft interior and crispy crust against the warm soup is simply divine.
If you’re looking for a lighter accompaniment, a fresh, vibrant salad is an excellent choice. A zesty chickpea panzanella salad or a crisp easy vegan Caesar salad would both complement the rich and tangy flavors of this tomato soup perfectly, providing a refreshing counterpoint.
Storing Your Creamy Tomato Soup and Cheesy Croutons
To enjoy this delicious meal later, proper storage is key. You’ll need to store the homemade cheesy croutons separately from the creamy tomato soup to maintain their crispy texture. The grilled cheese croutons can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The soup itself can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Then, quickly reheat the grilled cheese croutons in a microwave or a toaster oven until warmed and slightly crispy again, adding them to the soup just before serving.
Can I Freeze This Recipe?
Yes, the creamy tomato soup freezes beautifully! You can store it in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. However, the grilled cheese croutons do not freeze well and will become soggy upon thawing. For the best experience, always make fresh cheesy croutons when serving soup from frozen. To enjoy, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Prepare a fresh batch of cheesy croutons, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready in no time!
More Comforting Vegan Soup Recipes to Try
If you love this creamy tomato soup, you’ll definitely want to explore these other heartwarming vegan soup recipes:
- Hearty Vegan Cheeseburger Soup
- Wholesome Cabbage Roll Soup
- Delicious Tomato Tortellini Soup
- One-Pot Creamy Loaded Potato Soup
- Creamy Vegan Mushroom Wild Rice Soup
Enjoy, friends! If you make this truly incredible creamy tomato soup with cheesy croutons, we would absolutely love to see your creations. Please snap a photo and tag #jessicainthekitchen on Instagram! Your feedback means the world to us, so please also consider leaving a comment below and giving the recipe a star rating. Thank you so much for your support!
Creamy Tomato Soup with Cheesy Croutons
Pin Recipe
Leave a Review
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 56 ounces fresh or canned tomatoes, chopped, keep liquids
- 3 tablespoons raw sugar/coconut sugar
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- salt & pepper to taste, I use ¼ teaspoon sea salt and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons – ¼ cup cashew cream, or vegan heavy cream
Instructions
- In a large, deep pot over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil.
- Add the onions, carrot, celery and minced garlic. Stir together and allow to sweat for about 8 minutes, to soften and release natural juices from the veggies.
- Add in the tomatoes, sugar, dried oregano and salt and pepper. Stir together. Pour in the vegetable broth and stir again.
- Bring to a boil, and then to a low rolling simmer for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Scoop out the soup and in a few batches (so you don’t overfill your blender and it doesn’t overflow) pour into your blender. If you have a glass blender, ensure it cools down a bit first!
- Press the soup setting or blend until fully blended out. Pour back into the soup pot and mix the soup together one more time to combine everything. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Add in the cashew cream (up to 1/4 cup, taste after 2 tablespoons to see if you want more) and stir to combine. Serve the soup and top with your favourite toppings and enjoy!
Cheesy Croutons
- While the soup is simmering, In a grilled cheese maker or on a skillet, prepare grill cheese sandwich to your likening until very crisp. Cut into cubes and add a few to soup immediately before serving.
Notes
To freeze: The creamy tomato soup can be frozen for up to 3 months in an airtight container. However, the grilled cheese croutons do not freeze well and should be made fresh when serving the soup from frozen. Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Disclaimer: Although jessicainthekitchen.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, kindly note that these are only estimates. Nutritional information may be affected based on the product type, the brand that was purchased, and in other unforeseeable ways. Jessicainthekitchen.com will not be held liable for any loss or damage resulting for your reliance on nutritional information. If you need to follow a specific caloric regimen, please consult your doctor first.