What To Serve With Tomato Soup

Tomato soup is a staple in my house in the winter months. It’s really easy to make, but it’s not exactly the most filling food to get you through the day. That’s why I’ve compiled over 40 go-alongs that are a great and easy way to bulk up a bowl of tomato soup to a full, but simple meal. Read on for 41 delicious ideas – What to serve with tomato soup!

Fingers dipping crusty bread into a bowl of tomato soup with cheese.

Tomato soup is such a versatile and classic comfort food and can be enjoyed alongside so many great options. So many, in fact, that it can sometimes be overwhelming to decide so we just opt for a piece of bread or maybe amp it up a bit by turning the bread into a grilled cheese.

But there are so many other great ideas. I’ve gathered over 40 of my personal favorite tomato soup pairings for you to create a little variety to get your taste buds singing. But don’t worry, grilled cheese made the list. Of course!

Sandwiches – Grilled cheese sandwiches are the classic pairing choice, but tomato soup also pairs great with a pulled pork sandwich or leftover meatloaf sandwich
Bread – Garlic bread, focaccia, breadsticks, rolls, are all great and filling choices with tomato soup
Appetizers – Mozzarella sticks, dumplings, stuffed mushrooms, caprese skewers
Salad – Soup and a simple salad is perfect for a lighter lunch. Try it with chopped salad, pasta salad, caprese salad, etc
Vegetables – roasted veggies, mushrooms, green beans, asparagus, cauliflower, etc
Pasta – Mac and cheese, goulash, buttered noodles
Potatoes – Roasted potatoes, Baked Potatoes, even French Fries
Toppings – Shredded cheese, saltines, oyster crackers, etc.

Best Garlic Roasted Tomato Soup Recipe

This recipe for Garlic Roasted Tomato Soup is bold, flavorful and comforting with super cozy vibes. This tangy tomato soup is also easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and is totally family friendly as a starter or part of a main meal. This homemade soup is also great for entertaining or holiday gatherings. You’ll never open a can of soup again.

Step 1

Let roasted tomatoes and garlic cool. Remove and discard the skins from the large tomato pieces.

Step 2

Melt the butter in a Dutch oven or large heavy-duty skillet or large pot over medium heat. Add onion, salt and pepper and cook (stirring occasionally) for 3-5 minutes, or until onion is soft and fragrant.

Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, basil, oregano, sugar and cooled roasted tomatoes.

Ingredients for tomato soup in a saucepan, ready to cook.

Step 3

Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce to medium-low and simmer uncovered (stirring often) for 45 minutes.

For a chunky soup, serve immediately. For a thinner soup, let cool and add half (or more) of the soup to a blender and puree until desired consistency is reached. Add back to the Dutch oven and heat over medium until the soup is hot.

Step 4

Spread 1 tablespoon of butter over the inside of each half roll. Arrange rolls butter-side-up on a baking sheet and place under a broiler for 3 minutes, or until edges are crispy and butter is melted. Keep a close eye to prevent burning!

Four halves of rolls on a baking sheet, each with a pat of butter on top.

Step 5

Ladle the soup into bowls and top each with a broiled roll half, Parmesan cheese and basil. You can also add a little drizzle of heavy cream.

How to Thicken Tomato Soup

There are a few different ways you can thicken your tomato soup. All of them easy. Follow these tips for the best ways to thicken your soup.

Add some cream – Adding 3/4 cup heavy cream or coconut cream to your soup will thicken the soup slightly and give it a creamy tomato soup texture.
Add mild flavor beans – Add a can of pureed chickpeas or white beans, or puree them in the soup with an immersion blender. It’s also a great way to add extra protein to the soup.
Make a starch slurry thickener – Mix a little cornstarch or potato starch with warm water and stir it into the boiling soup. Turn to simmer and stir.
Reduce the liquid in the soup – Simmer the soup uncovered for a longer time to allow excess water to evaporate by simmering the soup. This will give you a thicker soup with fuller concentrated flavor.

Toppings for Classic Tomato Soup

These are just a few of my favorite suggestions to top your bowl of tomato soup.

Sour Cream: Adds richness and helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Avocado Slices or Pieces: Provides a creaminess and healthy fats.
Crunchy Croutons: Garlic, herb, or sourdough croutons add a delightful crunch.
Toasted Nuts or Seeds: Pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or pine nuts work wonderfully.
Crispy Chickpeas: Roasted and spiced chickpeas give a protein-packed crunch.
Fresh Basil, Oregano, Chives or Green Onions or Parsley: Brighten the flavor with a fresh, herby note.
Grated or Shredded Parmesan or Mozzarella Shreds: Sprinkled on top for a cheesy flavor.
Fresh Ground Black Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes or Garlic Chili Crisps: For a spicy kick.
Balsamic Glaze: Add a drizzle of balsamic vinegar glaze for sweetness and flavor depth.
Olive Oil Drizzle: Use a good-quality, flavored oil for an aromatic touch.
Roasted or Sauteed Veggies: Roasted red bell peppers or caramelized white or yellow onion for extra flavor. Or try Sautéed Mushrooms for a savory, umami element.