Easy Tomato Bisque Recipe

Tomato bisque is a comforting and creamy soup that is perfect for any time of year, but especially on a cold and dreary day. While it shares similarities with traditional tomato soup, there are key differences that set it apart.

Tomato bisque is made with cream, giving it a richer and smoother consistency compared to standard tomato soup, which is usually broth-based and thinner. The addition of cream transforms the texture, making it more filling and giving it a velvety quality.

Another main difference between tomato soup and tomato bisque is in the preparation method itself. Standard tomato soup is typically made by cooking tomatoes with broth and seasonings, then blending it until smooth.

Tomato bisque, on the other hand, often includes a thickening agent such as cream or roux, which helps create a thicker consistency soup. The inclusion of ingredients like carrots and onions also adds depth to the flavor, making it more than just a simple tomato-based dish.

Canned vs. Fresh Tomatoes in Tomato Bisque

Although most people use canned tomatoes to make tomato bisque in the middle of winter, fresh tomatoes work just as well. A 28-ounce can of whole tomatoes contains about 10-12 small plum tomatoes, so for this recipe, you’ll need 20-24 small plum tomatoes which equals approximately 4 pounds.

If you’re using fresh tomatoes, you’ll need to make a few small adjustments to the recipe. Since the bisque is made smooth, either by an immersion blender or a high speed blender, peeling the tomatoes isn’t necessary, but many people prefer to do so.

To peel them, blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer them to an ice bath to loosen the skins. Once peeled, chop them up and use them in place of canned tomatoes.

Because fresh tomatoes have more water content, the bisque may need extra simmering time to reach the right consistency. Choosing ripe, flavorful tomatoes will give you the best-tasting bisque.

Tomato Bisque Recipe

* Complete recipe instructions including specific measurements, cook temperatures and times are located in a printable recipe card at the bottom of this article. However, be sure to read the entire article for helpful tips and tricks when making this recipe.

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 large carrots, diced
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 (28-ounce) cans whole peeled tomatoes
• 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• 2 bay leaves
• 5 to 6 fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish
• 1 cup heavy cream

For Serving (optional)

• 2 tablespoons heavy cream for drizzling
• Crushed red pepper flakes, to taste
• Croutons
• Shredded Parmesan cheese
• Toasted garlic bread or a grilled cheese sandwich

INSTRUCTIONS – TOMATO BISQUE

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the carrots and onions, and saute while stirring frequently until the onions are translucent, about 4-5 minutes.

2. Stir in the whole tomatoes (undrained), olive oil, salt, pepper, chicken stock, and bay leaves.

3. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook until the carrots are tender, about 30 minutes.

4. Remove the pan from the heat and discard the bay leaves. Add the basil leaves to the soup.

5. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. If using a high-speed blender, work in batches, filling the blender no more than halfway each time before blending until smooth.

6. Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream until fully incorporated.

7. Garnish with additional basil, a drizzle of cream, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.

Storing and Reheating

Store tomato bisque in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, warm it over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the bisque thickens too much after refrigeration, add a small amount of broth or water to adjust the consistency.

For longer storage, you can freeze the tomato bisque (without the cream) for up to three months. When ready to serve, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat and stir in the cream before serving to maintain its smooth texture.

Serving Suggestions

The best way to serve tomato bisque is with a classic grilled cheese sandwich or with a piece of garlic bread. If you skip the sandwich or bread, add croutons to provide extra texture. For a beautiful presentation and to add another element of flavor and texture drizzle a little heavy cream over each bowl.

Crushed red pepper flakes can add mild heat, and extra fresh basil adds a bright, fresh element to the dish. For additional flavor, try topping the bisque with shredded Parmesan cheese.

Recipe Variations and Customizations

You can easily customize this recipe to suit different dietary preferences. For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. The soup will still have a creamy texture but with a slightly different flavor profile.

For those who enjoy a smoky taste, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a few roasted red peppers before blending the soup. Roasted garlic can also be incorporated for a deeper, more complex flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making tomato bisque, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for. One of the most frequent issues is curdling, which can happen if the cream is added to a soup that is too hot. To prevent this, lower the heat before adding the cream and stir it in gradually.

Another mistake is over-blending the soup, which can create a gluey texture. When using a high-speed blender, blend in short bursts rather than continuously, and avoid over-processing the soup. If using an immersion blender, blend until smooth but not excessively.

Lastly, seasoning adjustments may be needed based on the type of tomatoes used. If the soup tastes too acidic, a small amount of sugar can help balance the flavors. If it seems bland, additional salt or a splash of balsamic vinegar can enhance the taste.

This homemade tomato bisque is rich, comforting, and easy to make with simple ingredients like tomatoes, onions, carrots, and basil. Whether you use fresh or canned tomatoes, you’ll get a warm, satisfying dish that can easily be customized to your taste.

ENJOY!

Follow Our Facebook Page For Even More Great Tomato Growing Tips! I Grow Tomatoes Facebook Page

I Grow Tomatoes is a website created for those who love all things about tomatoes – from planting and growing – to cooking and canning! We publish two articles every week, 52 weeks a year. Sign up today to follow via email! This article may contain affiliate links.