The Ultimate Easy Instant Pot Tomato Soup: Creamy, Flavorful & Quick
Craving a bowl of warm, comforting tomato soup? Look no further! This Easy Instant Pot Tomato Soup recipe is designed to bring that classic, beloved flavor right to your kitchen with minimal effort. Forget bland, store-bought versions; our homemade Instant Pot Tomato Soup offers a richness and depth of flavor that will revolutionize your perception of this staple comfort food. Crafted directly in your pressure cooker, this recipe blends the vibrant taste of ripe tomatoes with aromatic basil and savory Italian seasoning, creating a dish that’s both wholesome and incredibly satisfying. Whether you prefer the convenience of canned tomatoes or the freshness of garden-grown produce, this versatile recipe adapts beautifully, promising a creamy, delightful experience every time.
Not only is this Instant Pot Tomato Soup bursting with authentic flavors, but it also caters to various dietary preferences, making it a fantastic choice for everyone at your table. It’s naturally vegan-friendly, vegetarian, and gluten-free, ensuring that almost anyone can enjoy a comforting bowl without worry. Say goodbye to artificial preservatives and embrace the simplicity of preparing a truly delicious and healthy meal at home. The Instant Pot transforms what could be a lengthy simmering process into a quick, hands-off affair, allowing you to enjoy gourmet-quality soup even on the busiest weeknights. This recipe promises to be a new family favorite, delivering rich, robust flavors with every spoonful.
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Growing up, many of us enjoyed tomato soup as a comforting classic, often paired with a grilled cheese sandwich. This recipe takes that nostalgic comfort food and elevates it to a whole new level, making it so much better than any store-bought canned variety. By making your own Instant Pot tomato soup at home, you gain complete control over the ingredients, ensuring a fresh, vibrant, and genuinely wholesome meal. You’ll be amazed at how a handful of simple, key ingredients can transform into such a profoundly flavorful dish. The ease of preparation in the Instant Pot means you can enjoy superior taste without spending hours in the kitchen.
In addition to its incredible flavor, this homemade tomato soup is a fantastic option for various dietary needs. It’s naturally vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free, provided you use vegetable broth. This makes it a versatile choice for families with diverse dietary restrictions or preferences, ensuring everyone can partake in a delicious and satisfying meal. You can customize the creaminess and seasonings to your liking, truly making it your own.
Why the Instant Pot for Tomato Soup?
The Instant Pot is a game-changer when it comes to making soups, and tomato soup is no exception. Its pressure cooking function drastically cuts down cooking time, allowing flavors to meld and deepen in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop. This means you can achieve that slow-simmered taste in under an hour, from start to finish. The sealed environment of the pressure cooker also helps to preserve nutrients and moisture, resulting in a more vibrant and intensely flavored soup.
Beyond speed, the Instant Pot offers unparalleled convenience. With its sauté function, you can build the flavor base by cooking aromatics directly in the pot, eliminating the need for multiple pans. Then, simply add the remaining ingredients, set it, and let the appliance do the rest. This hands-off approach makes it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal without constant supervision. The consistent heat and pressure ensure a perfectly cooked soup every time, making it nearly foolproof.
What Type of Tomatoes to Use
The quality and type of tomatoes you choose will significantly impact the flavor of your Instant Pot Tomato Soup. While fresh tomatoes offer a bright, seasonal taste, canned varieties provide exceptional convenience and consistency year-round. Don’t underestimate the power of good quality canned tomatoes; they are often picked at their peak ripeness and processed immediately, locking in their robust flavor.
I highly recommend using organic crushed canned tomatoes. These are readily available at most grocery stores and provide a smooth, rich base without needing much prep. Their texture breaks down beautifully during pressure cooking, contributing to a silky soup.
Alternatively, you can use whole peeled tomatoes in a can. If you opt for these, I suggest crushing them by hand or with a potato masher before adding them to the pot. This helps them break down more easily and integrate into the soup. For an added layer of flavor and a subtle smoky kick, consider using fire-roasted canned tomatoes. They introduce a delicious complexity that complements the other seasonings perfectly.
If you prefer to use fresh tomatoes, aim for 3-4 pounds of ripe, flavorful varieties like Roma, beefsteak, or heirloom tomatoes. Chop them roughly before adding them to the Instant Pot. When using fresh tomatoes, pressure cook for 20 minutes, followed by a 25-minute natural release of steam to ensure they are fully tender and their flavors are thoroughly extracted. Fresh tomatoes will give your soup a lighter, brighter profile.
How to Make Instant Pot Tomato Soup
Creating this delicious soup in your Instant Pot is incredibly straightforward. The process is designed to be efficient, maximizing flavor with minimal hands-on time. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the steps:
- Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by activating the “Saute” function on your Instant Pot. Once hot, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Introduce your chopped onions, celery, and carrots. These vegetables, often referred to as a “mirepoix,” form the foundational flavor base for many soups. Sauté them for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and you can smell their sweet aroma filling your kitchen.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic. Cook for another minute, being careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can turn bitter. The garlic adds a pungent, savory depth that is crucial to the soup’s overall profile.
- Combine Remaining Ingredients: Pour in the broth (vegetable for a vegan option, or chicken for added richness). Then, add the crushed tomatoes, a pinch of salt and pepper, a generous teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and dried basil. Finally, stir in the sweetener. This is a critical step for balancing the acidity of the tomatoes. Give everything a good stir to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, ensuring the sealing ring is properly in place and the vent is set to “Sealing.” Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function (depending on your model) and set the cooking time to 15 minutes on High Pressure.
- Natural Release: Once the cooking cycle is complete, the Instant Pot will typically display “L0” or a similar indicator, meaning it’s keeping warm. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. This is important as it prevents the soup from erupting and helps the flavors settle. After 10 minutes, carefully move the vent to “Venting” for a quick release of any remaining pressure.
- Blend for Creaminess: Once the pressure has fully released and the lid can be safely opened, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend the soup until it reaches your desired creamy consistency. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a standard blender, being sure not to overfill it and holding the lid down firmly (steam can cause pressure to build up).
Achieving the Perfect Creamy Texture
The base flavor of this Instant Pot tomato soup recipe is wonderfully classic and traditional, offering a pure tomato essence with herbaceous notes. However, if you desire a truly decadent and creamy soup, there are a couple of excellent additions you can make *after* the pressure cooking process is complete. Adding dairy or dairy alternatives after cooking ensures they don’t curdle or separate under high pressure, maintaining a smooth texture.
For a rich, velvety texture, you can stir in ½ cup of heavy whipping cream. This will impart a luxurious mouthfeel and a subtle dairy sweetness that beautifully complements the tang of the tomatoes. If you prefer a thicker, more tangy creaminess, add 4 ounces of cream cheese (cut into cubes for easier melting). Stir it in until it’s fully dissolved and integrated into the hot soup. Both options will transform the soup into an incredibly satisfying, restaurant-quality dish.
For those seeking a dairy-free or vegan creamy option, full-fat coconut milk (from a can) or a homemade cashew cream (blended soaked cashews with water) are excellent substitutes. Start with ½ cup and add more to achieve your desired consistency and richness.
The Flavor Profile of Our Tomato Soup
The star of this Instant Pot Tomato Soup is, undoubtedly, the tomatoes. You can expect a deep, robust tomato flavor that is both comforting and tangy. To elevate this natural goodness, we carefully season the soup with key herbs that enhance its profile without overpowering it. The aromatic notes of basil, whether fresh or dried, bring a sweet, peppery, and slightly minty quality that is a classic pairing with tomatoes. Additionally, Italian Seasoning adds a harmonious blend of herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary, contributing to the soup’s Mediterranean-inspired richness.
One crucial element for a perfectly balanced tomato soup is managing acidity. Tomatoes are naturally acidic, and a little sweetness goes a long way in creating a well-rounded flavor. To achieve this balance, I incorporate a touch of sweetener. While I typically use 3-4 teaspoons of a sugar-free alternative, regular sugar works just as effectively. The amount can be adjusted to your personal preference – some like it sweeter, others prefer a more pronounced tang. You can even omit it entirely if you find the natural sweetness of the tomatoes sufficient. It’s all about tailoring the soup to your palate. Taste and adjust after pressure cooking for the perfect finish!
Creative Topping Ideas
Elevate your Instant Pot Tomato Soup from simply delicious to absolutely gourmet with a variety of creative toppings. Garnishes add not only visual appeal but also exciting textures and complementary flavors that can transform each spoonful. Here are some fantastic ideas to inspire you:
- Crispy Croutons: A classic for a reason! Their crunch provides a delightful contrast to the smooth soup.
- Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of fresh chopped basil leaves brightens the flavor and adds a pop of color.
- Crumbled Bacon: For a savory, smoky kick and irresistible crispiness.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar, mozzarella, or a mixed Italian blend will melt beautifully into the warm soup, adding a cheesy richness.
- Parmesan Crisps: Thin, baked parmesan crisps offer a sophisticated, cheesy crunch.
- Red Pepper Flakes: If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle warmth.
- A Swirl of Cream: A drizzle of heavy cream, coconut milk, or even a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can add an extra layer of creaminess and visual elegance.
- Toasted Pine Nuts: For a buttery texture and nutty flavor.
- Pesto Drizzle: A small swirl of basil pesto can introduce an intense burst of herbal flavor.
Storage and Freezing Tips
This Instant Pot Tomato Soup is not only delicious freshly made but also stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers. Proper storage ensures you can savor its comforting flavors whenever a craving strikes.
How Long Will it Last in the Fridge?
Once cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftover soup to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, this delightful dish will maintain its freshness and quality for 3-4 days. Always ensure it’s tightly sealed to prevent absorption of other fridge odors and to keep it at its best. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezer Tips for Long-Term Enjoyment
Tomato soup freezes exceptionally well, making it an ideal candidate for batch cooking. Freezing allows you to have a homemade, healthy meal ready to go whenever you need it. I highly recommend using dedicated freezer soup molds from Amazon. These molds create individual portions, which are perfect for quick defrosting and prevent waste.
Once the soup is completely cooled, pour it into the molds and freeze until solid. Once frozen, you can pop out the soup pucks and transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container to save space. They will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy, you have a few options for reheating. You can defrost the frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator, then gently reheat it on the stovetop. Alternatively, for a quick solution, you can reheat the soup directly from frozen in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until melted and warm, or use a convenient appliance like a Crockpot warmer for a gradual thaw and reheat.
What to Pair with Your Delicious Soup
Tomato soup is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, creating a complete and satisfying meal. While it’s famously partnered with grilled cheese, don’t limit your options! Here are some fantastic ideas to complement your Instant Pot Tomato Soup:
- Air Fryer Grilled Cheese: The ultimate classic pairing. The crispy, cheesy goodness is simply irresistible when dipped into warm tomato soup.
- Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Breast: For a protein-packed addition, a simple grilled chicken breast can turn your soup into a heartier meal.
- Green Goddess Cobb Salad: A fresh, vibrant salad offers a delightful contrast to the rich soup, balancing your meal with crisp vegetables.
- Keto Low Carb Chicken Salad: A lighter, yet equally satisfying option, perfect for a fresh sandwich or served alongside the soup.
- Creamy Seafood Salad: For a gourmet touch, a delicate seafood salad can make an elegant pairing.
- Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of the flavorful soup.
- Simple Green Salad: A light salad with a vinaigrette dressing is always a good choice to add freshness.
- Sandwiches or Paninis: Beyond grilled cheese, any hot or cold sandwich makes for a satisfying companion.
More Instant Pot Soup Recipes
The Instant Pot is a master at creating delicious, wholesome soups with incredible speed and minimal fuss. If you’ve loved this tomato soup, you’ll definitely want to explore these other fantastic Instant Pot soup recipes:
- Chicken Lasagna Soup: All the comforting flavors of lasagna in a warm, hearty soup.
- Instant Pot Ramen: Quick and flavorful ramen for a satisfying weeknight meal.
- Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup: A rich, creamy, and low-carb take on a beloved classic.
- Instant Pot Baked Potato Soup: Indulgent and hearty, loaded with all your favorite baked potato toppings.
- Keto Zuppa Toscana Soup: A healthy, low-carb version of the Olive Garden favorite.
- Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana Soup: The classic rich and savory Italian sausage and kale soup made easy.
- Buffalo Chicken Soup: All the spicy, tangy flavors of buffalo wings in a comforting soup form.
- Instant Pot Split Pea Soup: A classic, wholesome, and incredibly satisfying pea soup.
- Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup: A vibrant and flavorful Mexican-inspired soup.
- Sweet Potato Soup: Creamy, earthy, and naturally sweet – a delightful option for any season.
Stovetop Soup Recipes
While the Instant Pot offers unparalleled speed, sometimes you might prefer the traditional simmering of a stovetop soup. These recipes are perfect for those days when you enjoy the slow development of flavors or simply don’t have a pressure cooker on hand:
- Ham Potato and Vegetable Soup: A hearty and comforting soup, perfect for using up leftover ham.
- Creamy Pumpkin Soup with Canned Pumpkin: A simple yet elegant soup, showcasing the warm, earthy flavors of pumpkin.
- Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup: The ultimate cold-weather comfort, just like grandma used to make.
Easy Instant Pot Tomato Soup
Brandi Crawford
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Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Immersion Blender
- Freezer Soup Molds
- Meal Prep Containers
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- ½ cup chopped onions I used white onion.
- ½ cup chopped celery
- ½ cup chopped carrots
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 4 cups broth I used chicken
- 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
- ¼-1/2 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- 2 teaspoons sweetener Adjust to taste.
Instructions
- Place the Instant Pot on the Saute function. Add the olive oil, chopped onions, celery, and carrots.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant. Add in the garlic and stir.
- Add in the remaining ingredients: broth, crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, dried basil and sweetener. Stir. If it’s your first time making the soup, consider adding the spices and sweetener once the soup has cooked. That way you can taste repeatedly and make adjustments to suit your needs as necessary.
- Place the lid on the Instant Pot and seal. Cook for 15 minutes on Manual > High Pressure cooking.
- When the pot indicates it is finished, allow the steam to release naturally for 10 minutes.
- Open the pot. Use an immersion blenderto blend the soup and get it creamy. You can use a standard blender if you wish.
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Notes
- I love to use organic crushed canned tomatoes. You can typically find these at most grocery stores.
- You can use whole peeled tomatoes in a can, but I would crush them first. You can also use fire roasted canned tomatoes for a nice kick!
- For fresh tomatoes, use 3-4 pounds (chopped) and pressure cook for 20 minutes with 25 minutes of natural release of steam.
- The flavor of this recipe is classic and traditional. If you want to make the soup creamy you can add ½ cup of heavy whipping cream or 4 ounces of cream cheese (after the soup has pressure cooked).
- The main ingredient is tomatoes so you can expect heavy tomato flavor. I like to season the soup with basil and Italian Seasoning, so you will taste those elements as well. To cut the acidity of the tomato flavor, I add a little sweetener. You can also use sugar. I typically like to use 3-4 teaspoons. Use however much you wish or omit it completely.
Nutrition
Serving: 1cup
Calories: 52kcal
Carbohydrates: 7g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 1g
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Nutrition Data
Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.
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