Name: Instant Pot Tomato Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large carrot, chopped; 1 shallot, chopped; 1 stalk celery, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cups chicken stock (or vegetable stock); 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; ½ cup heavy cream

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 1 review

If you’ve ever wished for a comforting, velvety tomato soup that comes together effortlessly yet tastes like it simmered for hours, this Instant Pot Tomato Soup Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. With rich flavors from fresh veggies, savory herbs, and just the right touch of creaminess, this soup is fast to prepare, deeply satisfying, and absolutely perfect for cozy nights or speedy dinners. The Instant Pot makes it a breeze to meld all these ingredients into a luscious, smooth soup that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows ten white bowls and two clear glass measuring jugs arranged on a white marbled surface. From top left to bottom right, there is a glass jug filled with light brown liquid, an open can filled with thick red tomato puree, a small bowl with chopped celery in light and medium green shades, a small bowl with finely chopped pale yellow garlic, a bowl with sliced bright orange carrots, a bowl with chopped purple and white onions, a bowl with yellow olive oil, a small bowl with white salt and black pepper ground on one half, a bowl with two smooth bright red tomato paste scoops, and at the bottom right, another glass jug with a white creamy liquid. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients may be simple and familiar, but each one plays an essential role in building the bold, rich, and silky character of this soup. From the aromatic vegetables to the hearty crushed tomatoes and finishing cream, every component adds depth and balance.

Olive oil: Adds a fruity richness and helps soften the vegetables while sautéing.

Large carrot (chopped): Imparts subtle sweetness and vibrant color to the base.
Shallot (chopped): Brings a mild onion flavor with a hint of garlic for complexity.
Celery stalk (chopped): Offers an earthy, aromatic crunch that rounds out the vegetable mix.

Garlic cloves (minced): Infuses pungent warmth and depth in every spoonful.
Chicken or vegetable stock (2 cups): Forms a flavorful liquid foundation that elevates the tomatoes without overpowering them.
28-ounce can crushed tomatoes: Provides the hearty, thick tomato goodness that’s the star of this recipe.

Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Concentrates the tomato flavor for a rich and intense taste.
Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon): Balances acidity and brightens the overall flavor of the soup.
Dried Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Adds a fragrant herbal touch to round out the flavors beautifully.

Heavy cream (½ cup): Creates a silky, luxurious texture and mellows the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to your personal taste and bringing all the flavors together.

How to Make Instant Pot Tomato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Your Veggies

Start by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté Normal function and heating the olive oil. Add the chopped carrot, shallot, and celery. Cook with occasional stirring until these veggies become tender and fragrant, about five minutes. This step builds the flavor foundation, softening the vegetables and releasing their natural sweetness.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Once the base veggies are softened, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for just one more minute. This quick step ensures the garlic flavor is fresh and vibrant without becoming bitter or burnt.

Step 3: Pour in Stock and Scrape

Add your chicken or vegetable stock to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom — those bits are flavor gold and help deepen the soup’s taste.

Step 4: Combine Tomatoes and Seasonings

Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, granulated sugar, and dried Italian seasoning. Mix everything thoroughly so the flavors meld beautifully before sealing the pot.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Program your Instant Pot to Pressure Cook (Manual) for 10 minutes. This short but intense cooking melds the ingredients and softens the tomatoes perfectly without losing their freshness.

Step 6: Natural Pressure Release

After cooking completes, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. This gentle release helps maintain the soup’s delicate texture and avoids splattering.

Step 7: Quick Venting

Carefully switch the valve to venting to let out any remaining pressure before opening the pot.

Step 8: Blend Until Smooth

Using an immersion blender, puree the soup directly in the pot until silky and lump-free. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender and combine until smooth.

Step 9: Stir in Cream and Season

Finally, stir in the heavy cream to give the soup its signature smooth, velvety texture. Taste and add salt and pepper to your liking, ensuring your Instant Pot Tomato Soup Recipe is perfectly seasoned.

Step 10: Serve Warm and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and prepare to wow your taste buds.

How to Serve Instant Pot Tomato Soup Recipe

A white bowl filled with smooth orange tomato soup forms the base layer, topped with four small golden toasted bread cubes arranged in the center. Bright red halved cherry tomatoes are scattered around the bread cubes, adding pops of color, while a fresh green basil leaf rests on the left side. A woman's hand holds a spoon near the bowl, lifting some soup, with a white marbled surface underneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Brighten each bowl with fresh basil leaves and crunchy croutons to add color, aroma, and delightful texture that elevates this comforting soup. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a drizzle of good olive oil can finish it off beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair your Instant Pot Tomato Soup Recipe with classic grilled cheese sandwiches for an unbeatable combo, or keep it light with a crisp green salad. Garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls also complement the soup’s rich flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more elegant touch, serve the soup in mini bread bowls or swirl a pesto drizzle on top. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche paired with fresh herbs to make a striking presentation that’s sure to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. This Instant Pot Tomato Soup Recipe actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully, making it a perfect recipe to batch cook. Cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to three months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to warm evenly. If needed, add a splash of stock or cream to refresh the texture and richness.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Simply use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock and substitute the heavy cream for coconut milk or any plant-based cream for that same velvety texture.

Do I have to use an Instant Pot for this recipe?

While the Instant Pot speeds up cooking and melds flavors beautifully, you can make a delicious tomato soup on the stove. Just simmer the ingredients for about 30-40 minutes and blend as directed.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes during the sauté step, or stir in some hot sauce or a dash of smoked paprika just before serving for a gentle kick.

Is it necessary to use tomato paste?

Tomato paste boosts the depth of tomato flavor and thickens the soup slightly, making it richer and more robust. It’s highly recommended but you can reduce it if you prefer a lighter tomato presence.

Can I substitute heavy cream?

Yes, for a lighter option, use half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind the soup will be less creamy and silky. Coconut cream is a great dairy-free alternative with a subtle tropical note.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about how quickly and easily this Instant Pot Tomato Soup Recipe comes together while delivering such rich, comforting flavor. It’s proof that simple ingredients and a smart cooking method can create something truly special. Next time you crave that cozy tomato soup experience, give this recipe a try—I promise it will quickly become one of your favorite go-tos.

Instant Pot Tomato Soup Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need