Hearty Tomato Rice Soup
When the weather calls for something warm and soul-soothing, nothing hits the spot quite like a bowl of Hearty Tomato Rice Soup. It has all the cozy comfort of a classic tomato soup, but with a nourishing twist from tender cooked rice and aromatic herbs. This is a soup that feels like home in every spoonful.
Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe is also a go-to when you want something filling without fuss. The ingredients are pantry staples, and you can customize it easily with your favorite add-ins. Whether you’re cooking for the whole family or meal prepping for the week, this tomato rice soup is both satisfying and simple to whip up.
Why You’ll Love This Hearty Tomato Rice Soup
This soup checks all the boxes: comforting, easy, and loaded with flavor. The tomato base is rich and savory, balanced with the subtle sweetness of onions and the satisfying bite of cooked rice. It’s great for vegetarians as-is, and you can add in protein like shredded chicken or chickpeas for extra heartiness. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, which means you can make a big batch and enjoy it later.
What Kind of Rice Should I Use?
Long-grain white rice is the most traditional choice here, but you can also go for jasmine or basmati for a bit more fragrance. If you prefer brown rice, just note it will take longer to cook and may absorb more liquid. Already cooked rice is a time-saver, especially if you’re using leftovers.
Ingredients for the Hearty Tomato Rice Soup
The ingredients for this soup are likely already in your kitchen, making it a fantastic last-minute meal option. Each element plays a role in building that savory depth we love in comfort food soups.
- Olive oil
- Onion
- Garlic
- Crushed tomatoes
- Vegetable broth
- Cooked white rice
- Dried basil
- Oregano
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Heavy cream or coconut milk (optional, for a creamy finish)

How To Make the Hearty Tomato Rice Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until they’re soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Seasoning
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir in the dried basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar if using. Let the mixture come to a gentle boil.
Step 3: Simmer and Blend (Optional)
Reduce the heat and simmer the soup for about 15 minutes. For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend some or all of the soup.
Step 4: Stir in Rice
Add the cooked rice to the soup and stir until combined. Simmer for another 5 minutes to warm through.
Step 5: Finish with Cream (Optional)
If you’re going for a creamy version, stir in heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
How to Serve and Store Hearty Tomato Rice Soup
This soup is best served hot with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or grated parmesan on top. It pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a side salad. It serves about 4 to 6 people, depending on portion size.
For storing, let the soup cool completely and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just keep in mind the rice will soak up some of the broth, so you might want to add a splash of water or broth when reheating.
What to Serve With Hearty Tomato Rice Soup?
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Nothing beats the classic combo of tomato soup and grilled cheese. The crispy, gooey sandwich is made for dipping.
Garlic Bread
For a bold, savory side, toast up some garlic bread. It soaks up the soup beautifully.
Caesar Salad
A crisp Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and creamy dressing brings a fresh contrast to the warm soup.
Roasted Vegetables
Try pairing this soup with a side of roasted root veggies like carrots and parsnips for extra heartiness.
Savory Scones
Cheddar or herb scones make a lovely side and bring even more comfort to the table.
Crackers or Breadsticks
These are perfect for a quick crunch and easy for little hands to grab.
Baked Potatoes
A small baked potato topped with sour cream or chives turns this meal into a cozy dinner.
Want More Soup Ideas?
If hearty, warming soups are your jam, you might enjoy these other cozy favorites from the site:
- Cajun Potato Soup for a spicy southern spin.
- Mexican Sopa de Conchas with tender shell pasta in a flavorful broth.
- Creamy Chicken and Broccoli if you’re craving something extra comforting.
- Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef for a one-pot, protein-rich dinner.
- Creamy Cajun Linguine if you love that creamy, spicy twist.
Save This Recipe For Later
đŸ“Œ Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so you can find it easily next time those tomato cravings hit.
Have you tried your own twist on this soup? Maybe added spicy sausage or swapped in quinoa? Let me know in the comments, I love hearing how you make these dishes your own.
Explore even more flavorful recipes and daily comfort meals on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest. You’re sure to find a new favorite to warm up with.

Hearty Tomato Rice Soup
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Hearty Tomato Rice Soup is a comforting, easy-to-make meal featuring a rich tomato base, aromatic herbs, and tender rice. This simple tomato rice soup recipe is perfect for chilly nights, family dinners, or freezer meal prep. Vegetarian, flavorful, and nourishing with pantry ingredients.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cups cooked white rice
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent.
2. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir in dried basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar if using.
4. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Blend some or all of the soup with an immersion blender if a smoother texture is desired.
6. Add the cooked rice and stir. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
7. For a creamy version, stir in heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot.
Notes
Use leftover rice to save time.
Add protein like shredded chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg


