Hearty Tomato Rice Soup

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When the air turns crisp and you crave something warm and comforting, Hearty Tomato Rice Soup is the answer. This cozy bowl brings together the richness of tomatoes, the wholesome texture of rice, and a medley of savory herbs for a meal that soothes from the inside out. Whether you’re curled up on the couch or feeding a hungry family, this soup delivers the kind of satisfaction only a homemade dish can.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or lazy Sunday lunches, this soup is a breeze to whip up and easily customizable. You can make it vegan or add some shredded chicken or sausage for a protein boost. It also keeps well, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or leftovers that only get better with time.

Why You’ll Love This Hearty Tomato Rice Soup

• Quick and satisfying: Ready in under an hour, this soup brings maximum comfort with minimal effort.
• Versatile and customizable: Add your favorite proteins or veggies to make it your own.
• One-pot wonder: Less cleanup, more flavor.
• Perfect for all seasons: Light enough for spring and summer, hearty enough for fall and winter.

What Kind of Rice Should I Use?

Long-grain white rice is the classic choice—it cooks quickly and gives the soup a nice body without turning mushy. However, you can easily substitute with jasmine rice, basmati, or even brown rice (just adjust cooking time accordingly). If you have cooked rice on hand, just add it in toward the end to keep it from overcooking.

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Ingredients for the Hearty Tomato Rice Soup

Every ingredient in this soup plays a key role in creating deep, savory flavor and comforting texture.

• Olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables and adding a rich, silky base.
• Onion – Brings sweetness and depth to the soup as it softens and caramelizes.
• Garlic – Adds a punch of aroma and classic flavor.
• Carrots and celery – Essential aromatics that add layers of flavor and subtle sweetness.
• Crushed tomatoes – The star of the soup, giving it a bold and tangy tomato base.
• Vegetable broth – Forms the liquid base, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes.
• White rice – Provides a hearty bite and makes the soup feel like a full meal.
• Bay leaf – Infuses a hint of herbal depth.
• Dried basil and oregano – Classic Italian herbs that bring warmth and complexity.
• Salt and pepper – For seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley – Adds color and freshness right before serving.

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, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Base

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine. Add in the bay leaf, dried basil, and oregano. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 3: Simmer and Add Rice

Reduce the heat to a simmer and stir in the rice. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 20–25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and cooked through.

Step 4: Season and Finish

Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Stir in freshly chopped parsley before serving.

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How to Serve and Store This Hearty Tomato Rice Soup

This soup is incredibly flexible when it comes to serving. It’s a complete meal in itself, thanks to the rice and vegetables, but pairs beautifully with a few side options too. It serves about 4 to 6 people, making it great for family meals or small gatherings.

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely and transfer it into airtight containers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions—just be aware the rice may expand slightly when reheated. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.

What to Serve With Hearty Tomato Rice Soup?

Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the rich tomato broth.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

The gooeyness of grilled cheese and the tangy soup is a match made in comfort food heaven.

Side Salad

A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette helps balance the heartiness of the soup.

Roasted Vegetables

Seasonal roasted vegetables make a warm and colorful side.

Crackers or Breadsticks

Crunchy, salty sides like crackers or breadsticks offer textural contrast.

Parmesan Cheese

A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds a savory depth to each bowl.

Pan-Seared Sausages

If you’re looking to bulk it up with protein, serve alongside some sliced sausages.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use cooked rice instead of raw rice?
Yes! If you already have cooked rice, add it during the last 5 minutes of simmering. This prevents it from becoming mushy.

Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely. Just make sure to use vegetable broth and skip any dairy garnishes. The soup is naturally vegan as written.

How do I make it creamier?
For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of coconut milk, heavy cream, or a swirl of cashew cream before serving.

Can I freeze Hearty Tomato Rice Soup?
Yes, but note that the rice will continue to absorb liquid as it sits, so the texture may change slightly upon reheating. Add a little broth or water when reheating to adjust the consistency.

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Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so you can come back to it anytime: Meals We Share by Sally on Pinterest.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use fresh herbs or dry? Did you sneak in extra veggies or maybe a bit of spice?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook better every day.

Conclusion

Hearty Tomato Rice Soup is everything we love about comforting homemade meals—simple, satisfying, and made with pantry staples. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch idea, a cozy dinner plan, or something to meal prep for the week, this soup delivers warmth and flavor in every bite. Give it a try and make it your own!

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