What to Eat With Tomato Soup in 2025: 8 Picks!

Tomato soup is warm, comforting, and endlessly satisfying, but what you serve with it can take the whole meal to the next level. The right sides and pairings can add texture, contrast, or just a little extra indulgence.

I’ve rounded up some of the greatest-tasting options to pair with tomato soup. From crunchy sandwiches to fresh salads and savory bites, these options bring balance and variety to your bowl. Check these out now!

All the recipes on this page are carefully crafted by our team, including our in-house nutritionist, who also calculates the nutritional information provided. While we strive for accuracy, please note that actual values may vary based on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and preparation methods.

1. Tasty Breakfast or Lunch Frittata

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.

2. Whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

3. Sauté onion and bell pepper in olive oil in an oven-safe skillet until soft.

4. Add spinach and cook for 1 more minute.

5. Pour in the egg mixture and sprinkle cheese on top.

6. Let it cook on the stovetop for 2–3 minutes until edges begin to set.

7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes until fully set.

8. Slice into equal-sized pieces, serve, & enjoy!

Overview 🔍

The savory, creamy texture of a frittata pairs perfectly with the tangy brightness of tomato soup. The eggs give it richness without being too heavy, and the added vegetables bring freshness and variety to the meal. It’s a balanced combo that feels complete without needing bread or meat.

I like this pairing when I want something filling but not too indulgent. It’s high in protein, takes very little prep time, and you can use whatever’s already in your fridge. Great when you want a healthier option that still tastes satisfying. 

2. Hearty Tomato Soup With Elbow Macaroni Pasta

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Cook elbow macaroni until just al dente, then drain.

3. Heat tomato soup in a saucepan over medium heat.

4. Stir in the cooked macaroni and simmer for 3–5 minutes.

5. Serve hot with a sprinkle of cheese if desired.

Overview 🔍

Adding pasta to tomato soup turns it into a more substantial meal without messing with the soup’s core flavor. The soft macaroni makes it extra comforting and gives the soup more body, which is especially appealing on cold days or when you're craving something simple and familiar.

This is one of my go-to upgrades when I want tomato soup to feel like a “real” dinner. It’s super easy, requires no chopping, and works with any store-bought soup. I also love that it’s budget-friendly and kid-approved!

3. Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Soften the butter and heat olive oil in a medium pot over medium-high heat.

2. Cook pancetta for 4–5 minutes until crispy, then drain excess oil.

3. Add mirepoix and red pepper flakes to the pot, season, and cook for 2–3 minutes.

4. Add crushed tomatoes, demi-glace, and water. Simmer 5–7 minutes until thickened.

5. Stir in cream and cook for 1 more minute. Season to taste and turn off heat.

6. Meanwhile, thinly slice cheeses and build sandwiches with bread and cheese.

7. Spread garlic butter on the outside of each sandwich.

8. Grill sandwiches in a pan over medium heat, covered loosely with foil, for 2–4 minutes per side.

9. Slice sandwiches and serve with soup, topped with Parmesan.

Overview 🔍

Grilled cheese and tomato soup are a classic pairing, and this version adds a serious flavor upgrade. The garlic-herb crust on the sandwich brings extra crunch and depth, while the pancetta in the soup adds richness that balances the creamy tomato base perfectly. Together, they hit all the warm, savory notes.

This one’s a bit more indulgent, but totally worth it. I like it when I want something cozy and filling that doesn’t feel like a shortcut meal. The pancetta and demi-glace give the soup a restaurant-level finish, and the sandwich is bold without being greasy.

4. Chicken Quesadillas

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Dice chicken.

2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

3. Add chicken and season with salt, pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika.

4. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the chicken is heated through and well coated with spices. 

5. If in doubt, use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165ºF or 75ºC.

6. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cheese, onion, and bell pepper.

7. Lay tortillas flat and evenly distribute the chicken mixture over half of each tortilla.

8. Fold the tortillas in half to form a quesadilla.

9. Heat a little more olive oil in the skillet and cook each quesadilla for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and the cheese is melted.

10. Slice into wedges and serve warm.

Overview 🔍

Chicken quesadillas complement tomato soup by adding a savory and crunchy texture, with the smoky chicken bringing depth to each bite. The melted cheese and spices bring out the richness of the soup, making for a delicious pairing. 

This is one of my favorite go-to meals because it’s quick, flavorful, and versatile. Using leftover chicken or a store-bought rotisserie chicken makes it even easier, and cleanup is a breeze. And, it’s a much tastier and more exciting alternative to regular grilled cheese sandwiches! 

5. “Everything” Chopped Salad & Creamy Tomato Soup

Method 🧑‍🍳

For the soup (stovetop method):

1. Remove soup bag from cup and place it in a pot of rapidly boiling water.

2. Boil for 20 minutes, then carefully remove the bag and cut a corner with scissors to pour the soup into a serving bowl.

For the soup (microwave method): 

1. Cut a corner of the soup bag and pour it into a microwave-safe bowl.

2. Cover loosely with a paper towel and microwave for 5–6 minutes, stirring halfway through.

3. Carefully remove and pour into a serving bowl.

For the salad:

• Refrigerate until use and serve as is.

Overview 🔍

This meal delivers the perfect balance of creamy tomato soup with a crunchy, refreshing salad. The smooth soup pairs beautifully with the crisp textures of the chopped salad, offering a light contrast to the richness of the soup.

I love how simple and quick this meal is, especially on days when I’m short on time. The pre-packaged ingredients from Home Chef make this an incredibly convenient prepared meal, and it’s still a wholesome meal to enjoy.

6. Linguine Aglio e Olio (Linguine With Garlic and Olive Oil)

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Cook the linguine in salted water until al dente.

2. Heat olive oil in a pan, add garlic, and sauté until golden.

3. Stir in red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

4. Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of water.

5. Toss the pasta in the garlic oil, adding pasta water as needed.

6. Serve with parsley and Parmesan.

Overview 🔍

Aglio e olio pairs beautifully with the acidity of the tomato soup thanks to the rich olive oil and zesty garlic. The red pepper flakes add just the right amount of heat to top things off.

I love making this when I’m short on time but want something satisfying. It’s quick, easy, and doesn't require any special ingredients. It’s light but still filling, so it’s a great way to elevate your tomato soup night without feeling too heavy.

7. Kale Salad With Chopped Nuts, Dried Fruit, and Vinaigrette

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Whisk olive oil, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.

2. Toss kale with vinaigrette, nuts, and dried fruit.

3. Top with feta if using and serve.

Overview 🔍

Kale salad adds crunch, freshness, and just a touch of sweetness to tomato soup, helping to balance the soup’s richness. The nuts bring a bit of texture contrast, and the vinaigrette gives it a sharp brightness that enhances the flavors in the soup.

I’ll often reach for this salad when I want something easy, nutritious, and fast. It takes just minutes to throw together and works great as a refreshing contrast to warm tomato soup without overpowering it.

8. Easy Bacon & Cheese Quiche

Method 🧑‍🍳

• Preheat oven to 375°F.

• Cook onion in olive oil until soft.

• Whisk eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.

• Place cheese, bacon, and onion in pie crust.

• Pour egg mixture over top.

• Bake 35–40 min or until set and golden.

• Cool slightly before slicing.

Overview 🔍

This quiche brings a buttery, savory contrast to tomato soup – the eggs and cheese mellow out the soup’s acidity, while the bacon adds a tremendous amount of smoky flavor. The flaky crust also helps break up the texture for a more satisfying combo.

When I’m craving comfort food but don’t want to fuss, this is a go-to. It’s hearty, easy to prep ahead, and works well as breakfast, lunch, or dinner with tomato soup on the side.

FAQ

What foods go well with tomato soup?

Tomato soup pairs best with foods that balance or contrast its bright, tangy flavor. Rich, cheesy dishes, garlicky pastas, fresh salads, and buttery pastries all help mellow out the acidity. Ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and creamy dairy also enhance the depth of the soup, while crunchy or hearty textures create a more satisfying bite.

If you're looking for a simple example, try the Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese with Pancetta. The mix of smoky meats, gooey cheese, and crisp sourdough hits every note that tomato soup needs to shine.

What complements tomato soup?

Tomato soup is complemented by dishes that offer richness, texture, or a bit of spice. Something creamy or savory, like cheese, bacon, or olive oil, balances the tangy tomatoes, while a crisp or chewy texture adds interest to each spoonful. Dishes with a hint of heat or sweetness also work surprisingly well.

One great example is the Linguine Aglio e Olio. The garlicky olive oil base and chili flakes give the soup a bold counterpoint without overwhelming its flavor.

What meal can I make with tomato soup?

Tomato soup becomes a complete meal when paired with something that adds protein, fiber, or healthy fats. Think grilled sandwiches, salads with nuts and cheese, or quiches packed with eggs and bacon. It’s all about finding balance – combining the soup’s smoothness with something filling and flavorful.

For a great full meal idea, the Easy Bacon & Cheese Quiche checks every box. It’s hearty, savory, and has enough protein to keep you full, all while being easy to prep alongside your soup.

What sides do you eat with tomato soup?

Good sides for tomato soup range from crisp salads and cheesy breads to savory pastries or pastas. A crunchy or creamy side creates contrast, while garlic, herbs, and spices help round out the overall flavor. The key is to find something that doesn’t overpower the soup but still stands on its own.

Try the Kale Salad with Chopped Nuts and Dried Fruit if you want something refreshing and nutritious. The vinaigrette and chewy fruit bring brightness that plays really well with a warm, rich tomato soup.