Homemade Campbell Old Fashioned Tomato Rice Soup Recipe: A Healthier, Homemade Classic

Category: Soup

Introduction

Campbell’s Old Fashioned Tomato Rice Soup has been a comforting staple in many households for decades. First introduced in the mid-20th century, this iconic soup quickly became a favorite for its creamy, slightly sweet tomato flavor and the subtle texture of rice. It’s a nostalgic reminder of childhood lunches, a quick fix for a chilly evening, or a soothing remedy when feeling under the weather. However, store-bought soups often come with added preservatives, high sodium, and refined ingredients.

Making this soup at home allows you to enjoy the same comforting taste with the freedom to customize. By using fresh, wholesome ingredients, you can reduce the sodium content, cut down on added sugars, and even boost the nutritional profile by incorporating more vegetables or whole grains. Plus, homemade soup is cost-effective and can be tailored to suit dietary preferences, whether you’re gluten-free, vegan, or low-carb.

I remember growing up with Campbell’s soups as a quick lunch option. But when I started cooking, I realized how easy it was to recreate these favorites at home. The first time I made this tomato rice soup from scratch, I was amazed at how much fresher and vibrant the flavors were compared to the canned version. It’s become a staple in my kitchen, especially during the colder months.

Why Make It at Home?

• Healthier Ingredients: Control the amount of sodium, sugar, and preservatives.
• Customizable: Adjust spices, add extra veggies, or use different types of rice.
• Cost-Effective: Makes a large batch for a fraction of the cost of multiple cans.
• Fresh Flavor: No artificial additives, just pure, wholesome taste.

Personal Anecdote

I grew up with Campbell’s soups as a quick lunch option, but when I started cooking, I realized how easy it was to recreate these favorites at home. The first time I made this tomato rice soup from scratch, I was amazed at how much fresher and vibrant the flavors were compared to the canned version. It’s become a staple in my kitchen, especially during the colder months.

Recipe Details

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cook Time:

30 minutes

Total Time:

45 minutes

Yield:

6 servings

Ingredients

Aromatics:

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped (1.5 cups or 150g)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced (1 tbsp or 15g)
• 2 medium carrots, finely chopped (1 cup or 100g)
• 1 medium celery stalk, finely chopped (1/2 cup or 50g)

Wet Ingredients:

• 2 cups (475ml) vegetable or chicken broth (low-sodium)
• 1 can (14.5 oz or 410g) crushed tomatoes (preferably no added salt)
• 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk or plant-based milk (optional, for creaminess)

Grains:

• 1/2 cup (100g) uncooked white or brown rice

Seasonings:

• 1 tsp (5g) dried basil
• 1 tsp (5g) dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp (2g) paprika
• 1/2 tsp (2g) black pepper
• 1/4 tsp (1g) cayenne pepper (optional, for a hint of heat)
• Salt, to taste (start with 1/2 tsp or 2g and adjust)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 tbsp (15g) tomato paste (for deeper tomato flavor)
• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh parsley or dill (for garnish)

Instructions

• Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and translucent.

• Add Seasonings: Stir in the basil, oregano, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.

• Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and tomato paste (if using). Stir well to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

• Cook the Rice: Add the uncooked rice to the pot, stirring to coat the rice with the tomato mixture. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the soup has thickened slightly.

• Adjust Consistency and Seasoning: If the soup becomes too thick, add a little more broth or water. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

• Add Creaminess (Optional): For a creamier soup, stir in the milk or plant-based milk and let it heat through for 2-3 minutes.

• Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired.

Variations

Low-Sodium Version:

• Use no-salt-added crushed tomatoes and low-sodium broth.
• Omit or reduce the added salt.

Spicy Version:

• Add more cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for extra heat.

Smoky Version:

• Add 1/2 tsp (2g) smoked paprika or 1-2 tbsp (15-30g) chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.

Gluten-Free Version:

• Ensure the broth and spices are gluten-free.

Vegan Version:

• Use plant-based milk and a vegetable broth.

Pro Tips

• Layered Flavor: Sautéing the aromatics until they’re soft and lightly caramelized builds a rich, depthful flavor base.
• Rice Choice: White rice cooks faster and gives a lighter texture, while brown rice adds more fiber and a nuttier flavor.
• Tomato Intensity: For a more intense tomato flavor, roast 2 cups of fresh tomatoes in the oven until soft, then blend and add to the pot.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
  Yes! Use 3-4 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes or 2 cups of roasted and blended tomatoes for a fresher taste.

• What if I don’t have rice?
  Substitute with quinoa, barley, or even small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni.

• Can I make this in a slow cooker?
  Yes! Sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours.

• How do I make it thicker?
  Simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes or add a slurry of 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water.

• Can I freeze this soup?
  Yes! Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth if needed.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Pairing: Serve with a grilled cheese sandwich or crackers.
• Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, ground beef, or tofu for added protein.
• Garden Fresh: Top with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
• Side Dish: Use as a base for other soups or stews.

Conclusion

This homemade version of Campbell’s Old Fashioned Tomato Rice Soup captures the comforting, nostalgic flavor of the original while offering a healthier, customizable alternative. With fewer preservatives, less sodium, and the option to add fresh ingredients, this recipe is a win for both taste and nutrition. It’s perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or a cozy night in. Give it a try and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a beloved classic from scratch!