This fire-roasted tomato and bacon soup is a simple, homemade tomato soup with a subtle smoky edge. Canned fire-roasted tomatoes make it a practical choice for a weeknight dinner that's ready to serve in under an hour.
In a heavy-bottomed soup pot over medium heat, cook the bacon pieces until browned and crisp, 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Pour off the rendered fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pot.
Add the olive oil to the pot and warm over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), broth, and thyme. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove the soup from the heat. Using an immersion blender, purée until smooth. (If using a countertop blender, allow the soup to cool slightly, blend in batches, and vent the lid to prevent pressure buildup.)
Return the soup to low heat if needed. Stir in the cooked bacon and 2 tablespoons of cream. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding additional cream if desired. Serve hot.