Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Name: Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Warm Plates

This creamy tomato basil soup is a comforting classic that brings together the rich flavors of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil, perfect for any season.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-01T17:22:30.014Z

This creamy tomato basil soup is a comforting dish that evokes memories of cozy nights in and warm family gatherings. The blend of tomatoes and basil results in a luscious, velvety soup that pairs perfectly with crusty bread.

        Why You Will Love This Soup
        Rich, creamy texture that soothes the soul
Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights

      

A Comforting Classic

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of creamy tomato basil soup to bring warmth and comfort to your day. This classic recipe combines the rich, tangy flavor of ripe tomatoes with the fragrant notes of fresh basil, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also nourishing. Whether it’s a cool autumn evening or a chilly winter day, this soup provides a perfect way to warm up.

The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, it transforms into a luxurious dish that feels indulgent yet is incredibly easy to prepare. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you need a quick, satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Versatile Pairings

Creamy tomato basil soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a classic combination, serve it with a grilled cheese sandwich for a nostalgic touch that evokes childhood memories. The crunch of the toasted bread complements the smoothness of the soup perfectly, making each bite delightful.

If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider pairing your soup with a fresh garden salad. A mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will enhance the flavors of the soup while providing a refreshing balance to the meal. This combination is not only delicious but also healthy, making it a great choice for those watching their diet.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious creamy tomato basil soup.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped and ready before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy tomato basil soup.

Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend just half of the soup.

Stir in Cream and Basil

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.

Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional basil if desired.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover creamy tomato basil soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To ensure the best flavor and texture, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to the container. This will help prevent condensation and maintain its creamy consistency.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Avoid reheating in the microwave if possible, as it may alter the texture.

Customizing Your Soup

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can add extra vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers during the sautéing step for added nutrition and flavor. Blending in a handful of spinach or kale at the end can also boost the soup’s health benefits without compromising its taste.

If you prefer a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when you stir in the cream. For a different flavor profile, consider incorporating a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese before serving. These small adjustments can elevate your soup and make it uniquely yours.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. About 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes should work, just make sure to peel and chop them.

→ Is this soup freezable?

Yes, you can freeze the soup. Just make sure to leave out the cream until you're ready to reheat it.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches, croutons, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian as it uses vegetable broth.