Creamy tomato basil soup

When it comes to cozy and comforting meals, nothing beats a warm bowl of creamy tomato basil soup.

This classic dish combines the tangy richness of ripe tomatoes with the aromatic sweetness of fresh basil, all blended into a smooth, velvety texture that makes every spoonful satisfying.

Whether you enjoy it with a grilled cheese sandwich, crusty bread, or simply on its own, this soup is a timeless favorite for family dinners, chilly evenings, or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

• Simple ingredients – made mostly with pantry staples like canned tomatoes, broth, and cream.

• Quick and easy – ready in about 30 minutes.

• Rich and flavorful – fresh basil and garlic elevate the taste.

• Customizable – make it vegan or dairy-free with a few simple swaps.

creamy tomato basil soup

This creamy tomato basil soup is a rich, comforting, and easy-to-make classic that blends ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and cream into a smooth and flavorful bowl perfect for any meal.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Soup

Cuisine: American, Italian

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion diced
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 2 cans 28 oz each crushed tomatoes (or fresh roasted tomatoes)
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon sugar balances acidity
• 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano optional
• 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for dairy-free
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves chopped
• Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Method

 

1. Sauté – Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Simmer – Add crushed tomatoes, broth, sugar, salt, pepper, and oregano. Stir well and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 15–20 minutes.
3. Blend – Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth (or carefully blend in batches).
4. Finish – Return soup to low heat. Stir in heavy cream and fresh basil. Simmer for 5 more minutes.
5. Serve – Ladle into bowls, top with Parmesan and basil, and serve with crusty bread or grilled cheese.

Notes

• For extra flavor, roast fresh tomatoes with garlic and onion before blending.
• Make it vegan by using coconut milk or cashew cream.
• Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.

2. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth. Add sugar, salt, pepper, and oregano. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

3. Blend Until Smooth

Using an immersion blender (or carefully transferring in batches to a countertop blender), blend the soup until smooth and creamy.

4. Stir in Cream and Basil

Return the soup to low heat. Stir in heavy cream and fresh basil, then simmer for another 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with extra basil leaves or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and serve hot with crusty bread or grilled cheese.

What to Serve with Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

This soup is delicious on its own, but here are some tasty pairings:

• Classic grilled cheese sandwich

• Garlic bread or sourdough toast

• Side salad with balsamic vinaigrette

• Cheese-stuffed breadsticks

FAQs About Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes! Roasting fresh tomatoes with garlic and onion before blending will give the soup an even fresher and slightly smoky flavor.

Q: How can I make it thicker?

Let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid, or stir in extra cream for a richer consistency.

Q: Can I freeze creamy tomato basil soup?

Absolutely. Allow the soup to cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

A bowl of creamy tomato basil soup is more than just a meal—it’s comfort in a bowl. With its smooth texture, rich tomato flavor, and fragrant basil, it’s the perfect recipe to keep in your regular rotation.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this classic dish is always a crowd-pleaser.