Introduction
Few things are as comforting and soul-warming as a bowl of Creamy Tomato Basil Soup. This classic dish combines the richness of ripe tomatoes, the sweetness of sautéed onions and garlic, and the freshness of basil, all blended together into a velvety smooth soup. Finished with a touch of cream, it strikes the perfect balance between tangy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors.
This soup is timeless—it’s cozy on a rainy day, elegant enough to serve at a dinner party, and kid-friendly when paired with grilled cheese sandwiches. It’s a dish that turns simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
Why I Love This Recipe ❤️
I love this recipe because it’s pure comfort in a bowl. The creaminess makes it indulgent, but the fresh tomatoes and basil keep it light and refreshing. Every spoonful feels like a hug—it’s nostalgic, cozy, and always satisfying.
What makes it even better is how versatile it is. You can make it with canned tomatoes when fresh ones aren’t in season, and you can adjust the creaminess to your liking. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for entertaining.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
- Classic flavor combo: tomato + basil = unbeatable.
- Simple ingredients turned into a gourmet-quality soup.
- Quick and easy—ready in under an hour.
- Family-friendly—kids love it with grilled cheese.
- Healthy & adaptable—lighten it up or make it extra creamy.
Recipe Information
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories per Serving: ~220 kcal
Cuisine & Course
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Course: Soup / Starter / Light Main
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (28 oz each) whole peeled tomatoes (or 6 fresh ripe tomatoes, roasted/peeled)
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1 tsp sugar (balances acidity of tomatoes)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Garnish (optional):
- Fresh basil leaves
- Drizzle of cream or olive oil
- Parmesan cheese
Simple Cooking Directions
- Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil.
- Add tomatoes, broth, and seasonings; simmer.
- Blend until smooth, then stir in cream and basil.
- Adjust seasoning, garnish, and serve hot.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes & Broth
- Pour in canned tomatoes (with juice) or roasted fresh tomatoes.
- Add chicken or vegetable broth.
- Stir in sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes.
Step 3: Blend the Soup
- Remove pot from heat.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
(Or carefully blend in batches in a countertop blender.)
Step 4: Add Cream & Basil
- Return soup to low heat.
- Stir in heavy cream and fresh basil leaves.
- Simmer 5 minutes to meld flavors.
Step 5: Taste & Serve
- Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or sugar.
- Ladle into bowls, garnish with basil, cream swirls, or Parmesan.
How to Serve
- Serve hot with grilled cheese sandwiches, garlic bread, or crusty baguette.
- Great as a starter for pasta, chicken, or seafood dinners.
- Serve in mugs for a cozy, casual meal.
Additional Recipe Tips
- Roast fresh tomatoes for deeper flavor before blending.
- Add a Parmesan rind to the soup while simmering for richness.
- For extra silkiness, strain the blended soup through a fine mesh sieve.
- To lighten up, replace cream with milk or coconut milk.
Variations
Spicy Tomato Basil Soup – Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
- Roasted Red Pepper & Tomato Soup – Add roasted red peppers for smoky sweetness.
- Dairy-Free Version – Use coconut milk instead of cream.
- Chunky Style – Blend only half the soup, leaving some tomato pieces whole.
- Protein Boost – Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or beans.
Freezing & Storage
- Refrigeration: Store in airtight containers up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. (For best results, freeze before adding cream; stir in cream when reheating.)
- Reheating: Warm gently on stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently.
Special Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Immersion blender (or countertop blender)
- Ladle & soup bowls
Conclusion
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is the perfect marriage of rich, tangy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and velvety cream. It’s elegant yet comforting, quick yet flavorful, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re enjoying it with a grilled cheese sandwich on a cozy afternoon or serving it as the starter to a sophisticated dinner, this soup always delivers warmth and satisfaction.
It’s a must-have recipe in your collection—simple, wholesome, and absolutely delicious.
