Appetizers & Starters > Soups & Broths > Hot Soups > Tomato Basil Soup

Classic Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of our creamy tomato basil soup. This easy-to-follow recipe delivers a velvety texture and a delightful balance of sweet tomatoes and aromatic basil, perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner. This is a must-try for any soup lover. It can be prepared with fresh or canned tomatoes.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Servings
6
Ingredients
  • 28 oz Canned Crushed Tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Basil Leaves
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion
  • 3 cloves Garlic
  • 4 cups Vegetable Broth
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper

Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir in the sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Simmer and Blend

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. After simmering, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and blend until smooth. Return the blended soup to the pot.

Add Cream and Basil

Stir in the heavy cream and chopped fresh basil. Heat through gently, but do not boil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh basil leaves or a swirl of cream, if desired. Consider pairing with grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread for dipping.

← Classic Cream of Mushroom Soup Classic French Onion Soup →

FAQ

  • Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

    Yes, you can use about 3 pounds of fresh tomatoes. Blanch them, peel the skin, and then chop them before adding them to the pot. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
  • Can I make this soup vegan?

    Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. Ensure the vegetable broth is also vegan.
  • How do I store leftover tomato basil soup?

    Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
  • Can I freeze this soup?

    Yes, tomato basil soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.