The Best Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of tomato basil soup. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you just want a cozy meal, this soup is the perfect choice. The rich tomato flavor, the hint of fresh basil, and the smooth, creamy texture make every bite delicious.

Homemade tomato soup tastes so much better than anything from a can. It’s fresh, full of flavor, and surprisingly easy to make. Plus, when you pair it with a crunchy grilled cheese or a slice of crispy bread, it’s pure comfort food heaven!

This recipe is simple yet packed with flavor. You only need a handful of ingredients, and most of them are probably already in your kitchen. If you love classic recipes with a homemade touch, you’re going to love this tomato basil soup!

Why You’ll Love This Soup

• Easy to Make – This soup comes together in under an hour, with simple steps and no fancy techniques.
• Fresh and Flavorful – The combination of ripe tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil makes the flavors pop.
• Creamy and Comforting – Blending the soup creates a silky, smooth texture that’s extra comforting.
• Perfect for Any Season – It’s warm and cozy in the winter but also great in the summer when tomatoes are at their peak.
• Pairs Well with Many Dishes – Serve it with grilled cheese, garlic bread, or even a fresh salad.

Ingredients

For the Soup

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) whole or crushed tomatoes (or 4 large fresh tomatoes, chopped)
• 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, helps balance acidity)
• ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half (for a creamy texture)
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

For Serving (Optional)

• Shredded Parmesan cheese
• Croutons or toasted bread
• Extra basil leaves for garnish

This creamy tomato basil soup is packed with flavor and so easy to make. Once you try it, you might never go back to store-bought soup again!

Kitchen Tools Needed

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the right tools to make the process easy and smooth. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large pot or Dutch oven – For cooking the soup.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – To stir the ingredients.
• Blender or immersion blender – To make the soup smooth and creamy.
• Cutting board and knife – For chopping onions, garlic, and basil.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To get the right ingredient amounts.
• Ladle – For serving the soup.

Cooking Instructions

1. Sauté the aromatics
   • Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Cook the tomatoes
   • Pour in the canned or fresh chopped tomatoes along with the vegetable broth.
   • Add salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and sugar (if using).
   • Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. This helps the flavors blend beautifully.
3. Blend the soup
   • Remove the pot from heat and carefully use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
   • If using a regular blender, let the soup cool slightly, then blend in batches. Be careful, as hot liquids can splatter!
4. Add the cream and basil
   • Return the blended soup to the pot.
   • Stir in the heavy cream and fresh chopped basil. Let it simmer for 5 more minutes.
5. Serve and enjoy
   • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.
   • Ladle it into bowls and top with shredded Parmesan cheese, croutons, or extra basil leaves.
   • Serve warm with a side of crusty bread or a gooey grilled cheese sandwich!

Tips and Tricks for Success

• For the best flavor, use ripe tomatoes – If using fresh tomatoes, make sure they’re juicy and flavorful. Roasting them before adding them to the soup can make them even sweeter!
• Blend in batches if using a regular blender – Hot soup expands in a blender, so don’t fill it all the way. Blend in small amounts with the lid slightly open to release steam.
• Adjust the creaminess – If you prefer a richer soup, add more cream. For a lighter version, use milk or leave it out entirely.
• Balance the acidity – If your soup tastes too tangy, a little sugar helps cut the acidity of the tomatoes. You can also add a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth.
• Make it ahead of time – This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just reheat and enjoy!

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about homemade tomato basil soup is how flexible it is. You can adjust the ingredients based on what you have or your dietary needs. Here are some great swaps and variations:

• Tomatoes: If fresh tomatoes aren’t in season, use canned San Marzano tomatoes for the best flavor. Fire-roasted canned tomatoes also add a smoky depth.
• Broth: Use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth for extra richness, or water if you’re out of broth.
• Cream: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk (for a dairy-free version) or Greek yogurt (for a protein boost). If you like a lighter soup, skip the cream altogether.
• Herbs & Spices: No fresh basil? Use dried basil (about 1 tablespoon). You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Extra Veggies: Add carrots, bell peppers, or celery while sautéing the onions for more depth of flavor.
• Protein Boost: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked white beans for a heartier meal.

Serving Suggestions

Tomato basil soup is delicious on its own, but pairing it with something extra makes it even better. Here are some great serving ideas:

• Classic Grilled Cheese: A crispy, buttery grilled cheese sandwich is the ultimate companion.
• Garlic Bread or Crusty Bread: Dip a slice of warm, crusty bread into the soup for the perfect bite.
• Croutons & Cheese: Top your soup with crunchy croutons and a sprinkle of Parmesan or mozzarella cheese.
• Salad Pairing: Serve with a fresh green salad, like Caesar salad or a simple arugula salad with balsamic dressing.
• Pasta Twist: Mix in some cooked pasta or tortellini for a more filling meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This soup is perfect for meal prep because it stores well and tastes even better the next day!

Storing:

• Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

• On the stove: Warm the soup over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a little broth or water.
• In the microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• From frozen: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, or reheat gently on the stove from frozen.

FAQ

1. Can I make this soup without a blender?
   Yes! If you like a chunkier texture, simply mash the tomatoes with a spoon or potato masher instead of blending.

2. Is this soup vegetarian and gluten-free?
Yes, if you use vegetable broth. To keep it gluten-free, serve it with gluten-free bread or croutons.

3. Can I make this soup spicy?
Absolutely! Add ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.

4. Can I make this soup without cream?
Yes, you can skip the cream, or use coconut milk for a dairy-free version. The soup will still be smooth and delicious!

5. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh basil gives the best flavor. If using dried, add 1 tablespoon while the soup simmers to let the flavors develop.

Now that you know everything about this creamy tomato basil soup, it’s time to make your own! Enjoy a warm, cozy bowl and let me know how it turns out!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!