Creamy Tomato and Basil Soup

Name: Creamy Tomato and Basil Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, 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: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making this Creamy Tomato and Basil Soup, especially on chilly days. The blend of ripe tomatoes with aromatic basil creates a comforting and soothing meal that warms the soul. It’s simple to prepare and invites the fragrant taste of fresh basil right into your kitchen. Plus, the creamy texture from the added cream makes each sip feel indulgent. This recipe comes together beautifully in just a short time, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a leisurely lunch. You’re going to love it!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T00:19:28.025Z

When I first tried making this soup, I was amazed at how the simplest ingredients could create such a rich flavor. Roasting the tomatoes enhances their sweetness, while fresh basil brings a delightful aromatic touch that elevates the dish. Using a high-quality vegetable broth is a game-changer, as it further deepens the soup's flavor profile without overpowering it.

One tip I’d love to share is to finish the soup with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese just before serving. It adds a lovely nutty flavor that complements the tomatoes perfectly. Trust me, you’ll want to make this soup a staple in your home recipe collection!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and comforting flavors in every bowl
Simple ingredients come together in no time
Fresh basil adds a vibrant touch

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is essential for enhancing the flavors of this Creamy Tomato and Basil Soup. Fresh basil not only elevates the dish with its aromatic scent but also adds a vibrant color that makes the soup visually appealing. Look for basil that’s deep green and fragrant, as this will yield the best flavor. I recommend using ripe, in-season tomatoes or high-quality canned tomatoes, as they provide the natural sweetness and acidity that balance beautifully with the cream.

Tomatoes are the star of the show in this recipe, and their quality significantly impacts the overall taste. If you're using canned tomatoes, opt for San Marzano varieties, known for their rich flavor. If you have access to fresh heirloom tomatoes, roast them in the oven with a drizzle of olive oil to intensify their sweetness before adding them to the soup.

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving a velvety smooth texture is vital for a creamy soup. If using a blender, blend the soup in small batches to avoid overflow and ensure an even consistency. While blending, stop to check the texture and adjust as necessary; you want the soup to be completely smooth without any bits of tomato or onion for that indulgent mouthfeel. A good immersion blender is an excellent tool for this job since it allows for easy blending directly in the pot.

When adding the heavy cream, do so slowly and stir continuously to incorporate it fully into the soup. This helps to create that luxurious creaminess without curdling. If you prefer a lighter version, try substituting half of the heavy cream with a mix of coconut milk for a different flavor profile, or use unsweetened soy or almond milk to maintain creaminess while reducing calories.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, 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

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add the Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Blend the Soup

Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer it to a blender in batches and blend until creamy.

Finish with Cream and Basil

Stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to heat through, then serve hot.

Garnish with extra basil or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding a hint of red pepper flakes for some heat or a touch of balsamic vinegar for enhanced acidity.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make it up to three days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing. When reheating, do so slowly over low heat to prevent the cream from separating. Stir gently to re-emulsify the soup and maintain its lovely texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. It keeps well for up to three months. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion as it freezes. To reheat frozen soup, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or microwave, ensuring it’s heated through completely.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Tomato and Basil Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, allowing you to soak up every delicious drop. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Top your soup with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for added richness and flavor. Don't shy away from garnishing with additional fresh basil or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for that beautiful finishing touch.

For those looking to add a little more protein, consider serving the soup with grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic pairing. You can upscale the sandwich by adding herbs or using gourmet cheeses for an elevated dining experience. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar right before serving; it will give the soup a tangy depth and a unique twist!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat before serving.

→ Can I freeze the leftover soup?

Absolutely! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut milk or a blend of milk and cornstarch for a lighter option.

→ Is there a vegan option for this soup?

Yes! Simply replace heavy cream with a non-dairy cream or milk, and ensure your vegetable broth is vegan-friendly.