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Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for any cozy dinner. This easy recipe combines rich flavors with a silky texture, making it a delightful option for chilly evenings. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a bowl of warmth that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy tomato basil soup is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or as a starter for a special occasion. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this recipe:
- Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes.
- Rich and creamy texture that comforts the soul.
- Fresh basil adds a vibrant flavor that elevates the soup.
- Perfect for pairing with your favorite bread or salad.
- Great for meal prep and leftovers taste even better!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until creamy.
- Return the soup to the pot (if using a blender) and stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil. Simmer for another 5 minutes, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh basil leaves.
Tips for the Best Results
- For a deeper flavor, roast the tomatoes before adding them to the soup.
- Adjust the thickness of the soup by varying the amount of broth or cream you add.
- Fresh basil is key for the best flavor; consider adding it at the end of cooking to preserve its freshness.
Easy Variations
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the onions.
- Swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Add cooked pasta or rice to the soup for a heartier meal.
- Incorporate other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition.
What to Serve With It
- Grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic pairing.
- Crusty artisan bread or garlic bread for dipping.
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes and basil.
Storage and Reheating
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Store any leftover creamy tomato basil soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 1-minute increments until warmed through.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield/Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, and sugar. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
- Puree the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or a regular blender.
- Return the soup to the pot, stir in heavy cream and chopped basil, and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper, then serve hot with fresh basil for garnish.
Notes: This soup is perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day!
