When the craving for a comforting, soul-warming soup hits, nothing satisfies quite like the Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe. It’s irresistibly silky and rich, with the tang of ripe tomatoes softened by cream, and that distinctive lift from vibrant fresh basil. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing starter for entertaining, this soup checks every box. Best of all, a handful of pantry staples come together in under an hour to create a show-stopping bowl that proves simplicity can indeed be deliciously special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe lies in just a few beautiful ingredients, each one chosen to bring a specific flavor, a burst of color, or a touch of texture. You’ll be amazed at what you can achieve with what’s already in your kitchen!
- Olive oil: Offers a smooth, slightly fruity base and ensures your onions and garlic turn beautifully golden without burning.
- Yellow onion: Brings a sweetness and depth that underpins the whole soup, making the tomato flavor shine.
- Garlic: Adds a savory zing that pairs beautifully with both tomatoes and basil for irresistible aroma and taste.
- Whole peeled tomatoes (canned): Using canned tomatoes keeps this soup easy and consistent, giving you robust tomato flavor all year round.
- Vegetable broth: Offers gentle savoriness that ties everything together while keeping the recipe vegetarian.
- Heavy cream: The secret to a luscious, velvety texture—swirling this in transforms the soup into something special.
- Sugar: Just a touch, it balances out the acidity of the tomatoes and rounds off the flavors.
- Salt: Brings out the best in the tomatoes and ensures every spoonful is perfectly seasoned.
- Black pepper: Adds gentle warmth and complexity to every bite.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little unexpected kick—add as much (or as little) as your heart desires.
- Fresh basil leaves: Essential for that classic, aromatic finish that takes the soup from good to unforgettable.
- Additional basil for garnish: Optional, but those bright green flecks make every bowl look irresistible and taste even fresher.
How to Make Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start things off by heating olive oil in a generous pot over medium heat. Add your chopped onion and let it cook for about 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s soft and just starting to turn a sweet, golden color. Now toss in the garlic, and let it mingle for another 1–2 minutes until the fragrance is absolutely mouthwatering but not browned. This aromatic duo lays that essential flavor foundation your soup will build upon.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Seasonings
Next, invite the tomatoes (along with all their flavorful juices) to the party. Use a wooden spoon to break them up just a bit—don’t worry about making it perfect, they’ll cook down beautifully. Pour in the vegetable broth and sprinkle in the sugar, salt, black pepper, and your red pepper flakes if you’re feeling a little spicy. Give it all a good stir and get ready for magic to happen.
Step 3: Simmer and Infuse
Bring your mixture to a gentle simmer, keeping the pot uncovered so some of that excess liquid can evaporate, condensing all those gorgeous flavors. Stir occasionally and let it bubble away for about 15–20 minutes. Your kitchen will be filled with the most comforting, savory aroma—this is the stage where everything melds together and deepens in flavor.
Step 4: Add Basil and Blend
Take the pot off the heat and stir in your fresh basil leaves. At this step, the basil’s flavor stays vibrant and lifts the entire soup. Grab your immersion blender (or carefully transfer soup in batches to a regular blender), and puree until totally smooth and silky. If you prefer a little texture, blend it less—your kitchen, your rules!
Step 5: Stir in Cream and Finish
Return the pureed soup to low heat and pour in that luscious cup of heavy cream. Watch as it swirls in, instantly transforming the soup to a pale, creamy orange. Let it simmer for a final 5 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. All that’s left is to ladle into bowls and add your favorite garnish!
How to Serve Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Never underestimate the power of a pretty garnish! Topping each bowl of your Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil doesn’t just add a pop of color—it brings a fresh, fragrant note right to the surface. For extra decadence, try a drizzle of olive oil, a spoonful of crème fraîche, or even a few homemade croutons for crunch.
Side Dishes
This soup was born to be paired with a classic grilled cheese sandwich, and dipping the golden, crispy bread into the rich, creamy soup never gets old. If you want to keep it lighter, serve alongside a crisp green salad. Toasted sourdough or a cheesy garlic bread are also perfect for soaking up every drop of goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
Wow your guests by serving this soup in small mugs or shot glasses as a cozy appetizer. For a fun twist, float a mini grilled cheese bite or crouton on top! You can also pour the easy creamy tomato basil soup recipe into hollowed bread bowls for a rustic touch that doubles as an edible vessel—truly a meal and showstopper in one.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days; the flavors actually improve as they sit, so leftovers are a treat. Just remember to give it a good stir before reheating as natural separation may occur.
Freezing
For longer storage, let the soup cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers (leaving a little space at the top for expansion). The Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe freezes beautifully for up to three months. For best results, freeze before adding the cream, and stir it in fresh upon reheating.
Reheating
To enjoy again, simply reheat the soup gently on the stove over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s a bit thick, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up. Microwave reheating works too—just use a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely to prevent splatters.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you have garden-fresh tomatoes, you can chop and cook them down in place of the canned ones. You’ll need about two to three pounds. Just peel if you prefer extra-smooth soup and add a little extra simmering time.
Is there a dairy-free option for the Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe?
Yes! Swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk or your favorite plant-based cream. You’ll still achieve that rich, creamy texture, but with a subtle hint of coconut—totally delicious and friendly for dairy-free guests.
How spicy does the soup get with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that’s easy to control. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with just a pinch or leave them out entirely. Love some heat? Add up to half a teaspoon and taste as you go!
Can I make the Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! This soup is ideal for making ahead as the flavors deepen and meld over time. Prepare as directed, store in the fridge, and simply reheat when ready to serve. Great for meal prep or dinner parties!
What’s the best way to blend the soup safely?
For ease (and to avoid splatters), use an immersion blender right in the pot. If using a countertop blender, let the soup cool slightly first and blend in small batches, holding the lid down with a kitchen towel to prevent steam build-up.
Final Thoughts
If ever a soup could feel like a warm hug, it’s this Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe. I truly hope you give it a try for your next cozy meal—you might just find it becomes your go-to comfort recipe all year long!
Print
Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Soup. Made with simple ingredients like ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and cream, this delicious soup is perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) whole peeled tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)
For Garnish:
- Additional basil leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Soup: Heat olive oil in a large pot, sauté onion until softened, add garlic, tomatoes, broth, sugar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir in basil.
- Puree the Soup: Use an immersion blender or transfer in batches to a blender to puree until smooth. Return to pot over low heat.
- Finish the Soup: Stir in heavy cream, simmer for 5 minutes. Adjust seasonings. Serve hot, garnished with basil.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or plant-based cream.
- For extra richness, add butter at the end.
- Pair with grilled cheese for a classic combo.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
