Creamy tomato basil soup is one of those timeless dishes that brings warmth and comfort with every spoonful. I often find myself turning to this recipe when I want something soothing yet fresh, especially during cooler months. The combination of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil creates a harmony of flavors that feels both vibrant and homey.

What I love about this soup is how straightforward it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a rich, velvety soup that tastes like it simmered all day. It’s a great way to enjoy the essence of summer tomatoes even when they’re out of season, thanks to quality canned tomatoes.

This soup also lends itself well to customization. Whether you prefer it silky smooth or with a bit of texture, or want to make it vegan-friendly, it’s easy to adapt. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with simple sides like grilled cheese or crusty bread, making it a versatile meal for lunch or dinner.

Overall, this creamy tomato basil soup is a reliable go-to that satisfies cravings for something hearty without being heavy. It’s a comforting classic that feels special but doesn’t require fuss.

Quick Facts

Recipe Highlights

This creamy tomato basil soup is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. I often make it when the weather turns cooler or when I want something comforting but not too heavy. The blend of fresh basil and ripe tomatoes creates a vibrant flavor that’s both fresh and soothing. What makes it special for me is how simple ingredients come together to make something rich and satisfying without needing hours in the kitchen. It’s also a great way to use up garden-fresh basil or canned tomatoes when fresh ones aren’t in season. Whether served as a light lunch or paired with a sandwich for dinner, it never fails to hit the spot.

• Reliable weeknight option
• Minimal ingredients
• Rich, crowd-pleasing flavor
• Scales well for guests

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to make a flavorful and creamy tomato basil soup. Most are common kitchen staples, plus fresh basil for that signature flavor.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

How to Make It

Follow these steps to create a smooth, creamy tomato basil soup that’s full of flavor and perfect for any occasion.

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
3. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Add dried oregano, sugar (if using), and red pepper flakes. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let the soup simmer gently for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Remove the pot from heat. Add the fresh basil leaves and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer to a blender in batches.
7. Return the soup to low heat and stir in the cream. Warm through but do not boil.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Helpful Tips

Here are some tips to get the best results and make the process easier.

• Use good quality canned tomatoes for the richest flavor if fresh tomatoes aren’t available.
• If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half the soup and stir the rest in.
• Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a subtle depth of flavor.
• For a vegan version, substitute the cream with coconut milk or cashew cream.
• Don’t skip the fresh basil—it really brightens the soup.

Ingredient Swaps

If you need to swap out some ingredients, here are a few alternatives that work well.

• Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.
• Replace fresh basil with dried basil, but use about one-third the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
• Swap vegetable broth with chicken broth if you prefer a non-vegetarian version.
• Use fresh tomatoes (about 2 pounds, peeled and chopped) instead of canned for a fresher taste.
• Olive oil can be replaced with butter or avocado oil for a different flavor profile.

Storage Tips

To keep your soup fresh and ready for later, follow these storage tips.

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to prevent curdling of the cream.
• Freeze the soup in portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• If frozen, stir well when reheating to restore the creamy texture.

What to Serve With It

This soup pairs beautifully with a few simple sides to round out your meal.

• Grilled cheese sandwich for a classic combo
• Crusty baguette or garlic bread for dipping
• Simple green salad with a light vinaigrette
• Roasted vegetables for added heartiness

Common Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about making and enjoying this soup.

Nutritional Info