This creamy tomato basil soup is perfect for cozy days! Made with fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a touch of cream, it’s warm and comforting in every sip.
I love pairing this soup with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich. Seriously, it’s a match made in heaven! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up anytime you need a hug in a bowl.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A great choice for sautéing, it adds a nice flavor. If you want to switch it up, avocado oil or butter works well too.
Onion: I recommend yellow onions for sweetness. In a pinch, you could use shallots or even leeks for a milder taste.
Garlic: Fresh is best, but garlic powder can work in a hurry. Just use about 1/4 teaspoon for every clove.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes give the best taste, but canned tomatoes are convenient and just as flavorful. Use whole peeled tomatoes for more richness.
Heavy Cream: This makes the soup creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or coconut milk can be used instead.
Basil: Fresh basil is a must for that fragrant flavor. If it’s out of season, dried basil will do, but use less — about 1 tsp since it’s more concentrated.
How Do You Get the Right Texture When Blending the Soup?
Blending the soup is key to achieving that smooth and creamy texture. Here are some tips to make it foolproof:
- Use an immersion blender directly in the pot for convenience, making clean-up easier.
- If using a countertop blender, allow the soup to cool slightly and blend in small batches to avoid splattering.
- Blend until completely smooth, but if you prefer a bit of texture, just pulse it a few times to your liking.
Remember, you want that velvety feel, so blending is an important step. Enjoy preparing your soup!
How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 lbs (about 900g) fresh ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cans of whole peeled tomatoes)
- 1 cup vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion. Cook the onion until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. You want it to be sweet and tender.
2. Add Garlic:
Next, add in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. The garlic should become fragrant, but make sure not to burn it—keep an eye on it!
3. Cook the Tomatoes:
Now, stir in the chopped fresh tomatoes (or the canned tomatoes along with their juices). Cook this mixture for about 10 minutes, using your spoon to break down the tomatoes as they soften.
4. Simmer with Broth:
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 15 minutes so the flavors can really come together.
5. Blend Until Smooth:
Using an immersion blender, or carefully in a countertop blender in batches, puree the soup until it’s smooth and creamy. This is where the magic happens, turning all those ingredients into a velvety soup!
6. Add Cream and Basil:
Stir in the heavy cream and the chopped fresh basil. Cook on low heat for an additional 5 minutes to warm through. If you find the soup is a bit acidic, feel free to add the optional sugar to balance the flavors.
7. Season and Serve:
Finally, season your soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve it warm, garnished with extra basil leaves or a nice drizzle of cream for an extra touch.
Enjoy your cozy bowl of creamy tomato basil soup!
Can I Use Canned Tomatoes Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Canned tomatoes are a great alternative and can make the recipe even quicker. Use 2 cans of whole peeled tomatoes, including the juices, for a deliciously rich flavor.
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Yes! Simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative, and use vegetable broth to keep it fully vegan. It’ll still be creamy and delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Definitely! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-friendly containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, and enjoy your cozy soup anytime!
