Creamy tomato basil soup is a staple in my kitchen, especially during cooler months when I crave something warm and comforting. I’ve found it strikes the perfect balance between fresh tomato brightness and smooth creaminess, which makes it both satisfying and light. The aroma of simmering tomatoes with garlic and basil fills the kitchen, inviting you to slow down and enjoy.

I often serve this soup as a simple lunch or a starter for dinner, paired with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich. The texture is velvety yet still has a bit of body from the blended tomatoes, making every spoonful enjoyable without being heavy. It’s a recipe I return to because it’s straightforward, uses pantry staples, and always delivers consistent flavor.

What makes this soup special is the fresh basil added near the end, which gives it a bright herbal note that complements the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. It’s easy to customize if you want it thicker or thinner, and it reheats well, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.

Quick Facts

Why You’ll Love It

This creamy tomato basil soup is a reliable go-to for a quick, comforting meal that feels homemade. It combines fresh ingredients with simple techniques to create a smooth, flavorful soup that’s easy to prepare any day of the week.

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

Ingredients

This recipe calls for a combination of canned and fresh ingredients to build depth of flavor. The ingredient list is straightforward and easy to find in most kitchens. Fresh basil and cream are added toward the end to enhance the aroma and texture.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes
• 1 cup fresh tomatoes, chopped (optional for extra freshness)
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Crusty bread, for serving (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these clear steps to build the soup’s flavor and achieve a smooth, creamy texture. The soup is cooked gently to meld flavors before blending and finishing with cream and fresh basil.

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
3. Pour in canned tomatoes with their juice and add fresh tomatoes if using. Break up whole tomatoes with a spoon.
4. Add broth, sugar, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
7. Return the soup to low heat. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped fresh basil. Heat gently for 2-3 minutes without boiling.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
9. Serve hot with crusty bread or your preferred accompaniment.

Chef Tips

These tips help you get the best flavor and texture from your soup, plus some ideas to customize it to your taste.

• Use a good quality canned tomato for richer flavor.
• Simmer gently to avoid bitterness from overcooked garlic or tomatoes.
• Add cream gradually to control the soup’s richness.
• Fresh basil is best added at the end to preserve its flavor and color.
• For a thicker soup, reduce the broth slightly before blending.

Substitutions

If you need to swap ingredients, here are some practical alternatives that won’t compromise the soup’s character.

• Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free version.
• Replace fresh basil with 1 teaspoon dried basil if fresh is unavailable.
• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian.
• Swap fresh tomatoes with an extra half can of canned tomatoes.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover soup properly to maintain freshness and flavor. Reheating is simple and keeps the soup tasting great.

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze in portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens too much when reheated.

Perfect Pairings

This soup pairs well with simple sides and drinks that complement its creamy, bright profile without overpowering it.

• Grilled cheese sandwich
• Crusty baguette or garlic bread
• Light-bodied white wine like Pinot Grigio
• Simple green salad with vinaigrette

FAQs

Here are answers to common questions about making and enjoying creamy tomato basil soup.

Nutritional Note

This soup provides a moderate amount of calories per serving, mainly from the cream and olive oil, with vitamins from the tomatoes and basil. Exact values depend on ingredient brands and portion sizes.