Name: Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cans (14 oz each) crushed tomatoes; 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1 teaspoon sugar; Salt & pepper to taste; ½ cup heavy cream; ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

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If you are craving a warming, comforting bowl that feels like a hug in a bowl, this Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe is your perfect match. Combining velvety tomato richness with the fresh brightness of basil and a luscious swirl of cream, this soup strikes a wonderful balance between simplicity and elegance. It’s incredibly easy to make yet delivers profound flavor — perfect for cozy nights, casual lunches, or whenever you need something soothing and satisfying. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a classic grilled cheese or crusty bread for that ultimate comfort food combo.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A set of nine images showing the cooking steps of a sauce in a beige pot on a white marbled surface. The first image shows a layer of chopped white onions at the center of the pot. The second shows the onions cooked to a light golden brown color. The third has a white powder spread over the cooked onions. The fourth image shows the mixture browned and cooked down further. The fifth shows a woman's hand pouring a light brown liquid into the pot while stirring the mixture. The sixth image adds three layers side by side: red roasted peppers, fresh green basil leaves, and finely grated white cheese over the light brown liquid base in the pot. The seventh shows the sauce now cooked into a chunky red mixture with visible green basil leaves. The eighth image depicts the sauce being blended inside the pot with a silver hand blender. The ninth shows a woman's hand pouring a pale cream-colored liquid into the blended sauce, adding a smooth top layer. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple ingredients is the secret to this soup’s incredible taste. Each component plays a key role in building layers of flavor, creamy texture, and that inviting color that makes it so inviting.

Butter: Adds a rich, silky base to soften the aromatics and enrich the soup’s body.
Onion: Provides a subtle sweetness and savory foundation after being gently sautéed.
Garlic: Infuses a fragrant warmth that elevates every spoonful.
Crushed tomatoes: The heart of the soup, delivering deep, bright tomato flavor and a smooth texture.
Vegetable or chicken broth: Creates the soup’s savory liquid base and helps balance acidity.
Heavy cream: Brings luxurious creaminess that softens the tomato’s brightness and rounds the soup perfectly.
Fresh basil leaves: Adds a burst of herbaceous freshness and a beautiful green contrast.
Sugar: Just a touch to soften any acidity and bring harmony to the flavors.
Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every ingredient’s taste.

How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook these until they’re soft and fragrant — this step builds a flavorful base that the rest of the soup will lean on.

Step 2: Combine Tomatoes and Broth

Add the crushed tomatoes, your choice of vegetable or chicken broth, sugar, salt, and pepper into the pot. Stir everything together, then let the soup simmer gently for around 15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, and the tomatoes soften even more.

Step 3: Blend Until Smooth

Using an immersion blender or carefully transferring the soup to a blender, puree the mixture until smooth and velvety. This step transforms chunky tomatoes into a silky soup that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

Step 4: Stir in Cream and Basil

Return the soup to the pot if needed, then stir in the heavy cream and freshly chopped basil leaves. Warm through gently — you want the cream incorporated without boiling, and the basil to release its fragrant oils without cooking away.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

A white bowl filled with smooth, thick tomato soup of deep red-orange color, topped with six small, round white cheese slices arranged in a loose cluster near the center. A small green basil leaf sits partly under the cheese slices, sitting atop a light swirl of cream blending gently into the soup. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Brighten your bowl with a drizzle of extra cream, a few torn basil leaves, or perhaps a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. A little grated parmesan or toasted pine nuts also add an exciting texture and flavor boost that guests will appreciate.

Side Dishes

Classic grilled cheese sandwiches are the gold standard for pairing, their crispy, melty goodness perfectly complementing the smooth tomato soup. Alternatively, warm crusty bread, garlic knots, or even a light salad can turn this simple soup into a satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, serve the Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe in small cups as a starter, garnished with microgreens or edible flowers. Or swirl in spicy chili oil or pesto for a beautiful pop of color and flavor that surprises and delights.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain its fresh flavor and creamy texture — simply give it a good stir before reheating.

Freezing

The Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe freezes well, but to preserve creaminess, it’s best to freeze before adding fresh basil and cream. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then add the cream and basil fresh during reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low to medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to avoid scorching. If the soup feels too thick after refrigerating or freezing, simply whisk in a splash of broth or cream to restore that silky consistency.

FAQs

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or another plant-based cream alternative. It adds a lovely richness and keeps the soup vegan-friendly without compromising flavor.

How long does it take to make this soup?

You can have this delicious soup on the table in about 25 minutes, making it a quick yet impressive dish for weeknights or last-minute guests.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, fresh ripe tomatoes can be used in the summer when they’re at their peak. Be sure to peel and chop them well, and you might need to simmer a bit longer to achieve the same smoothness and depth of flavor.

Is it possible to add other herbs or spices?

Definitely! A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle heat, and herbs like thyme or oregano can lend complexity. Just be careful not to overpower the bright basil and tomato flavors that make this soup special.

What’s the best way to blend the soup?

Using an immersion blender right in the pot is easiest and fastest. If you don’t have one, a regular blender works fine—just blend in batches and be cautious with the hot liquid.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a soup that feels like a cozy night in but tastes like you put in hours of effort, this Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe is a total winner. Simple ingredients come together to create something truly special, and every spoonful is a perfect mix of creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors. Don’t hesitate to make it your go-to comfort food—it’s one of those recipes that feels like home.

Sara

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need