This tasty Tomato Basil Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a splash of cream, it’s both comforting and homemade.
There’s something magical about the smell of basil wafting through the kitchen. I love pairing this soup with a gooey grilled cheese—perfect for those cozy days!
Making this soup is super easy! Just blend, heat, and enjoy. It’s a great way to use fresh tomatoes when they’re in season.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: I prefer extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. However, you can substitute with vegetable oil or melted butter if needed. Just keep in mind that it will slightly change the taste!
Onion: A yellow onion works best for its sweetness, but you can use red onion for a sharper flavor or even leeks if you want something a bit different.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used. Just use about 1/4 teaspoon for every clove of fresh garlic.
Canned Tomatoes: Whole peeled tomatoes are preferred for their flavor, but diced tomatoes will work. If you’re feeling adventurous, fresh tomatoes (about 2 pounds) can also be used—just blanch and peel them first.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can swap heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option, though the flavor will vary a bit.
Basil: Fresh basil adds an aromatic flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use dried basil (1 teaspoon) though it won’t have the same brightness.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is perfect for garnish. If you want a nut-free option, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How to Achieve a Smooth and Creamy Texture?
Getting that perfect silky texture in your Tomato Basil Soup is all about blending it right! Here’s how to do it:
- After cooking, let the soup cool for a minute before blending to avoid splatters.
- If using a regular blender, fill it only halfway to prevent overflow. Blend in batches if needed.
- An immersion blender is great for pureeing directly in the pot—just be sure you move it around to blend everything evenly.
- For the smoothest result, strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve after blending to catch any remaining bits.
After blending, always stir in the cream on low heat to keep it rich and creamy without boiling!
Delicious Tomato Basil Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) whole peeled tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus additional whole leaves for garnish
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Croutons (optional), for serving
- A drizzle of olive oil for finishing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy Tomato Basil Soup takes approximately 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, so plan for about 40 minutes in total. It’s perfect for a warm and comforting meal any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. This will really deepen the flavors!
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot. Stir and cook for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant, but be careful not to burn it. Scorched garlic can taste bitter!
3. Add Tomatoes and Broth:
Now it’s time for the star ingredients! Add the whole peeled tomatoes along with their juice. Gently break them up using a spoon. After that, pour in the broth and bring everything to a simmer. It’s starting to smell amazing!
4. Simmer for Flavor:
Let the soup simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and helps the soup to thicken a little. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking!
5. Blend the Soup:
When the soup is ready, take it off the heat. Use an immersion blender to puree it until it’s nice and smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and blend until smooth. Just be cautious with the hot soup!
6. Stir in Fresh Basil:
Return the blended soup back to low heat. Stir in the chopped fresh basil and the sugar (if you’re using it). Let it cook for another 5 minutes. The smell of the basil will be delightful!
7. Add Cream and Season:
Now, stir in the heavy cream, and season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Heat through—but don’t let it boil after adding the cream!
8. Serve It Up:
Once everything is perfectly blended and heated, ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish each bowl with a drizzle of olive oil, some freshly grated Parmesan cheese, cracked black pepper, and a few whole basil leaves for that extra pop!
9. Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, with crispy croutons on the side for dipping if you’d like. Enjoy this comforting, flavorful Tomato Basil Soup with loved ones!
Warm up with this delicious soup anytime; it’s sure to delight! Enjoy!
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you’d like to use fresh tomatoes, you’ll need about 2 pounds. Blanch and peel them before adding to the pot. They will provide a lovely, fresh flavor!
How Can I Adjust the Spiciness?
This recipe is quite mild, but if you prefer a spicy kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions, or mix in some diced jalapeños for a delightful heat!
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Yes, just substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and skip the cheese for garnish or opt for a dairy-free cheese alternative!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally for a creamy consistency!