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Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

A bowl of creamy tomato basil soup topped with cream swirls, fresh basil, and a grilled cheese crouton.

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A silky and flavorful tomato basil soup that is quick enough for a weeknight meal. This recipe offers flexibility with options for using fresh roasted tomatoes or canned tomatoes, and can be made dairy-free with coconut milk.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 (28 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free)
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
  4. Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld. For a richer flavor, you can simmer for up to 30 minutes.
  5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  6. If using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, let the soup cool slightly, then blend in batches until smooth. Return the blended soup to the pot.
  7. Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and heat gently until warmed through. Do not boil after adding the cream to prevent curdling.
  8. Stir in the fresh chopped basil just before serving.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, roast fresh tomatoes before adding them to the soup. Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until softened.
  • To add cream without curdling, ensure the soup is not boiling when you stir it in, and heat gently.
  • This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
  • Serve with grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic pairing.

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