Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Name: Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Home Meals

I love making creamy tomato basil soup, especially when I'm craving something comforting and delicious. This recipe combines the sweet acidity of ripe tomatoes with the fragrant earthiness of fresh basil, creating a perfect harmony of flavors in every spoonful. The creamy texture makes it feel indulgent without being overly heavy, making it a fantastic dish year-round. I often enjoy it with a warm slice of crusty bread, which complements the soup beautifully and makes a complete meal that I can't resist.

Created by

Harriet Mason

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:45:35.514Z

When I first decided to make this creamy tomato basil soup, I was looking for a dish that could warm my soul during chilly evenings. The combination of roasted tomatoes and fresh basil creates a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. I found that simmering the tomatoes and onions before blending them allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and velvety texture.

One of my secrets is adding a splash of heavy cream at the end for that luxurious creaminess. It transforms the soup from good to extraordinary. Each time I make it, I can’t help but be reminded of cozy dinners with loved ones, where warmth isn’t just from the soup but from the entire experience.

Why You Will Love This Soup
Rich, robust tomato flavor complemented by fragrant basil.
Creamy texture that delights with every spoonful.
Easy to prepare yet feels gourmet, perfect for any occasion.

Understanding Tomato Selection

Choosing the right tomatoes is crucial for this creamy tomato basil soup. Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes, such as San Marzano, known for their rich flavor and low acidity. If you prefer fresh tomatoes, use about 2 pounds of ripe Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes. Roasting them beforehand can enhance their sweetness. When using canned tomatoes, the juice adds depth, so do not drain it before adding it to your pot.

For a varied flavor profile, consider mixing types of tomatoes. Combine cherry or grape tomatoes with diced ones for a touch of sweetness and complexity. Remember, the tomato choices you make directly influence the soup's overall taste, making it essential to select the freshest, most flavorful options you can find.

Basil: Fresh vs. Dried

The basil called for in this recipe should be fresh for optimal flavor. Fresh basil has a sweet, peppery taste that elevates the soup, providing a fragrant aroma and vibrant green color. When adding it into the soup, a rough chop is best to release the essential oils, enhancing the flavor. The aromatic oils contribute significantly to the overall experience of the soup, making it feel more luxurious.

If you only have dried basil, use it as a substitute; however, you'll need to adjust the quantity. Dried herbs are more concentrated, so about 1 tablespoon of dried basil should suffice. In this case, add it during the simmering stage to allow time for the flavors to meld, ensuring that your soup is still delicious despite the difference in ingredient type.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
1 cup vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices and the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes to deepen the flavors.

Blend and Stir in Cream

Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer it to a blender in batches. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with extra basil leaves if desired, and serve hot with your favorite bread.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider roasting the tomatoes before adding them to the soup. This enhances their sweetness and adds depth.

Storage and Freezing Tips

This creamy tomato basil soup stores well, making it a fantastic meal prep idea. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions. Use freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. When reheating, slow simmer on low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching.

If you plan to freeze the soup, consider omitting the heavy cream until you’re ready to serve. Cream can sometimes separate when thawed and reheated, affecting the texture. Stir in fresh cream after reheating for a rich finish, restoring the creamy consistency that is essential to this recipe.

Serve it Up!

For an elevated dining experience, serve the creamy tomato basil soup with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Both options add a flavor punch and an appealing visual element. Pair the soup with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic combo that perfectly complements the dish’s flavors.

To switch things up, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving. This will introduce a subtle tartness that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and cream, creating a delightful flavor contrast. You can also garnish with additional fresh basil or a dollop of pesto for a vibrant finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! About 2-3 pounds of ripe tomatoes will work well. Just peel and chop them before cooking.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Use vegetable broth and ensure all other ingredients are vegan-friendly.

→ How long does this soup last in the fridge?

The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well! Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some space in the container for expansion as it freezes.