This easy creamy tomato basil soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of cream, it’s super comforting and perfect for chilly days.
Making it is a breeze! I just sauté some veggies, blend it all together, and voilà! It pairs wonderfully with a grilled cheese sandwich. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds a nice flavor to the soup. If you’re running low, avocado oil works too. You could even use butter for a richer taste!
Onion: A medium yellow onion is perfect for sweetness. If you’re sensitive to onions, try using shallots or even leeks for a more subtle flavor.
Crushed Tomatoes: This is the heart of the soup. If fresh tomatoes are in season, use about 4 cups of chopped tomatoes. You can also use diced tomatoes if that’s what you have!
Vegetable or Chicken Broth: I usually go with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. Chicken broth adds a deeper flavor, though, so pick your favorite!
Heavy Cream: For creaminess, heavy cream is ideal. If you want a lighter option, try half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Fresh Basil: Fresh is best for vibrant flavor. If you have dried basil, use about 1 teaspoon, but fresh makes the soup special!
How Do I Blend the Soup Smoothly?
Blending the soup until smooth is a key step, but it can be a little tricky! Here are my tips:
- Use an immersion blender directly in the pot for easy blending and less mess.
- If using a regular blender, let the soup cool slightly first. Fill the blender halfway and remove the center cap to let steam escape.
- Blend in batches if you have a lot of soup to avoid overfilling your blender.
This makes for a luxurious, creamy texture that really elevates your tomato basil soup!
Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Croutons, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, making the total time about 40 minutes. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
2. Add Garlic and Tomatoes:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown! Then, pour in the crushed tomatoes and your choice of broth. Give everything a good stir and bring it to a simmer. If you like, sprinkle in the sugar to help balance the tomato acidity.
3. Simmer and Blend:
Let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. After that, remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s silky smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
4. Finish with Cream and Basil:
Stir in the heavy cream and freshly chopped basil. Gently heat the soup again over low heat, making sure it doesn’t boil. Season with salt and pepper to taste, giving it a nice flavor boost!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, it’s time to serve your lovely soup! Ladle it into bowls, top with crunchy croutons, and sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top if you like. Enjoy every comforting spoonful of your creamy tomato basil soup!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh tomatoes, use about 4 cups of diced tomatoes. Just blanch them first to remove the skins and simmer them until they break down before blending.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can work, but for a dairy-free alternative, try coconut milk or cashew cream for that rich texture!
How Should I Store Leftover Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a little broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Can I Make This Soup in Advance?
Yes! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just prepare it, cool completely, and refrigerate. You can reheat it when you’re ready to serve!
