Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Name: Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Cooking

I love making Creamy Tomato Basil Soup on chilly days when I need something warm and comforting. The rich, creamy texture combined with the vibrant tomato and fragrant basil creates a dish that's both simple and utterly satisfying. As I simmer the ingredients together, the aroma fills my kitchen and draws everyone in. This recipe is quick to prepare, and the end result is a delicious bowl of soup that's perfect for lunch or dinner, especially paired with a crusty piece of bread.

Created by

Nerissa Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:14:35.303Z

When I first made this Creamy Tomato Basil Soup, I decided to take a simple recipe and elevate it with extra herbs and spices. The result was a rich depth of flavor that my family couldn't get enough of! Adding a splash of cream at the end gives it that luxurious touch, but don't worry; it's still light enough for an everyday meal.

One of my favorite tips is to use fresh basil right at the end of cooking. It really makes the flavors pop and enhances the vibrant color of the soup. I always recommend garnishing with a bit of extra basil and a drizzle of olive oil before serving — it looks stunning and tastes incredible!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture balanced with the brightness of fresh basil.
Quick and easy to make, perfect for any day of the week.
Comfort in a bowl — it's sure to warm you up!

The Role of Fresh Basil

Fresh basil is the star of this Creamy Tomato Basil Soup, elevating its flavor profile significantly. Its vibrant aroma and slightly sweet taste provide a perfect counterbalance to the acidity of the tomatoes. When added at the end of cooking, basil retains its bright green color and fresh flavor, enhancing the dish. To maximize the basil's essence, consider tearing the leaves by hand instead of cutting them, which can bruise the herb and diminish its aromatic qualities.

If you don't have fresh basil on hand, don't worry! You can substitute with approximately 1-2 teaspoons of dried basil, adding it when you stir in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. However, keep in mind that dried herbs will not impart the same fresh flavor, so I recommend using fresh basil if possible for the best outcome.

Cream Consistency and Alternatives

Using heavy cream in this soup provides a rich and velvety texture that makes it truly indulgent. It blends seamlessly with the tomatoes, resulting in a smooth consistency. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just be aware that the flavor will change slightly; coconut milk will add a subtle sweetness and earthy note.

To adjust viscosity, you can also experiment with different thickeners. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend in a small potato or incorporate some cooked rice or pasta during the simmering stage. These ingredients will not only thicken the soup but enhance its heartiness without compromising flavor.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this creamy soup, pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate your meal. A fresh, crusty baguette or grilled cheese sandwich complements the soup beautifully. Additionally, top each bowl with a swirl of extra cream and a sprinkle of basil for an appealing presentation. If you're feeling adventurous, a dash of balsamic glaze can add a zing that contrasts delightfully with the creamy texture.

For a more filling option, consider adding protein such as shredded rotisserie chicken or chickpeas stirred in just before serving. This will not only make your soup heartier but also provide additional flavor dimensions. Plus, it’s a great way to utilize leftover chicken!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious soup:

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Creamy Tomato Basil Soup:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld for about 15 minutes.

Blend and Add Cream

Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream and bring back to a gentle simmer.

Finish with Basil

Remove the soup from heat, add the fresh basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Your delicious soup is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic. This adds a pleasant warmth that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is perfect for make-ahead meals, as its flavors deepen and improve after a day in the fridge. Prepare the soup a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to enjoy it, gently reheat over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. If the soup thickens too much, just add a splash of vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.

Freezing is also an option for longer storage. Allow the soup to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It should keep well for up to three months. To reheat after freezing, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it gently on the stovetop. Again, adding a bit of broth can help revive the original creaminess and texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your soup tastes too acidic, it may be due to the tomatoes. A solid trick to balance flavors is to add a pinch of sugar, which neutralizes acidity and rounds out the taste. Adding sugar gradually, tasting as you go, helps you find the right flavor balance without overwhelming the soup.

In the case of separation where the cream looks curdled, it's often a result of overheating. Always warm your soup gently; too high a heat can cause the cream to separate. If this occurs, using an immersion blender can help smooth it out again, bringing it back to that luscious creamy texture.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe up or down is quite easy! If you're planning to serve a larger crowd, simply double the ingredients accordingly. It’s important to remember that larger batches might require a longer simmering time to allow flavors to meld, so adjust your cooking time by 5-10 minutes, tasting as you go.

Conversely, if you're looking to make a smaller portion, you can halve the recipe without any issues. This recipe is quite forgiving, so feel free to adjust the ingredient amounts, keeping in mind that the cooking times may slightly vary.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it up to a day in advance. Just reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.

→ Can I freeze Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?

Absolutely! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will last in the freezer for up to three months.

→ What can I serve with the soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches, a fresh green salad, or crusty bread for dipping.

→ Can I substitute heavy cream?

Yes! You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free version.