Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: A Cozy 30-Minute Recipe

Name: Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 (14.5 oz) cans whole San Marzano tomatoes; 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste

By Alicia Newsom

July 16, 2025

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Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day, with its velvety texture and aromatic blend of fresh basil and ripe tomatoes. Just imagine the rich aroma wafting through your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table. This soup doesn’t just fill your belly; it fills your heart with warmth and nostalgia.

I can still remember my first attempt at making Creamy Tomato Basil Soup in college. Armed with a cookbook that looked like it had survived a tornado, I thought I could conquer the culinary world. Spoiler alert: I ended up with tomato splatters on the ceiling and a newfound respect for chefs everywhere. But hey, if I can do it, so can you! This soup is perfect for cozy nights in or as a starter at dinner parties that will impress even your food-snobbish friends.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This creamy tomato basil soup is easy to whip up on a busy weeknight and tastes like it simmered all day
The flavor profile is rich and comforting, combining sweet tomatoes with aromatic basil
Its vibrant red color makes it visually appealing, making you feel like a gourmet chef
Versatile enough to pair with grilled cheese or crusty bread, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table

Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Olive Oil: A splash of good-quality olive oil adds richness and depth to the flavor.
Onion: Use a medium onion for sweetness; it’s the base of your flavor profile.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring an aromatic kick that perfectly complements tomatoes.
Canned Whole Tomatoes: Opt for San Marzano tomatoes for their superior sweetness and flavor.
Vegetable Broth: A low-sodium vegetable broth provides the liquid base without overpowering flavors.
Fresh Basil: Use fragrant basil leaves to elevate the dish’s freshness; don’t skimp!
Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess that makes each spoonful velvety smooth.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to taste, enhancing all those amazing flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and let it heat up. Toss in diced onions and sauté until they become translucent—about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes

Pour in the canned whole tomatoes (juice included) into the pot, breaking them up with a wooden spoon as you go. The aroma will be divine!

Step 3: Incorporate Broth

Add vegetable broth into the mixture and stir well. Bring everything to a gentle simmer; reduce heat to low and let it bubble away for about 20 minutes. Feel free to dance around while waiting—it’s encouraged!

Step 4: Blend Until Smooth

Using an immersion blender (or transferring carefully to a regular blender), puree the soup until it’s silky smooth. Be cautious if using a regular blender—hot liquids can make quite a mess!

Step 5: Stir in Basil and Cream

Return the blended soup to low heat and stir in shredded fresh basil leaves along with heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste—adjust based on your preference!

Step 6: Serve Warm

Ladle into bowls while it’s still hot! Consider garnishing with additional basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil for that extra touch of fancy.

Transfer to plates alongside crusty bread or grilled cheese for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy every creamy bite while reminiscing about your own cooking adventures—or misadventures—for that matter!

You Must Know

This creamy tomato basil soup is more than just a warm hug in a bowl; it’s a timeless classic
Perfect for cozy nights or impressing guests, it pairs beautifully with a crunchy grilled cheese sandwich
The freshness of basil elevates this dish to gourmet status without breaking the bank

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add diced tomatoes to create a flavorful base. Simmer while blending fresh basil into the mix for that creamy finish. It’s all about layering flavors for a rich result.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out fresh basil for dried herbs if fresh isn’t available. You can also add a splash of cream for extra richness or toss in some roasted red peppers for a smoky kick. Customize to your heart’s content!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover creamy tomato basil soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove over low heat to maintain its creaminess and flavor integrity.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always use ripe tomatoes for maximum flavor; they make all the difference in your soup’s taste
Don’t skip the blending step—smooth soup wins hearts every time!
Adjust seasoning at the end; sometimes it just needs that little extra pinch of salt!

Sometimes I whip up this creamy tomato basil soup when friends drop by unexpectedly, and their smiles say it all—it’s like serving joy in a bowl!

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?

To prepare a delightful creamy tomato basil soup, gather these essential ingredients: ripe tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, heavy cream or coconut milk, olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. These ingredients come together to create a rich and flavorful soup that is perfect for any occasion.

How long does it take to make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?

Making creamy tomato basil soup typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish. This includes approximately 10 minutes for preparation and around 20 to 30 minutes for cooking. The simmering time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Once everything is combined and cooked, blend the mixture until smooth for that signature creamy texture.

Can I make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup in advance?

Yes, you can make creamy tomato basil soup in advance! In fact, this soup tastes even better after it sits for a day as the flavors deepen. Simply store the cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.

What can I serve with Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?

Creamy tomato basil soup pairs wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving it with a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic combo or a fresh garden salad for a lighter option. Crusty bread or homemade croutons also make excellent accompaniments that complement the soup’s rich flavors beautifully.

Conclusion for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup :

Creamy tomato basil soup is an easy and satisfying dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation steps, anyone can create this delicious recipe at home. Remember to use fresh tomatoes and basil for the best flavor. Whether enjoyed alone or with your favorite sides, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy making your own creamy tomato basil soup today!

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