Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

There’s nothing like a warm bowl of Creamy Tomato Basil Soup to soothe the soul. With its velvety texture, rich tomato flavor, and aromatic basil, this classic soup is perfect for chilly evenings or as a companion to a gooey grilled cheese sandwich. The best part? It’s simple to make with pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Let’s get started!

Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Every ingredient in this soup works together to create a comforting and flavorful dish:

• Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – For sautéing the aromatics and enhancing the flavors.
• Yellow Onion (1 medium, chopped) – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the soup.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Brings aromatic warmth to the dish.
• Canned Whole Tomatoes (28 oz) – The base of the soup. Use high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth (2 cups) – Thins the soup while adding savory notes.
• Heavy Cream (½ cup) – Creates a luscious, creamy texture.
• Fresh Basil Leaves (½ cup) – The star herb that gives the soup its signature flavor.
• Salt and Black Pepper (to taste) – Balances and enhances all the flavors.
• Sugar (1 tsp) – Optional, to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Prep Tip

If you have fresh tomatoes on hand, you can use about 2 pounds instead of canned. Blanch and peel them before cooking for a smoother texture.

How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the canned tomatoes (including their juices) and the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir well, breaking up the tomatoes with a spoon. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Blend the Soup
Remove the pot from heat and add the fresh basil leaves. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until silky.

Step 4: Stir in the Cream
Return the soup to low heat. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt, black pepper, and sugar if needed. Simmer gently for 5 minutes, but do not let it boil.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve warm with crusty bread or a side of grilled cheese.

Equipment Needed for This Recipe

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Immersion blender or countertop blender
• Cutting board and knife for chopping ingredients
• Ladle for serving

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes! Use about 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes. Blanch, peel, and chop them before cooking for a fresher flavor.

How can I make this soup vegan?

Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I freeze tomato basil soup?

Absolutely! Freeze the soup without the cream for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw, reheat, and stir in the cream.

What can I serve with tomato basil soup?

Classic grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or a side salad are perfect pairings for this soup.

How do I make the soup thicker?

You can reduce the broth by half or add a tablespoon of tomato paste for a thicker consistency.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh basil provides the best flavor. If using dried basil, add 1-2 teaspoons during the simmering stage.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your broth is certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is a comforting classic that’s both easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

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