If you are craving a comforting bowl of warmth that wraps you like a cozy blanket, this Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites. It combines the rich tang of ripe tomatoes with the sweet, aromatic touch of fresh basil and luxurious cream to create a soup that is velvety, vibrant, and utterly irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner solution or a simple dish to impress your guests, this soup is all about marrying simple pantry staples into a dish that feels like a gourmet hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Inside a silver mixing bowl, there are six sections of ingredients: chopped celery in light green at the top left, cooked ground meat in dark brown at the top center, diced tomatoes in red at the top right, chopped carrots in bright orange at the bottom right, diced onions in white at the bottom left, and minced garlic in off-white next to the onions. The bowl's shiny surface reflects some of the colors. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet indispensable for crafting the perfect balance of flavors and that silky texture you’ll love. Each one plays its part, from the sweet tang of the tomatoes to the gentle richness of the cream, all accented by fresh basil for a brightness that lifts the whole dish.

2 cans crushed tomatoes (28 oz total): The heart of the soup, providing rich tomato flavor and a smooth base.
1 onion, chopped: Adds subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a warm, aromatic punch that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
1 cup chicken or vegetable broth: Enhances the soup’s body and balances acidity.
1/2 cup heavy cream: Gives that silky, creamy texture that makes this soup feel indulgent.
1 teaspoon sugar: Just a touch to tame tomato acidity and round out the flavors.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds a lush mouthfeel and subtle fruitiness.
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves: The star herb that brings brightness and a bouquet of flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance every ingredient’s natural goodness.

How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until the onions become translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes. This gentle cooking process softens their sharpness and builds a savory foundation for the soup’s flavor.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in the teaspoon of sugar and season with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a simmer which helps the flavors to meld beautifully. Let it bubble gently for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Blend Until Smooth

Once the soup has simmered and developed its flavors, carefully blend it using an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer it in batches to a stand blender. The goal is a smooth, velvety texture that feels luxurious on your palate—no lumps in sight.

Step 4: Stir in Cream and Basil

Return the blended soup to the pot (if needed) and reduce heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and fresh basil leaves, allowing them to gently steep in the warm soup for a few minutes. The cream softens the acidity of the tomatoes, while the basil imparts a fresh and herbal aroma that elevates this Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe to something truly special.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Once everything is combined and heated through, your soup is ready to serve. Ladle it into bowls and get ready to indulge in comfort with every spoonful.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

A white bowl filled with smooth, thick orange-red tomato soup, topped with a swirl of light cream that creates a soft marbled pattern near the center. On top of the cream are six round, pale white soft cheese pieces arranged loosely in a small cluster. A fresh green basil leaf rests beside the cheese, adding a pop of color. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Turn a simple bowl of soup into a visual and textural delight by adding garnishes. A handful of crunchy croutons or a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan creates that perfect contrast to the soup’s creaminess. For a pop of color and freshness, add a few whole basil leaves or a drizzle of good olive oil.

Side Dishes

The classic companion to tomato basil soup has to be a grilled cheese sandwich. Crispy golden bread with gooey melted cheese complements the soup’s richness perfectly. You could also offer crusty artisan bread or a side salad with vinaigrette for a lighter, refreshing balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out mini bread bowls or pair it with a swirl of pesto or basil oil on top to impress your guests visually. Setting the soup alongside a charcuterie board can also make for a sophisticated eat-and-sip experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. It’s an easy recipe to make in advance, so you always have a warm, comforting meal ready to heat up.

Freezing

You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months, but it’s best to leave out the cream if you plan to freeze it. Add the cream fresh when reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor. Store in freezer-safe containers or bags and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. Stir in the cream after warming to keep its luscious texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh, ripe tomatoes can be used, but they will need to be peeled and cooked down to bring out their flavor. Canned crushed tomatoes are convenient and provide consistent flavor year-round, which is why they’re a popular choice.

Is this soup vegetarian friendly?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian if you use vegetable broth. The ingredients are simple and plant-based aside from the cream, which can be substituted with coconut cream or other non-dairy alternatives for a vegan version.

Can I make this soup spicy?

Definitely! Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small diced chili when sautéing the onions will add a gentle heat that pairs beautifully with the sweet tomato and cream flavors.

How can I make this soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, simmer it uncovered for a longer time to reduce the liquid. You can also add a small potato or a handful of cooked rice before blending to add body without altering the flavor much.

What is the best way to preserve the fresh basil flavor?

Add fresh basil leaves right at the end of cooking or as a garnish to capture their bright, aromatic flavor. Cooking basil too long can diminish its vibrant taste, so a late addition is key for freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe is pure joy in a bowl and a testament to how simple ingredients come together to create something truly special. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you just want to treat yourself, I encourage you to make this soup and savor every comforting spoonful. It’s a classic with a creamy twist that feels like a homemade hug every time.