Description
A smooth and creamy tomato basil soup made with crushed tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a touch of cream. This comforting Italian-inspired soup is easy to prepare on the stovetop and perfect served warm alongside grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 cans crushed tomatoes (28 oz total)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Finishing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in sugar, salt, and pepper to taste to balance acidity and season.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook gently for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Blend Until Smooth: Remove the pot from heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend.
- Add Cream and Basil: Return the soup to low heat, then stir in the heavy cream and fresh basil leaves. Cook a few more minutes until heated through but do not boil to preserve the fresh basil flavor.
- Serve: Ladle the warm creamy tomato basil soup into bowls and enjoy immediately, optionally garnished with croutons or parmesan cheese.
Notes
- For deeper flavor, use canned fire-roasted tomatoes instead of regular crushed tomatoes.
- Garnish with crunchy croutons, a drizzle of olive oil, or freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.
- This soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches or fresh crusty bread for dipping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian Inspired
