Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe (Cozy Comfort in Under 30 Minutes)
When the weather cools down or you just need something cozy in a bowl, Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is the answer. This homemade version tastes like it came from your favorite café—rich, smooth, and full of real tomato flavor with a buttery finish of fresh basil. The best part? It comes together fast, with pantry staples and one pot.
If you’re looking for an easy, satisfying recipe to warm your soul and impress your taste buds, this is it. Bonus points if you pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich (obviously).
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Made with simple ingredients
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Creamy, rich, and full of flavor
- Perfect for meal prep and freezer-friendly
- Pairs beautifully with bread, sandwiches, or salads
Ingredients
For the soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar (helps balance acidity)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (plus extra for garnish)
| Serving Size:4 | Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes |
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the aromatics
Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the tomatoes and broth
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, broth, salt, pepper, and sugar. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 3: Blend until smooth
Use an immersion blender right in the pot to puree the soup until smooth. If using a traditional blender, let the soup cool slightly and blend in batches.
Step 4: Stir in cream and basil
Once the soup is blended, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and fresh chopped basil. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes, then taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Serve it up
Ladle into bowls, top with a swirl of cream or extra basil if you’re feeling fancy, and serve hot.
Tips for the Best Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
- Use quality canned tomatoes. San Marzano or fire-roasted varieties add a deeper flavor.
- Balance the acidity. A pinch of sugar makes a big difference in mellowing the tomatoes.
- Add the cream off the heat. This keeps it smooth and prevents curdling.
- Don’t skip the blending. That creamy texture is everything. An immersion blender is your best friend here.
- Double the batch. This soup freezes beautifully and makes great leftovers.
Variations to Try
Switch things up based on your mood or what’s in your pantry:
- Roasted Red Pepper Twist: Add one jar of roasted red peppers with the tomatoes for extra depth.
- Cheesy Tomato Basil: Stir in a handful of shredded Parmesan or sharp white cheddar.
- Vegan Version: Use olive oil instead of butter and swap the cream for coconut milk or cashew cream.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while the soup simmers.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked white beans or shredded rotisserie chicken after blending.
FAQs About Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely. Use about 2 pounds of peeled and chopped fresh tomatoes. Roast them first for added flavor, or simmer them longer to break down fully.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, and the flavor actually gets better the next day. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat gently on the stove.
Can I freeze this soup?
Definitely. Let it cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat it?
Warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth or cream.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your broth is certified gluten-free, this soup is naturally gluten-free.
Related Post: Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is the ultimate comfort food that feels fancy but comes together with pantry staples. Whether you’re curled up on the couch on a rainy day or meal prepping for the week ahead, this soup delivers warm, rich flavor every single time.
Pair it with grilled cheese for that classic combo or serve it with a simple green salad and crusty bread. However you dish it up, it’s bound to be a regular in your kitchen.
Let me know how you make it your own—and don’t forget to tag me if you post your cozy soup bowl on Instagram.