There’s nothing more comforting than a bowl of warm, creamy tomato basil soup. This classic dish combines the rich, tangy flavors of ripe tomatoes with the fragrant aroma of fresh basil, creating a satisfying, velvety soup that can be enjoyed year-round. Perfect for dipping with a grilled cheese sandwich or as a light starter, this homemade tomato basil soup offers a deeper, more vibrant flavor than anything from a can.
The creamy texture and balance of sweetness and acidity make this soup a crowd-pleaser. Using fresh ingredients and a touch of cream, it’s easy to make from scratch and delivers a restaurant-quality experience right at home.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can of whole tomatoes, drained and chopped)
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free version)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
- Cook the Tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and release their juices. If using canned tomatoes, be sure to scrape the sides of the can to get all the juices.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and add the sugar if needed to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Blend the Soup: Once the tomatoes have softened and the soup has simmered, use an immersion blender to purée the soup directly in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender in batches. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend part of the soup and leave some pieces intact.
- Add the Cream and Basil: Stir in the heavy cream, chopped basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the cream to incorporate into the soup and the flavors to combine.
- Serve: Ladle the creamy tomato basil soup into bowls and garnish with extra fresh basil. Serve with crusty bread, croutons, or a grilled cheese sandwich on the side for the ultimate comfort meal.
This creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect combination of warmth, flavor, and richness, making it a classic favorite for all ages. It’s simple to prepare yet feels indulgent, and it pairs beautifully with any fresh, hearty bread.
