Tomato Basil Soup: The Creamy Classic That Never Fails
There’s something incredibly soothing about a warm bowl of Tomato Basil Soup. It’s rich, velvety, and bursting with the fresh taste of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil. Whether you’re pairing it with a grilled cheese or sipping it solo, this soup is an easy comfort food favorite that tastes like a hug in a bowl.
🥕 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (28 oz) cans whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to cut acidity)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, for topping
- Croutons or toasted bread, for serving
🍲 Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the canned tomatoes (with juices) and broth. Stir and bring to a simmer. Break up the tomatoes with a spoon. Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes.
Blend the Soup: Remove from heat and add fresh basil. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, blend in batches using a standard blender (be cautious with hot liquids).
Finish with Cream: Return the soup to low heat. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, pepper, and sugar if using. Simmer for 5 more minutes to let the flavors meld.
Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with a swirl of cream, grated Parmigiano, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or croutons. Serve hot with toasted bread.
📦 Amazon Must-Haves to Help You Create the Best Tomato Basil Soup
- 🍅 San Marzano Tomatoes — Rich, sweet tomatoes that form the perfect soup base.
- 🧄 Olive Oil for Sautéing — High-quality oil enhances the garlic and onion flavors.
- 🌿 Dried Basil or Fresh Basil Grow Kit — Choose dried for convenience or grow your own for fresh herbal brightness.
- 🥣 Immersion Hand Blender — Blend your soup right in the pot for silky smooth results.
- 🍽️ Soup Bowls with Handles — Serve hot soup safely and stylishly.
- 🧀 Parmigiano-Reggiano Wedge — Adds nutty, salty richness to finish your soup.
Pro Tip: For extra depth of flavor, roast the canned tomatoes with garlic and olive oil before blending. It brings out their natural sweetness and gives the soup a slightly smoky edge.