Classic Tomato Basil Soup

Name: Classic Tomato Basil Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon sugar; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Bowl Recipes

As a comfort food enthusiast, I find that nothing warms the soul quite like a steaming bowl of classic tomato basil soup. The rich, tangy flavor of ripe tomatoes combined with the fragrant aroma of fresh basil always brings me back to my childhood kitchen, where evenings were filled with delightful scents. I love how simple ingredients come together to create such a vibrant and comforting dish that’s perfect for any season, especially when paired with a crusty piece of bread.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T13:42:28.099Z

Making this classic tomato basil soup has become a cherished tradition in my home. I remember the first time I crafted it; I was amazed at how the simplest ingredients could yield such a burst of flavor. The balance of sweet tomatoes and aromatic basil creates a delightful symphony on the palate. This dish works so beautifully because of the roasting technique I employ, which concentrates the flavors and adds a lovely depth to the soup.

One detail I learned along the way is to always use ripe, in-season tomatoes, if possible. Not only does it enhance the flavor, but it also makes the soup brighter in color. When I garnish with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh basil just before serving, it transforms the presentation and elevates the overall experience. It's a simple yet powerful tip that I always encourage.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors
Rich and creamy texture that warms the soul
Easy to make and takes just 45 minutes from start to finish

      

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Using ripe, quality tomatoes is crucial for achieving a robust flavor in your tomato basil soup. Canned crushed tomatoes are a solid choice as they provide a consistent taste year-round, but if you opt for fresh tomatoes, consider vine-ripened varieties. They should be at their peak ripeness—vivid in color and fragrant—ensuring that they impart a naturally sweet and tangy flavor essence to the soup.

Fresh basil leaves not only contribute to the aroma but also infuse the soup with a refreshing herbaceous note. It's best to add the basil towards the end of cooking to preserve its vibrant color and flavor. If fresh basil isn’t available, dried basil can be used, but remember to reduce the quantity by half as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

Texture and Creaminess

Achieving that captivating creamy texture is essential for a comforting bowl of tomato basil soup. If you're aiming for a vegan option, you can skip the heavy cream and incorporate a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream, which brings a pleasant richness without dairy. If you decide to include heavy cream, adding it towards the end of the cooking process allows for a silky smooth finish without curdling.

When blending the soup, I recommend using an immersion blender for the easiest results. This ensures you can control the texture, blending it just until smooth but still leaving some small bits for a lovely rustic touch. If using a regular blender, be sure to let the soup cool slightly and blend in batches to avoid splattering.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful tomato basil soup.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
1 cup vegetable broth
1 tablespoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Steps

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious soup.

Sauté the aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.

Combine the main ingredients

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Add sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

Blend and finish

Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Stir in the fresh basil leaves and, if desired, add heavy cream for a richer texture. Heat through for 5 additional minutes.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a drizzle of olive oil and extra basil leaves if desired.

Enjoy your homemade tomato basil soup with bread or a fresh salad!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking. You can also experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano for a flavor variation.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This soup stores well, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep. Cooked and cooled soup can be transferred to an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. If it thickens too much during storage, a splash of vegetable broth can restore its desired consistency.

For long-term storage, consider freezing the soup. Allow it to cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. When properly stored, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and be sure to stir well to redistribute the ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Serving classic tomato basil soup is an opportunity to get creative. I love to garnish with a drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese for added richness. Pairing it with a toasted baguette or grilled cheese sandwich offers a wonderful textural contrast, making each bite a delightful experience.

For a twist, consider adding toppings such as croutons, a dollop of pesto, or even a dash of chili flakes for some heat. Each addition provides layers of flavor, enhancing the already rich tomato basil soup and making it a memorable dish for any gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! The soup can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ Can I freeze tomato soup?

Yes! Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with tomato basil soup?

A classic pairing is grilled cheese, but you can also enjoy it with crusty bread or a fresh salad.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Yes, simply omit the heavy cream or substitute it with a plant-based cream for a delicious vegan version.