If you are craving something comforting, flavorful, and effortlessly elegant, this Tomato Basil Soup Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It combines simple pantry staples with fresh basil to create a vibrant, silky soup that soothes the soul and delights the palate. Whether you want a hearty lunch or a cozy dinner starter, this recipe brings out the bright acidity of tomatoes balanced perfectly by aromatic basil, a hint of creamy richness, and just the right touch of seasoning. It’s the kind of soup that warms your heart and impresses guests without hours of prep or complicated steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All of the ingredients for this recipe are straightforward but essential. Each one plays a role, whether it’s layering flavors, adding texture, or ensuring the soup has that beautiful red hue and fresh finish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a rich, fruity base for sautéing the aromatics.
- 1 medium yellow onion (chopped): Provides sweetness and depth once softened.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Packs a punch of savory fragrance that elevates the soup.
- 2 (28-ounce) cans whole peeled tomatoes with juice: The heart of the soup, delivering a robust tomato flavor and vibrant color.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato taste and adds a subtle sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the natural acidity of the tomatoes perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Brings out all the natural flavors harmoniously.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a hint of warm spice.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Infuses a touch of herbal earthiness.
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped): Provides that signature fresh, aromatic lift.
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth): Creates the perfect soup base with added depth and moisture.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional for creaminess): Gives the soup a luscious, silky texture and richness.
- Fresh basil and cracked black pepper for garnish: Finishing touches that bring freshness and visual appeal.
How to Make Tomato Basil Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and let it cook gently for about 5 to 6 minutes until it turns translucent and softens, releasing its natural sweetness. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until you smell that irresistible aroma filling your kitchen. This step builds the flavorful foundation for the entire soup.
Step 2: Build the Tomato Base
Add the tomato paste to the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for one minute. This extra step intensifies the tomato flavor and adds a lovely depth. Next, pour in the cans of whole peeled tomatoes along with their juice. The juicy tomatoes will break down beautifully during cooking, creating that luscious texture we want. Sprinkle in the sugar, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano, and stir to combine all those wonderful layers.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring everything up to a gentle simmer. Let the soup cook uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir occasionally to meld the flavors and allow the soup to thicken slightly. This simmering step is where magic happens, transforming simple ingredients into a harmonious, rich blend.
Step 4: Puree to Perfection
Once the soup has cooked down and all the ingredients are tender, use an immersion blender to puree everything until silky smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender, making sure to cool slightly and avoid splatters. The smooth texture is essential for that classic tomato basil soup experience.
Step 5: Add Creaminess and Final Touches
Return the pureed soup to the pot and stir in heavy cream or coconut milk if you want a creamier finish. Simmer for another 5 minutes to warm through and blend all the flavors. Taste your masterpiece and adjust seasoning if needed. Now it’s ready to serve with fresh basil and a few cracks of black pepper on top for extra flavor and a beautiful appearance.
How to Serve Tomato Basil Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your soup from cozy comfort to show-stopping dish. Sprinkle freshly chopped basil leaves to highlight the soup’s fresh herbal notes. A drizzle of cream or swirl of coconut milk adds creaminess and visual appeal. Lastly, a grind of cracked black pepper adds a slight kick and contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Side Dishes
Tomato basil soup pairs beautifully with grilled cheese sandwiches, making it a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing meal. You could also serve crusty artisan bread or warm garlic bread on the side for dipping. For a lighter option, try a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve the soup in mini bread bowls or hollowed-out tomatoes for an impressive touch. Garnish with basil oil or a pesto drizzle to add an herbaceous flair. If entertaining, offer a build-your-own topping station with crispy bacon bits, toasted pine nuts, or shredded cheese to personalize each bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Tomato Basil Soup Recipe keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Simply transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container and store it chilled. Proper storage preserves flavor and texture so you can enjoy your soup again with minimal effort.
Freezing
To save your homemade soup for later, freeze it in portion-sized containers. It stays deliciously fresh for up to 3 months. Just leave some room at the top of the container since the soup will expand as it freezes. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Gently reheat your soup on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. This method warms the soup evenly without risking burning or separation. If it’s too thick after reheating, add a splash of broth or cream and stir to restore its perfect consistency.
FAQs
Can I make this Tomato Basil Soup Recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Just swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This keeps the soup creamy and flavorful while staying entirely plant-based.
Is fresh basil necessary or can I use dried?
Fresh basil really makes the recipe sing with its bright, vibrant flavor. Dried basil can be used in a pinch, but add it earlier in the cooking process so it has time to release its aroma. The fresh leaves as garnish add the best finishing touch.
How can I make the soup spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions or stir in some cayenne pepper during the simmering stage. A splash of hot sauce just before serving also kicks up the heat gracefully.
Can I prepare this soup in advance for a party?
Yes! Tomato basil soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Prepare it a day ahead, refrigerate, and gently reheat before serving. It’s an easy, impressive make-ahead meal.
What’s the best way to thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
Simmer it uncovered a bit longer to reduce excess liquid. Alternatively, stir in a small amount of tomato paste or a dollop of cream to thicken and enrich the texture without losing that fresh flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly nothing like a warm bowl of homemade tomato basil soup to brighten your day and soothe your senses. This Tomato Basil Soup Recipe is a timeless classic that’s wonderfully easy to make and endlessly satisfying. I encourage you to dive in, whip up a batch, and share it with loved ones. It’s simple, delicious, and destined to become your go-to comfort food!
Print
Tomato Basil Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic, creamy tomato basil soup made from scratch using fresh ingredients and canned tomatoes. This easy stovetop recipe is perfect for a comforting meal and can be made vegetarian or vegan with simple substitutions.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (28-ounce) cans whole peeled tomatoes with juice
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional for creaminess)
For Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves
- Cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Sauté Onion: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 to 6 minutes, until translucent and tender, which builds the soup’s foundational flavor.
- Add Garlic and Tomato Paste: Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to enhance its rich, concentrated flavor.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the canned whole peeled tomatoes with their juices. Add sugar, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and fresh chopped basil. Stir to combine the flavors thoroughly.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the flavors to meld and the soup to reduce slightly.
- Puree the Soup: Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender. Blend until you achieve a creamy consistency.
- Add Cream and Final Simmer: Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk if using, then simmer the soup for another 5 minutes to meld all flavors and heat through.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and cracked black pepper.
Notes
- This soup pairs perfectly with grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty artisan bread for a hearty meal.
- For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use vegetable broth.
- You can adjust the thickness by adding more broth or cream based on your preference.
- Fresh basil added at the end brightens the flavor wonderfully.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
