Name: Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, chopped (or two 28-ounce cans whole peeled tomatoes); 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 3 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ½ cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed, plus more for garnish; ½ cup heavy cream; Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

There's nothing more comforting than a steaming bowl of Creamy Tomato Basil Soup! This soup is absolutely dreamy with its silky, smooth texture, garden-fresh basil, and the perfect balance of sweet and tangy tomatoes.

Each spoonful is velvety and rich, with a depth of flavor that tastes like it's been simmering for hours-even though it's ready in less than 40 minutes! It's the ultimate cozy meal for chilly nights, lazy weekends, and anytime you're craving a bowl of pure comfort.

This recipe's secret? A splash of cream and loads of fresh basil bring restaurant-worthy flavor with almost zero fuss. It's seriously easy, made in one pot, and perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Once you try it, you'll see why it's become my go-to for a quick, soul-soothing treat-especially when served with a golden, cheesy grilled cheese sandwich!

A steaming bowl of creamy tomato basil soup garnished with fresh basil

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Ultra creamy and smooth without being heavy
Packed with bright, fresh tomato and basil flavor
Simple, one-pot prep-ready in under an hour
Cozy, comforting, and perfect for pairing with grilled cheese
Family-friendly and a great way to use up extra tomatoes

Key Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Ripe Tomatoes

Fresh tomatoes are the heart and soul of this soup. They deliver a sweet-tart, summery flavor that canned tomatoes just can't match (though good-quality canned will work in a pinch). Roma or plum tomatoes are great for their meaty texture, but any ripe, juicy tomato will do. If tomatoes are out of season, opt for San Marzano canned tomatoes for an unbeatable alternative.

Fresh Basil

Basil adds a fragrant, herbal finish that really makes the soup pop. Tear or roughly chop it just before adding, for the freshest taste. If you're out of fresh basil, swap in a couple teaspoons of dried, but expect a slightly milder flavor. Try Thai basil for a spicy twist!

Heavy Cream

This is what sets creamy tomato basil soup apart. The cream brings luxurious silkiness and a rich mouthfeel. Want to lighten it up? Substitute half-and-half, coconut milk, or even cashew cream for a dairy-free version. You can also use whole milk for a slightly thinner, but still delicious, result.

Onion and Garlic

A base of sautéed onion and garlic provides subtle sweetness and savory depth. Yellow or sweet onions work best, but any onion will do the job. Don't skip the garlic-it ties the soup together and enhances every bite.

Vegetable Broth

Vegetable broth builds up the soup's flavor and keeps it vegetarian-friendly. Chicken broth is a fine substitute if you prefer a richer, savory note. For a thicker soup, use less broth or swap in stock.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup cooking process

Instructions for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, just until fragrant-be careful not to let it brown.

Build the Tomato Base

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen its flavor. Add your chopped fresh tomatoes (or canned, with juices) to the pot, and pour in the vegetable broth. Season with sugar, salt, and black pepper. If you like a little heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the tomatoes to break down and all the flavors to meld together. The soup will start to thicken slightly-if it gets too thick, add a splash more broth.

Blend It Smooth

Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the fresh basil leaves. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until silky-smooth, or carefully transfer it in batches to a blender. (If using a blender, be sure to vent the lid and blend in small amounts!)

Add the Cream and Finish

Stir in the heavy cream. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Warm gently over low heat for another 2-3 minutes, but don't let it boil-this keeps it perfectly creamy.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle hot soup into bowls. Swirl with extra cream if desired, and shower with fresh basil leaves for a beautiful finish. Serve with your favorite crusty bread or a gooey grilled cheese.

Recipe Variations

Make It Vegan

Omit the heavy cream and substitute with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream. The result is still decadently creamy, with a subtle nutty or tropical note that pairs beautifully with tomato and basil.

Use Roasted Tomatoes

Want an even richer flavor? Roast your fresh tomatoes in the oven with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt before adding them to the soup. Roasting concentrates their sweetness and adds a caramelized depth.

Swap in Other Herbs

Try adding thyme or oregano along with, or in place of, basil for an earthy Mediterranean twist. A sprinkle of chives or parsley at the end gives extra brightness.

Add Protein or Whole Grains

Boost this soup's heartiness by stirring in cooked white beans, lentils, or small pasta like ditalini after blending. It's a smart way to make it a more filling main course.

Gluten-Free Friendly

The base recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to serve with gluten-free bread or crackers if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your creamy tomato basil soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich, a thick slice of artisan sourdough, or herby garlic bread for ultimate comfort. Top each serving with a swirl of cream and a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh basil. A handful of homemade croutons or a light side salad also make excellent accompaniments!

Storage and Reheating

Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring often. You can also reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between each. This soup freezes beautifully-just leave out the cream before freezing, and stir it in after reheating for best texture. Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Tomato Basil Soup (FAQ)

Q: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

A: Absolutely! Good-quality canned whole peeled tomatoes (like San Marzano) work perfectly and are a great option when fresh tomatoes aren't in season.

Q: How do I make the soup dairy-free?

A: Swap the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream. The soup will still be super creamy and delicious!

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?

A: Yes, it's a great meal prep option. The flavors actually improve as it sits, so feel free to make it a day or two in advance and gently reheat before serving.

The next time you're craving comfort in a bowl, this Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is just the thing. It's easy, deeply flavored, and guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out. Try it tonight-and if you love it, leave a rating or a comment to let me know how it turned out!

Why You'll Love This Recipe