Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms your soul and tantalizes your taste buds, you’ve landed on the right recipe! This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is not only delicious but also packed with wholesome veggies. It’s a family favorite in my home, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with friends. Whether served alongside a grilled cheese sandwich or enjoyed in a homemade bread bowl, this soup brings a little bit of joy to every table.

What makes this creamy tomato basil soup truly special is its rich texture and vibrant flavor. The combination of fresh ingredients creates a delightful balance that keeps everyone coming back for seconds (and sometimes thirds!). Plus, it’s so easy to make that even novice cooks can whip it up without any fuss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This creamy tomato basil soup comes together in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the comforting flavors, and it’s a sneaky way to get them to eat their veggies!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this soup ahead of time and store it in the fridge, making dinner planning a breeze.
• Deliciously Versatile: Serve it as an appetizer or main course; it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
• Freezes Well: Make a big batch and freeze some for those days when you need something warm and comforting at a moment’s notice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients makes cooking even more enjoyable! Here are the simple, wholesome ingredients you’ll need for this creamy tomato basil soup:

For the Soup Base

• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 2 14.5 ounce cans diced tomatoes (with the juice)
• 2 carrots (finely diced, about 1 cup)
• 1 small onion (finely diced, about 1 cup)
• 3 ribs celery (finely diced, about 1 cup)
• 2 Tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 ½ teaspoons dried basil leaves

For the Creamy Texture

• ½ cup butter
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 ½ cups half and half (or whole milk)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil

Variations

One of the best things about this creamy tomato basil soup is its flexibility. Here are some fun ways to customize your dish:

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost without sacrificing flavor.
• Spice It Up: If you enjoy some heat, add red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables for a spicy twist.
• Go Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut milk for half and half and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a dairy-free version.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary to give your soup an aromatic kick.

How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by adding olive oil to a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, toss in finely diced carrots, onions, and celery. Sauté these veggies for about five minutes until they soften. This step is vital because it builds flavor right from the start!

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Next, stir in your canned diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato paste, chicken broth, dried oregano, and dried basil. Bring everything to a gentle boil and let it cook for several minutes until the vegetables are tender. This mingling of flavors is what makes your creamy tomato basil soup unforgettable!

Step 3: Blend Until Smooth

Now it’s time to blend! Use an immersion blender or carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender—working in batches if needed—to puree until smooth. While blending is optional if you prefer a chunkier texture, I highly recommend it for that velvety finish.

Step 4: Make the Roux

In a separate saucepan over medium-low heat, melt butter. Once melted, whisk in flour continuously for about ten minutes until it turns golden brown. This roux adds richness and thickness to your soup.

Step 5: Combine Roux with Soup

Add a ladle full of your blended soup into the roux; watch as it forms a thick paste! Gradually add more scoops until well combined, then stir this mixture back into your main pot of soup. This step ensures every spoonful is creamy and delightful.

Step 6: Final Touches

Stir in grated parmesan cheese, half and half (or whole milk), salt, freshly ground black pepper, and chopped fresh basil. Taste your creation; you might want more oregano or basil at this stage! Cook everything together for just a few more minutes until warmed through.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Your creamy tomato basil soup is now ready! Serve hot with crusty bread or even in homemade bread bowls for an extra special touch. Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to one week—if there are any left!

Enjoy every comforting spoonful of this deliciously creamy Tomato Basil Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Making the perfect Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is all about those little details that elevate the dish. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out absolutely delicious:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and basil really enhance the flavor and aroma of your soup, giving it that restaurant-quality taste.
• Don’t skip the roux: Preparing a roux (a mixture of flour and butter) adds a rich creaminess to your soup without needing heavy cream, making it more satisfying and velvety.
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste as you go! Start with the recommended amounts of salt and spices, but feel free to add more if you want a bolder flavor.
• Blend to your preference: If you enjoy a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup. For a smoother finish, blend it all. It’s all about what you love!
• Let it sit: Allowing the soup to sit for a bit after cooking can help deepen the flavors. Reheat before serving for best results.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Presenting your Creamy Tomato Basil Soup can turn an everyday meal into something special! Here are some delightful ideas for serving this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few whole or chiffonade-cut fresh basil leaves on top add a pop of color and fresh aroma.
• Shaved parmesan: Sprinkle some shaved parmesan cheese right before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving can enhance the richness and flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing! The gooey cheese and crunchy bread complement the soup’s creaminess perfectly.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty baguette or artisan bread for dipping; it’s a simple yet satisfying addition.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup and adds some crunch.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables provide extra nutrients and flavor that harmonize beautifully with tomato basil soup.

Enjoy your warm bowl of Creamy Tomato Basil Soup, paired perfectly with these suggestions! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This creamy Tomato Basil Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to properly store and enjoy your soup later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• If you prefer, portion out servings into smaller containers for easy grab-and-go meals.

Freezing

• Cool the soup completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to three months.
• For best results, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Transfer the desired amount of soup to a saucepan over medium heat.
• Stir occasionally until heated through; add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make creamy Tomato Basil Soup vegan?

Yes! You can substitute butter with plant-based margarine and use non-dairy milk instead of half and half for a delicious vegan version.

What makes this Creamy Tomato Basil Soup so special?

This recipe is special because it combines fresh ingredients with hidden veggies, making it both hearty and nutritious. Enjoying a bowl feels comforting and indulgent!

How can I adjust the thickness of my Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?

You can adjust thickness by adding more broth for a thinner consistency or blending longer for a smoother texture.

What are some great toppings for creamy Tomato Basil Soup?

Delicious toppings include croutons, additional fresh basil, or a drizzle of olive oil. You might also try a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for added flavor!

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned in this Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?

Absolutely! If using fresh tomatoes, you’ll need about 2-3 pounds. Blanch them first to easily remove the skins, then proceed with the recipe as usual.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this creamy Tomato Basil Soup! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort on chilly days. The blend of flavors and textures makes it truly special. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite toppings or sides. Happy cooking!