This Tomato Basil Soup is smooth, cozy, and ready in under 30 minutes. Made with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil, it’s the perfect weeknight soup for busy evenings, light dinners, or pairing with grilled cheese.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy ready in about 25 minutes
- Family-friendly and naturally comforting
- Budget-friendly pantry ingredients
- Customizable: creamy or dairy-free
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 (28 oz) cans crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Creaminess (Optional)
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
For Finishing
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until soft.
- Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes; cook 30 seconds.
- Add crushed tomatoes and broth. Stir well.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to blend until smooth (or carefully transfer to a blender).
- Stir in cream if using and simmer 2–3 minutes.
- Add fresh basil, adjust seasoning, and serve warm.
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Immersion blender or countertop blender
- Measuring cups & spoons
Tips & Variations
- Extra creamy: Add more cream or a spoon of butter
- Dairy-free: Skip cream or use coconut milk
- Roasted flavor: Roast tomatoes first for deeper flavor
- Too acidic? Add a pinch of sugar or honey
- Storage: Refrigerate up to 4 days
- Reheating: Warm gently on stovetop or microwave
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with grilled cheese or garlic bread
- Serve with a simple green salad
- Garnish with basil ribbons and Parmesan
- Drizzle with olive oil for presentation
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 260
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 17g
Conclusion
This Tomato Basil Soup (Weeknight Favorite) is proof that simple ingredients can create big comfort. Cozy, classic, and fast, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Save it, print it, and enjoy it anytime you need an easy, comforting meal.
FAQ – Tomato Basil Soup
Can I freeze tomato basil soup?
Yes. Freeze without cream for best texture, then add cream when reheating.
How do I make it ahead of time?
Prepare fully and refrigerate up to 3 days.
Can I use fresh tomatoes?
Yes about 3 pounds of ripe tomatoes, simmered longer.
What if my soup is too acidic?
Add a pinch of sugar, honey, or a splash of cream.
Can I make this vegan?
Absolutely use vegetable broth and skip the cream.