On a cool day, few things are as comforting as a warm bowl of homemade tomato soup. This creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect blend of rich tomatoes, fresh basil, and a creamy texture that will leave you craving more. It’s simple to make, filled with vibrant flavors, and perfect for pairing with a grilled cheese sandwich.
Ingredients:
4 large ripe tomatoes (or one 14.5 oz can of diced tomatoes)
1 small onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (plus extra for garnish)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Instructions:
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Next, add the fresh tomatoes (or canned tomatoes if you’re using them) to the pot. Stir everything together and let it cook for 5-7 minutes. If you’re using fresh tomatoes, you can chop them roughly and allow them to break down as they cook. If you want a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender at this point to puree the mixture.
Add the vegetable or chicken broth to the pot and bring everything to a simmer. Let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Once the soup has simmered and the tomatoes have softened, add the heavy cream, fresh basil leaves, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine. If the soup is too acidic, you can add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the flavor.
Once the soup is smooth and creamy, use an immersion blender for a velvety consistency, or carefully transfer the mixture in batches to a regular blender. Be sure to blend until the soup is completely smooth.
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or sugar if necessary.
Serve your creamy tomato basil soup hot, garnished with extra fresh basil leaves. You can pair it with a side of warm, toasted bread or a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal.
