The Best Homemade Tomato Basil Soup Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade tomato basil soup is cozy, comforting, and packed with fresh flavors. You’ll love how easy it is to make, even on a busy weeknight.
- Rich and creamy without heavy cream, thanks to blended tomatoes and a touch of butter.
- Bursting with freshness from ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil, making every spoonful taste like summer.
- Versatile and forgiving—tweak the herbs or add a splash of cream if you’re feeling fancy!
Recipe
Warm up with a comforting bowl of homemade tomato basil soup, a classic dish that combines the rich flavors of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil. This recipe is simple to make and perfect for any season.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (28 oz) cans whole peeled tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the canned tomatoes with their juices and the vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
- Return the soup to the pot and stir in the chopped basil, sugar, and heavy cream (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Heat the soup gently over low heat until warmed through. Serve hot.
Notes:
- For a lighter version, omit the heavy cream.
- Fresh basil is preferred for the best flavor, but 1 tbsp dried basil can be used as a substitute.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Immersion blender or regular blender
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
4-6 servings
Nutrition
Homemade Tomato Basil Soup is a nutritious option packed with vitamins and minerals. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving (approx. 1 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Total Fat | 5g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 10mg |
| Sodium | 480mg |
| Total Carbs | 15g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 9g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Vitamin A | 20% DV |
| Vitamin C | 25% DV |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade tomato basil soup with warm, crusty bread for dipping—it’s the perfect way to soak up every last bite. A classic grilled cheese sandwich is another favorite combo, adding a comforting, gooey crunch to the meal. These sides make the soup feel like a complete, cozy experience every time.
Crusty Bread Pairing
Nothing complements a bowl of tomato basil soup like a slice of crusty bread, ready to soak up every bit of its rich, savory goodness. I love tearing off a piece of warm, golden baguette and dipping it into the soup, letting the flavors mingle. A sourdough loaf works wonders too, with its tangy taste and chewy texture. Sometimes, I’ll toast the bread for extra crunch, or rub it with garlic for a bit of kick. It’s simple, but that’s what makes it perfect. The bread balances the soup’s creaminess, making each bite feel cozy and complete. Trust me, it’s a match made in heaven.
Grilled Cheese Combo
Though tomato basil soup is delicious on its own, pairing it with a grilled cheese sandwich takes it to another level. I love how the creamy, tangy soup balances the crispy, gooey sandwich. My go-to combo is sourdough bread, sharp cheddar, and a hint of butter. It’s simple, but the flavors just click. Dip the sandwich into the soup, and it’s pure comfort. Sometimes, I add a slice of tomato or a sprinkle of basil to the grilled cheese for an extra twist. This combo feels nostalgic, like a warm hug on a chilly day. Trust me, it’s worth trying.
