Creamy Tomato Basil Soup – Easy Comfort Food Recipes

Name: Creamy Tomato Basil Soup – Easy Comfort Food Recipes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: ½ cup plain all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil; 1½ teaspoons dried sweet basil; 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomato paste; 1½ cups half-and-half or whole milk; 1 teaspoon dried oregano flakes; ½ cup unsalted butter; 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1 cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 stalks celery, finely chopped; ¼ cup freshly chopped basil leaves; 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper; 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken stock; 2 medium carrots, finely chopped

Kathleen Looney August 7, 2025

Servings: 8 Total Time: 40 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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When you think of comfort food, creamy tomato basil soup often tops the list. It’s smooth, rich, and bursting with flavor. But let’s face it, no one enjoys eating soup alone. Pair this delightful dish with a warm, crusty baguette, a fresh garden salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich, and you have a meal that warms your soul and makes your taste buds dance.

In this post, I’ll guide you through everything you need to know about making the perfect creamy tomato basil soup. Trust me; your kitchen will smell amazing!

What is Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?

Creamy tomato basil soup is a velvety blend of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of cream. It’s the essence of classic Italian cooking. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

While some recipes keep it simple, my version incorporates a variety of ingredients that elevate it beyond the norm. After a long day, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of this soup—not just to fill your stomach but also your heart.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. You don’t need to be a master chef to whip up this dish. With just a handful of accessible ingredients, you can create something that feels undeniably gourmet.

Additionally, it’s versatile. Whether you’re in the mood for a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this soup fits the bill.

The flavor profile is also a big selling point. The sun-dried tomatoes give it depth, while fresh basil adds a vibrant, aromatic lift. Each spoonful encapsulates a flavor that transports you to an Italian pizzeria without leaving your kitchen. Let’s be real: when you can serve something this satisfying with any meal, you’re bound to win some fans.

The Ingredients You Will Need to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious recipe:

½ cup plain all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1½ teaspoons dried sweet basil
2 tablespoons sun-dried tomato paste
1½ cups half-and-half or whole milk
2 cans (14.5 ounces each) fire-roasted diced tomatoes, including juices
1 teaspoon dried oregano flakes
½ cup unsalted butter
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
1 cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 stalks celery, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
¼ cup freshly chopped basil leaves
1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
4 cups reduced-sodium chicken stock
2 medium carrots, finely chopped (about 1 cup)

Directions

Now, let’s dive into the steps that will lead you to your creamy tomato basil haven!

Step 1: Prepare Your Base

Begin by heating the extra-virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. In this glorious blend of oil and heat, toss in the finely chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. This trio adds a depth of flavor that can’t be rushed. Cook until the vegetables soften and become fragrant—about 5 to 7 minutes.

Step 2: Add Flour

Sprinkle the flour into the pot and stir continuously for about two minutes. This step creates a roux that will help thicken your soup. It should be a light golden color, like the perfect sun-kissed pasta.

Step 3: Incorporate Liquids

Gradually whisk in the half-and-half (or whole milk) and chicken stock. Don’t rush this process; whisking prevents lumps from forming. Once you have a smooth mixture, bring it to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Next, stir in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes, sun-dried tomato paste, dried sweet basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. This is the moment when your kitchen starts to envelop you in the most heavenly aroma. Let it simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes. Your senses will thank you for the anticipation.

Step 5: Blend It Up

At this point, it’s time to take your immersion blender and make magic happen. Carefully blend the soup until it’s creamy and smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer it to a traditional blender in batches. Just be cautious of hot splatters!

Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Fresh Basil

Once blended, return the soup to low heat. Stir in the freshly shredded Parmesan cheese and chopped basil leaves. Give it a taste test and adjust the seasonings to suit your palate. You might just find you crave a bit more cheese—who doesn’t, right?

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan. Pair it with a warm baguette or a simple salad, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to impress anyone who shares your table.

Notes

Here are some expert tips for making your creamy tomato basil soup even better:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh tomatoes and basil. The flavor boost is worth the little extra effort.
Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer. For a lighter version, add more stock or milk.
Add Spice: Feeling adventurous? A pinch of red pepper flakes can give your soup a delightful kick.
Cheese Alternatives: If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Garnish Creatively: Consider a drizzle of balsamic reduction on top for an extra layer of flavor and presentation.

Storage Tips

This soup keeps remarkably well. Here’s how to store it:

Refrigerate: Place soup in an airtight container. It can last in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the soup before adding cream. Use freezer-safe bags or containers and label them. It can last for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Nutrition Information

Curious about how this heavenly dish stacks up? Here’s a rough breakdown per serving (based on 8 servings):

Calories: 260
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 4g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Sodium: 600mg

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider these serving suggestions:

With Grilled Cheese: Pair your soup with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich for a classic comfort meal. The crunchy exterior and oozy interior meld beautifully with the soup.
Croutons: Top your soup with crispy homemade croutons. They add a wonderful texture that complements the smoothness of the soup.
Fresh Herbs: Garnish with extra chopped basil or even a sprinkle of parsley for color and freshness.
Avocado Slices: For a modern twist, serve with avocado slices on the side. The creaminess of the avocado plays well with the soup.
Drizzle of Oil: A drizzle of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil right before serving enhances the flavor and adds a touch of luxury.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?

Vegetable Broth: If you want to keep it vegetarian or vegan, use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. It provides a rich base for the flavors.
Coconut Milk: For a dairy-free version, opt for coconut milk. It imparts a subtle sweetness and creaminess.
Cauliflower: For added nutrition and a thickness boost, blend in some steamed cauliflower. It’s a sneaky way to get your veggies!
Grated Carrots: Instead of whole carrots, grate them for quicker cooking and a smoother blend.
Cream Cheese: If you’re looking for a richer texture, cream cheese can be added at the end for an extra creamy finish.

Conclusion

Creamy tomato basil soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace. With the rich flavors and smooth texture, it’s something you’ll want to serve time and again. Whether it graces your table on a chilly evening or finds its way into lunch all year long, it’s bound to be a hit.

Trust me, once you’ve made it from scratch, you’ll find yourself turning back to this recipe. It’s a dish that builds warmth, both in your body and spirit. So roll up your sleeves and bring this dish to life; you won’t regret it!

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Print Recipe

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup – Easy Comfort Food Recipes

Author: Kathleen Looney Cuisine: American Courses: Appetizer, Main Course, Soup

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 40 mins

Servings: 8 Calories: 260

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

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