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Creamy Cozy Tomato Basil Soup

creamy tomato basil soup - featured image

A rich and velvety tomato basil soup with a hint of fresh basil, perfect for cozy nights and quick comfort food. Ready in about 30 minutes, this soup blends simple ingredients into a delicious, creamy bowl of warmth.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 28 oz (800 g) canned whole peeled tomatoes (San Marzano recommended)
  • 3 cups (720 ml) vegetable broth or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream (can substitute coconut cream for dairy-free)
  • 1/2 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika (optional for extra warmth or kick)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking, about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Add the chopped onions and sauté gently for 6-8 minutes until translucent and slightly golden, stirring occasionally.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Pour in the canned tomatoes with their juices and break them up gently with a spoon or spatula, about 1 minute.
  5. Add the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Remove the pot from heat and add the fresh basil leaves. Puree the soup directly in the pot using an immersion blender until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, blend in batches using a regular blender, venting the lid slightly.
  7. Return the soup to low heat and stir in the heavy cream. Heat through for 2-3 minutes without boiling.
  8. Taste and season with salt, black pepper, and sugar if needed. Adjust seasoning gradually.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with torn basil leaves or a drizzle of cream if desired.

Notes

Sauté onions slowly over medium heat to bring out natural sweetness. Use fresh garlic for best aroma. Blend carefully to avoid splatters. Add fresh basil at the end to preserve flavor. Adjust thickness with extra broth or cream as needed. For dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: tomato soup, creamy tomato soup, basil soup, comfort food, easy soup recipe, quick soup, homemade soup, cozy soup