Creamy Tomato Soup with Basil: 5 Indulgent Variations

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Creamy Tomato Soup with Basil is the ultimate comfort food that warms the soul. This velvety tomato soup features sautéed onions and garlic, crushed San Marzano tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese for richness. It’s simplicity at its finest, delivering a rich tomato flavor that pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a melty grilled cheese sandwich. Whether you’re looking to whip up a quick weeknight dinner or impress your guests, this easy creamy tomato soup recipe is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tomato Soup with

This soup is not just a dish; it’s an experience. Here are a few reasons to love it:

Quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Rich and creamy, satisfying your cravings for comfort food.
Homemade creamy tomato soup is healthier than store-bought versions.
Versatile enough to be customized with your favorite ingredients.
Pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese, enhancing the meal.
A great way to use fresh basil, adding depth to the flavors.

This dish is a classic Italian cuisine that brings warmth and satisfaction to your dining table!

Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Soup with

Gather these items:

4 Tbsp unsalted butter
3 cups finely chopped yellow onions (about 2 medium onions)
1 Tbsp minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
56 oz crushed tomatoes (two 28-oz cans, preferably San Marzano) with their juice
2 cups chicken stock
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (plus more for garnish)
1 Tbsp sugar (or to taste)
1/2 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (or to taste)
1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)

How to Make Creamy Tomato Soup with Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat a nonreactive pot or enameled dutch oven over medium heat. Add the butter and wait until melted. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and golden. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Pour in the crushed tomatoes with their juice, the chicken stock, chopped fresh basil, sugar, and black pepper. Stir everything together, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Partially cover the pot with a lid and let the soup simmer gently for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 3: If you prefer a smooth, creamy texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend the soup until reaching your desired consistency. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender, pulse a few times to start, and blend until smooth. Return the blended soup to the pot over medium heat. You can skip this step if you enjoy a chunkier soup.
Step 4: Stir in the heavy whipping cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Return the soup to a gentle simmer to let the cheese melt and flavors combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary, then turn off the heat.
Step 5: Ladle the creamy tomato soup into warm bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil. Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Tomato Soup with

Keep these in mind:

Use high-quality crushed tomatoes for a richer flavor.
Fresh herbs are always better than dried for this recipe.
Adjust the cream and cheese according to your preference for richness.
If you want to add a kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Tomato Soup with

Here are some delicious serving ideas:

Pair it with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a nostalgic experience.
Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
Top with fresh basil or a dollop of pesto for added flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Tomato Soup with

To store, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For reheating, simply place it in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This dish is perfect for meal prep, as it freezes well for up to 3 months!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Tomato Soup with

What is creamy tomato soup?

Creamy tomato soup is a rich and velvety soup made primarily from tomatoes, cream, and aromatic ingredients like onions and garlic. It offers a balance of tangy tomato flavor and creamy texture, making it a comforting dish.

Can I make creamy tomato soup with ahead of time?

Yes! This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Just remember to reheat gently to preserve its creamy texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with creamy tomato soup?

To avoid a non-creamy texture, ensure to blend the soup until smooth and adjust the cream content based on your preference. Also, using quality tomatoes is key to achieving the desired flavor.

Variations of Creamy Tomato Soup with You Can Try

Here are some delightful variations to consider:

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Add more fresh basil for an aromatic twist.
Vegan creamy tomato soup recipe: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Creamy tomato soup with garlic: Increase garlic for a bolder flavor.
Slow cooker creamy tomato soup: Prepare it in a slow cooker for an easy, hands-off approach.

Creamy Tomato Soup with Basil: 5 Indulgent Variations - Creamy Tomato Soup with - main visual representation

For more delicious recipes, check out our Creamy Vegetable Soup or Gingerbread Tiramisu.

Creamy Tomato Soup with Basil: 5 Indulgent Variations - Creamy Tomato Soup with - additional detail

For more tips on using fresh herbs, visit Honey Roasted Root Vegetables for inspiration.