Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe
Velvety tomato soup with fresh basil and a touch of cream
By Sarah Mitchell • June 14, 2026
This creamy tomato basil soup is the ultimate companion to a grilled cheese sandwich — rich, velvety, and bursting with the flavor of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil.
Using canned San Marzano tomatoes gives you consistent, deeply flavored results year-round.
A splash of cream adds richness without making it heavy. Blend until silky smooth.
About This Recipe
"Creamy Tomato Basil Soup" is a Soups & Stews recipe that brings San Marzano whole tomatoes, onion, diced, garlic, minced, chicken or vegetable broth and heavy cream together into a flavorful, well-balanced dish. Rated Easy and ready in about 40 minutes, this recipe fits easily into a busy schedule. It serves 6 and works equally well for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. The American inspiration behind this dish balances classic techniques with clean, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (28 oz) San Marzano whole tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- 1
Sauté onion and garlic in butter until soft, about 5 minutes.
- 2
Add tomatoes (with juices), broth, sugar, and salt. Simmer 20 minutes.
- 3
Add basil leaves. Blend until completely smooth with an immersion blender.
- 4
Stir in heavy cream. Heat through.
- 5
Serve with a grilled cheese sandwich and a drizzle of olive oil.
Expert Tips
For the best result, use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find. San Marzano whole tomatoes is the heart of this dish, so choose it with care. Read the recipe through before you start and prep all ingredients in advance (mise en place) so the cooking process is smooth. Blender work especially well for this preparation. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acid at the end to make the flavors pop.
What To Serve With This
"Creamy Tomato Basil Soup" is a versatile Soups & Stews dish that pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, buttered green beans, roasted potatoes and classic American sides. Choose at least one fresh and one hearty side to create a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating before sealing the container. Reheat gently until warmed through, adding a small splash of liquid if needed to restore the original texture.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking, for a total of roughly 40 minutes. It serves 6 and is rated Easy.
How do I store leftover Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?
Store leftover Creamy Tomato Basil Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.
Can I make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Creamy Tomato Basil Soup in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving to preserve the best texture and flavor.
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