Name: Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: 5 Secrets to Perfection
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 28-ounce cans whole tomatoes, drained, 3 cups of juice reserved; 1 tablespoon packed light brown sugar; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 shallots, finely diced (about 1/3 cup); 3 tablespoons tomato paste; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth; 10 leaves fresh basil, plus more for serving; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup finely grated parmesan cheese, plus more for serving; Croutons, store-bought or homemade (optional)

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Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is a delightful dish that warms the soul and tantalizes the taste buds. This recipe is packed with flavor and can be made any time of year, making it an ideal comfort food. Using roasted canned tomatoes intensifies the taste, creating a homemade creamy tomato soup that surpasses any store-bought version. The combination of fresh basil and rich cream turns this dish into a heavenly experience that you won’t forget.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

This creamy tomato soup is not just another soup; it’s a celebration of flavors! Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore it:

Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
Packed with fresh basil, offering a burst of herbal flavor.
Rich and creamy texture that satisfies cravings.
Can be made vegetarian, aligning with various diets.
Versatile; enjoy it hot or chilled as a refreshing summer dish.
This is the best tomato basil soup recipe that’s sure to impress friends and family.

It’s a tomato basil soup recipe that you can whip up in no time, using simple ingredients that are easy to find.

Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Gather these items:

2 28-ounce cans whole tomatoes, drained, 3 cups of juice reserved
1 tablespoon packed light brown sugar
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 shallots, finely diced (about 1/3 cup)
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
10 leaves fresh basil, plus more for serving
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup finely grated parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
Croutons, store-bought or homemade (optional)

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

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 450°F with a rack in the middle position.
Step 2: Drain the tomatoes, reserving 3 cups of liquid. Press down on the tomatoes to release more liquid.
Step 3: Line a baking sheet with foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray. Arrange the tomatoes on the pan and sprinkle with brown sugar. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes until dry. Let cool.
Step 4: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the shallots, tomato paste, and oregano. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until tender.
Step 5: Add the reserved tomato juice, roasted tomatoes, vegetable broth, basil, and vinegar. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 6: Add cream and parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth. Warm before serving.
Step 7: Serve topped with basil, parmesan cheese, and croutons. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Keep these in mind:

This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Feel free to adjust seasoning to taste.
For a gluten-free creamy tomato basil soup, use gluten-free croutons.
Try adding roasted garlic for extra flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Serving suggestions for this delightful soup:

Pair with a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic combination.
Top with croutons for added crunch.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra touch of elegance.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Use the final step from the instructions: The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving. This allows for easy meal prep, ensuring you always have a tasty dish on hand.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?

The secret lies in roasting the tomatoes to enhance their natural sweetness and depth of flavor. This method makes your rich tomato soup with basil incredibly flavorful and satisfying.

Can I make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This easy creamy tomato basil soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just reheat gently before serving for the best taste.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?

Ensure you roast the tomatoes properly for maximum flavor. Avoid overcooking the cream to keep the soup velvety smooth and rich. It’s all about balance!

Variations of Creamy Tomato Basil Soup You Can Try

Experiment with these ideas:

Add roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor.
For a vegetarian creamy tomato basil soup, substitute vegetable broth if you haven’t done so already.
For a spicy kick, include red pepper flakes or jalapeños.
Make a creamy roasted tomato and basil soup by roasting the tomatoes with garlic before blending.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: 5 Secrets to Perfection - Creamy Tomato Basil Soup - main visual representation

Incredible homemade creamy tomato basil soup ready in minutes

For more delicious recipes, check out our Creamy Potato Soup or latest recipes. You can also explore Cranberry Orange Pancakes for a delightful breakfast option!

For more information on the health benefits of tomatoes, visit Healthline.