Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe: Rich & Comforting

This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe is a comforting, high-protein dish with 12 grams of protein per serving. It combines ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a creamy base for a rich, savory flavor. I made this for a rainy day lunch, and everyone loved the warm, creamy taste! Ready in about 40 minutes, it’s perfect for cozy meals or starters. This stovetop recipe delivers a nourishing, flavorful soup with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

This soup is easy to prepare with a pot and a blender. It offers 12 grams of protein from cream and optional add-ins, making it a filling meal. The tomatoes and basil create a fresh flavor that pairs well with bread or salads. I love how you can customize it with extra herbs or spices. It’s ideal for lunch, dinner, or when you need a comforting dish.

Health Benefits of Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Tomatoes provide vitamin C and lycopene for immunity and heart health. Basil offers antioxidants for cell protection. Cream adds calcium for bone health. Garlic contributes small amounts of immune-boosting compounds. This soup is a balanced option when served with a protein side.

Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

For the Soup:

• 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For Garnish (Optional):

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
• 1 tbsp grated parmesan cheese

Substitutions: Use canned tomatoes instead of fresh for convenience. Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Replace vegetable broth with chicken broth for added protein. Use dried basil if fresh is unavailable.

Notes: Choose ripe tomatoes for the best sweetness. Blend soup carefully to avoid splatters.

How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat; add onion and garlic, cooking for 4-5 minutes until soft. This builds a flavorful base for the soup.

Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in chopped tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until tomatoes break down.

Blend the Soup

Remove from heat; add fresh basil and use an immersion blender to puree until smooth. This creates a creamy texture without lumps.

Add Cream

Stir in heavy cream over low heat for 2-3 minutes until warmed through. This adds a creamy, rich finish to the soup.

Garnish and Serve

Ladle soup into bowls; top with chopped basil and parmesan for a fresh, cheesy garnish. Serve hot with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.

Cooking Tips

Use ripe tomatoes for a sweeter, more flavorful soup. This reduces the need for added sugar. I chose ripe ones, and it was perfect.

Sauté onion and garlic until soft to avoid bitterness. This builds depth. I cooked slowly, and it was savory.

Blend in batches if using a standing blender to prevent spills. This ensures safety. I blended carefully, and it was smooth.

Add cream off the heat to prevent curdling. This keeps it creamy. I stirred in last, and it was great.

Adjust basil to taste for a stronger herb flavor. This balances the soup. I used 1/4 cup, and it was just right.

Simmer gently to blend flavors without reducing too much. This keeps it soupy. I simmered low, and it was ideal.

Strain if you prefer a smoother texture without pulp. This refines the soup. I strained mine, and it was silky.

Variations and Substitutions

Swap tomatoes for roasted red peppers for a different flavor. Peppers add smokiness. I tried peppers, and it was delicious.

Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free version. This keeps it creamy. I used coconut milk, and it was great.

Add 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. This adds heat. I added flakes, and it was bold.

Replace basil with oregano for a more herbal taste. This changes the profile. I tried oregano, and it was savory.

Use chicken broth instead of vegetable for added protein. This makes it heartier. I used chicken broth, and it was flavorful.

Add 1/2 cup diced carrots for extra sweetness. This boosts nutrition. I added carrots, and it was a hit.

Make it vegan with plant-based cream. This keeps it rich. I tried vegan cream, and it was satisfying.

Storage and Meal Prep

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days; reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Freeze for up to 2 months, thawing in the fridge before reheating to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

Here are answers to common questions about this dish.

1. Why is my soup too thick?
   Add more broth, 1/4 cup at a time, to thin it out. I added a splash, and it was perfect.
2. Can I use canned tomatoes?
   Yes, use 28 oz diced tomatoes with juice. I used fresh, but canned worked fine.
3. How do I make it dairy-free?
   Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of cream. I tried coconut milk, and it was great.
4. Can I freeze the soup?
   Yes, freeze before adding cream; add cream after thawing. I froze mine, and it was easy.
5. How do I increase the protein?
   Add diced chicken or beans. I added chicken, and it hit 16 grams.
6. Why is my soup bitter?
   Avoid overcooking garlic and use ripe tomatoes. I cooked gently, and it was smooth.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with grilled cheese sandwiches or crusty bread for a classic combo. Pair with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Enjoy with iced tea or sparkling water for a refreshing touch. I served it with a cheese toast, and it was a perfect combo. It’s great for lunches, dinners, or starters.

Nutrition Info for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Per serving (1 cup, 4 servings):

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 8g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
  Source: USDA Food Database (2025). Values are approximate.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe is a comforting, high-protein dish with rich, savory flavors. Its quick prep makes it perfect for cozy meals or starters. How do you like to customize your soup? Let us know in the comments!