Nothing beats a bowl of creamy Tomato Basil Soup made from roasted fresh tomatoes. It’s velvety, rich, and full of comforting flavor that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl.
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Why You’ll Love This Tomato Basil Soup
This homemade tomato basil soup captures the deep sweetness of roasted tomatoes and the earthy aroma of fresh basil. The texture is silky smooth, and the cream adds just enough richness without feeling heavy. Each spoonful tastes garden-fresh yet comforting, perfect for any season. You’ll also love that it’s simple to make, wholesome, and uses ingredients you likely already have. It pairs beautifully with grilled cheese, crispy croutons, or a drizzle of cream for a cozy lunch or dinner that feels restaurant-worthy yet completely home-cooked.
Key Ingredients & Their Purpose
Fresh Tomatoes
Ripe tomatoes are the heart of this soup. Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes work best because they’re naturally sweet and flavorful. When roasted, they caramelize beautifully, giving the soup a deep, rich taste and vibrant color.
Basil
Fresh basil gives this soup its signature aroma. It balances the acidity of the tomatoes and brings a refreshing herbal note that lifts every bite.
Onion & Garlic
These two add depth and sweetness. Roasting the onion with the tomatoes softens its flavor, while sautéed garlic adds warmth and aroma that makes the soup irresistible.
Chicken Broth & Cream
The broth provides a light, savory backbone that ties everything together. A touch of cream gives it that smooth, velvety finish and softens the acidity of the tomatoes without overpowering their freshness.
Optional Baking Soda
A tiny pinch of baking soda reduces acidity and enhances natural tomato sweetness. It’s an old trick that keeps the flavor balanced and smooth.
How to Make Tomato Basil Soup
Roast the Tomatoes and Onion
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place halved tomatoes and onion wedges on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast for 45 to 60 minutes until soft and caramelized. This step adds rich, smoky sweetness that defines the soup’s flavor.
Sauté the Garlic
Next, melt butter in a stainless steel or enameled Dutch oven over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. This adds the perfect aromatic base before blending.
Combine and Blend
Transfer the roasted tomatoes and onions, along with their juices, into the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and add the chopped basil. Use an immersion blender (or a regular blender in batches) to blend everything until smooth and creamy.
Simmer and Finish
Stir in the thyme and cream. Let the soup simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes to deepen the flavor. Before serving, remove the thyme sprig and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a pinch of baking soda. The result is a silky, balanced soup with layers of roasted goodness.
Expert Tips for the Best Flavor
Always use a stainless steel or enameled pot to avoid any metallic aftertaste. Taste the soup before serving and adjust salt or sweetness as needed. If your tomatoes are extra tart, add a small pinch of sugar. Basil is essential, so don’t skip it. Despite the cream, this soup freezes well because of the small amount used. For busy nights, try preparing a big batch and freezing portions for later.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your tomato basil soup with golden grilled cheese sandwiches or crispy croutons. A drizzle of cream or olive oil adds elegance, while shaved parmesan offers a salty bite. Garnish with a fresh basil leaf or a swirl of cream before serving for that café-style finish. This soup also pairs wonderfully with a simple salad or crusty bread.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring often, until smooth. If it thickens, add a splash of broth or cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s in tomato basil soup?V
Tomatoes, onions, garlic, basil, chicken broth, and a touch of cream for smoothness.
What are the benefits of eating tomato basil soup?
It’s rich in vitamins A and C, supports immunity, and offers antioxidants from tomatoes and basil.
What to make with tomato basil soup?
Pair it with grilled cheese, salads, or pasta dishes. You can also serve it with Classic French Onion Soup Recipe for a comforting soup night.
What is the taste of tomato basil soup?
It’s savory, slightly sweet, and creamy with a bright hint of basil. The roasted tomatoes give it depth and warmth.
Other Recipes You May Enjoy
- Creamy Vegetable Soup with Cheddar
- Healthy Zucchini Soup
- Leek and Potato Soup for Cozy Nights
- Easy Crockpot Potato Soup
- Classic Tomato Soup
Conclusion
Homemade Tomato Basil Soup brings together the sweetness of roasted tomatoes and the freshness of basil for a smooth, cozy bowl that tastes like comfort. Simple ingredients, rich flavor, and creamy texture make it a go-to for any night of the week. Try it once, and you’ll never reach for canned soup again. For more inspiration, visit Ellie’s Pinterest page for delicious soup ideas.
Tomato Basil Soup
Equipment
- Baking sheet For roasting tomatoes and onions
- Dutch oven or large pot For simmering the soup
- Immersion blender or regular blender To puree the soup
Ingredients
- 3 lbs fresh tomatoes, halved or quartered
- 1 sweet onion, cut into thick wedges
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon salted butter
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 sprig fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ⅛ teaspoon baking soda (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange tomatoes and onion cut-side up, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast until soft and caramelized, about 45–60 minutes.
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add roasted tomatoes, onions, and juices to the pot. Stir in chicken broth and basil. Blend until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender in batches.
- Stir in thyme and heavy cream. Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove thyme before serving. Adjust seasoning and add baking soda if needed to reduce acidity.
