Easy & Comforting Tomato Basil Soup

There are few things as universally comforting as a warm bowl of creamy tomato soup. This recipe is our go-to for a reason: it’s incredibly simple, uses pantry staples, and delivers a rich, velvety flavor that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s a perfect quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch. Whether you’re a purist who loves it as is, or you enjoy a generous sprinkle of sharp Parmesan cheese on top, this dish is wonderfully versatile and always satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus more for garnish
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, broth, and the optional sugar. Stir everything together, bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Carefully use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and blend until smooth (be sure to let it cool slightly and vent the lid to avoid any accidents).
4. Return the soup to the pot over low heat. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped fresh basil. Heat gently for a few more minutes, but do not let it boil.
5. Taste the soup and season generously with salt and pepper until the flavors are just right.
6. Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with a few extra basil leaves and serve immediately, with a side of crusty bread or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you desire.

Nutrition Information

Nutritional values are approximate and based on a single serving without optional cheese.