The Ultimate Homemade Tomato Basil Soup: Easy, Creamy & Comforting (Stovetop, Instant Pot, Slow Cooker)
Indulge in the nostalgic comfort of a classic homemade Tomato Basil Soup. This recipe is incredibly easy to make from scratch, offering a rich, savory flavor that far surpasses any canned variety. Whether you prefer it silky smooth or with a hint of texture, and with or without a luxurious swirl of cream and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this versatile soup can be adapted to your taste. We’ve included simple instructions for your Instant Pot, slow cooker, and stovetop, ensuring a delicious meal no matter your preferred cooking method.
Who doesn’t cherish the memory of a warm bowl of tomato soup, especially when paired with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich? Perhaps you were a fan of sprinkling yours with crispy goldfish crackers, drizzling it with a generous swirl of heavy cream, or maybe a hefty sprinkle of savory Parmesan cheese. However you enjoyed it, tomato soup holds a special place in many hearts as the ultimate comfort food.
I vividly recall my mom serving this classic dish to my younger brother and me when we were kids. It was her go-to for a fast, healthy, and satisfying lunch that always hit the spot. And yes, it was almost always accompanied by our favorite grilled cheese! While those canned versions served their purpose, nothing quite compares to the fresh, vibrant flavors of homemade Tomato Basil Soup.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Tomato Basil Soup
Moving from a childhood favorite to a perfected adult recipe, this homemade tomato basil soup offers a multitude of reasons to make it a staple in your kitchen:
- Effortlessly Easy: With minimal prep and straightforward steps, this soup comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Incredibly Flavorful: Fresh basil and quality tomatoes combine with aromatic vegetables to create a depth of flavor that’s simply unmatched by store-bought options.
- Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with nutrient-rich tomatoes and vegetables, it’s a dish you can feel good about serving to your family.
- Comfort in a Bowl: There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of this soup to chase away the chill on a cold day or simply soothe your soul.
- Highly Customizable: Easily adjust the consistency, add your favorite herbs, or make it creamy with a splash of dairy (or dairy-free alternatives!).
- Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you’re a fan of the traditional stovetop, the speed of an Instant Pot, or the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe has you covered.
- Perfect Pairing: It’s the quintessential partner for a crispy, cheesy grilled cheese sandwich, but also versatile enough to complement many other dishes.
Simple & Flavorful Ingredients
The beauty of this Tomato Basil Soup lies in its straightforward ingredients. You’ll find everything you need readily available, likely already in your pantry! This is a must for me – I appreciate recipes that don’t require a special trip to the grocery store.
- Canned Tomatoes: The star of the show! Feel free to use any variety you prefer – whole, diced, crushed, or even fire-roasted. Each will contribute a slightly different nuance to the soup, but all will result in a delicious base. Using a combination of a larger can (28 oz) and a smaller can (14.5 oz) adds more tomato richness and helps build body.
- Tomato Paste: This concentrated tomato goodness is crucial for adding a deep, intense tomato flavor that truly elevates the soup beyond a simple canned soup. Don’t skip it!
- Aromatic Vegetables: A classic mirepoix of onion, celery, and carrots forms the flavor foundation. Sautéing these until tender releases their natural sweetness and creates a rich aromatic base for the soup.
- Garlic: I’m a big fan of garlic and tend to use a generous amount (3-6 cloves) for maximum flavor. However, you can easily adjust this down to just a few cloves if you prefer a milder garlic presence.
- Broth: I typically opt for vegetable broth to keep this dish vegetarian-friendly, but feel free to substitute with chicken broth if that’s what you have on hand or prefer. Choose a good quality broth for the best flavor.
- Herbs: Both basil and oregano are essential for the classic “tomato basil” profile. While fresh herbs are always lovely, I find dried herbs work exceptionally well in this cooked soup, releasing their flavors beautifully during simmering.
- Honey: To balance the natural acidity of the tomatoes, a touch of sweetness is key. I initially tried sweet potato, but found it shifted the soup’s character too much towards a vegetable medley. Thanks to my dad’s brilliant suggestion, a couple of teaspoons of honey worked perfectly to tame the acidity without adding a distinct “sweet” flavor, simply enhancing the tomato’s natural sweetness. You can also use a pinch of sugar or skip it entirely if your tomatoes are naturally sweet enough.
- Optional Luxurious Add-ins: For an extra indulgent and creamy dish, consider stirring in heavy cream and/or grated Parmesan cheese after the soup has finished cooking and has been pureed. My kids absolutely adore this creamy, cheesy version!
How to Make Homemade Tomato Basil Soup (Step-by-Step)
Making this flavorful soup is incredibly simple, no matter your chosen cooking method. Here’s a general overview of the process:
- Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by sautéing your diced onions, celery, and carrots in butter or oil until the onions become translucent and the vegetables start to soften. This step builds the foundational flavor of your soup. Stir in the minced garlic for just one minute more until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Combine & Cook: Add the remaining ingredients – canned tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, honey, dried basil, and dried oregano – to your pot.
- For the Instant Pot: Seal the lid and vent. Cook on High Pressure for 5 minutes, then allow a 10-minute natural pressure release before manually releasing any remaining pressure. Remove the lid carefully.
- For the Stovetop: Cover the pot and let the soup simmer gently for 20-30 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.
- For the Slow Cooker: After sautéing the vegetables (this step is optional but highly recommended for flavor development), transfer them to your slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cover and cook on HIGH for 4 hours or on LOW for 7-8 hours.
- Puree to Perfection: Once cooked, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the soup to your desired consistency. If you prefer an extra smooth soup, carefully transfer it in batches to a high-powered blender (be very cautious with hot liquids and only fill halfway).
- Optional Creamy Finish: If you’re adding heavy cream and/or Parmesan cheese, stir them in after pureeing the soup, ensuring they are well incorporated.
Tips for the Best Tomato Basil Soup
Achieving a truly outstanding homemade tomato basil soup is easy with these simple tips:
- Don’t Rush the Sauté: Allowing your onions, carrots, and celery to properly soften and caramelize slightly before adding liquids is crucial. This step extracts their natural sugars and creates a deeper, richer flavor base for your soup.
- Choose Quality Tomatoes: Since tomatoes are the primary ingredient, using good quality canned tomatoes (whether whole, diced, or crushed) will make a noticeable difference. San Marzano tomatoes are often praised for their rich flavor.
- Balance Acidity: The honey helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Taste your soup after pureeing and adjust. If it’s still too tart, add another teaspoon of honey or a pinch of sugar. If it’s too sweet, a tiny splash of lemon juice or vinegar can brighten it.
- Puree to Your Preference: An immersion blender offers convenience and can leave a slightly rustic texture, which I personally enjoy. For a velvety smooth, restaurant-quality bisque, a high-speed blender is your best friend. Just remember to blend in batches and vent the lid when blending hot liquids.
- Season Generously: Don’t forget to season with salt and freshly ground black pepper throughout the cooking process. Taste and adjust before serving – a little extra seasoning can bring all the flavors to life.
- Fresh Basil for Garnish: While dried basil is used in the cooking, a sprinkle of fresh chopped basil leaves as a garnish right before serving adds a beautiful aroma and pop of fresh flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Reheating this soup is simple and flexible. For individual servings, the microwave works great. For larger quantities, gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can even use your slow cooker on a “warm” setting if you’re serving a crowd or want to keep it hot for an extended period.
Absolutely! Homemade tomato basil soup is packed with health benefits. Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, especially when cooked. They also provide fiber, potassium, and vitamins A, C, and K, as well as several other essential vitamins and minerals. To make it even healthier, use vegetable broth, minimize added cream, and load up on the fresh vegetables.
Understanding the nuances can help you choose or create your perfect soup:
Regular tomato soup: This is generally a straightforward soup made primarily from tomatoes, broth, and seasonings, typically without any dairy products, resulting in a lighter body.
Cream of tomato soup: As the name suggests, this version includes dairy – be it cream, half-and-half, or milk – to achieve a richer, creamier texture and flavor.
Bisque: Traditionally a French term for a creamy, thick soup made from seafood broth (like lobster bisque). However, over the years, “bisque” has evolved to commonly refer to any rich, creamy soup, often vegetable-based (like tomato bisque), regardless of its seafood origins. It typically implies a smoother, more refined texture than a simple “cream of” soup.
YES! This soup freezes beautifully. Once the soup has cooled completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave as desired.
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegetarian when using vegetable broth. To make it vegan or dairy-free, simply ensure you use oil (like olive oil) instead of butter to sauté the vegetables. If you desire a creamy texture, use a dairy-free milk alternative such as full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. Avoid Parmesan cheese or use a vegan Parmesan substitute.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Tomato Basil Soup
The versatility of tomato basil soup means there are endless options for enjoying it, whether you prefer it plain or with delicious accompaniments. Here are some fantastic stir-in or topping ideas to elevate your bowl:
- Cheeses: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, shredded cheddar, or a dollop of creamy goat cheese.
- Crunchy Toppings: Goldfish crackers, oyster crackers, homemade croutons, or even crushed tortilla chips.
- Creamy Swirls: A luxurious drizzle of heavy cream, a dollop of sour cream, or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Herbs & Spices: A swirl of vibrant pesto, a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick, or extra fresh basil leaves.
- Other Flavor Boosts: Chopped sun-dried tomatoes, a few drops of balsamic glaze, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami depth.
And for what to serve alongside your comforting bowl of soup, the possibilities are equally delightful:
- Grilled Cheese: The absolute classic! A warm, gooey grilled cheese sandwich is the perfect dipping companion.
- Breads: Warm garlic bread, crusty artisan bread, or soft dinner rolls are excellent for soaking up every last drop.
- Salads: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast. Check out some of my other salad recipes for inspiration.
- Pasta: For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a light pasta dish like Spaghetti Aglio e Olio.
- Pizza: A slice of Homemade Cheese Pizza makes a fun and comforting pairing.
- Sandwiches: Beyond grilled cheese, consider other simple sandwiches like a turkey club or a ham and cheese.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
This soup is perfect for meal prep or saving leftovers:
- Refrigerator: Store any cooled leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Freezer: For longer storage, cool the soup completely. Transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note: If you plan to add cream, it’s often best to add it after thawing and reheating, as dairy can sometimes separate when frozen and reheated.
More Great Soup Recipes to Warm Your Soul!
- Creamy Turkey and Dumpling Soup
- Instant Pot Beef and Barley Soup
- Easy Shrimp Ramen Soup
- Lasagna Soup
HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to my newsletter and follow along on Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram for all my latest updates!
Tomato Basil Soup
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter or oil of choice
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3-6 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (945 ml) vegetable broth
- 1 (28 oz)(793 g) can tomatoes (use any kind you have)
- 1 (14.5 oz) (411 g) can diced tomatoes (use any kind you have)
- 1 (6 oz) (170 g) can tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
STOVETOP:
- In a large pot, melt butter or oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion, carrot, and celery just until the onion starts to soften. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the remaining ingredients, cover, and reduce to a gentle simmer for 25-30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Remove from heat and blend with an immersion blender until your desired consistency is reached. For a super smooth soup, carefully transfer to a high-powered blender in batches.
INSTANT POT:
- Set the Instant Pot to the sauté function. Melt butter or oil in the Instant Pot. Sauté the onion, carrot, and celery just until the onion starts to soften. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the remaining ingredients, place the lid on the Instant Pot, and set it to the locking position. Set the valve to sealing. Cook on HIGH pressure for 5 minutes. Allow a 10-minute natural pressure release before carefully releasing any remaining pressure.
- Blend with an immersion blender or a high-powered blender to your preferred consistency.
SLOW COOKER:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter or oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion, carrot, and celery just until the onion starts to soften. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a 6-quart slow cooker. Stir in the remaining ingredients, cover, and cook on HIGH for 4 hours or on LOW for 7-8 hours.
- Blend with an immersion blender or a high-powered blender to your preferred consistency before serving.
Notes
- Using an immersion blender will often result in a soup with a slightly rustic texture. This is what I used to achieve the soup consistency you see in these pictures. If you prefer a completely silky-smooth tomato soup, use a high-powered blender for pureeing. Be extremely careful when blending hot liquids.
- You can omit the honey if you prefer, or if your tomatoes are naturally very sweet. I find it helps beautifully to cut through the acidity of canned tomatoes.
- Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- FREEZER FRIENDLY: Ensure the soup is cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw thoroughly in the refrigerator and reheat as desired. If adding cream, it’s best to do so upon reheating.
- NUTRITION INFO: Nutrition calculations are based on using butter in the recipe.
- Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, goldfish crackers, oyster crackers, croutons, sour cream, pesto, or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Grilled cheese (the ultimate pairing!), garlic bread, crusty bread, a simple side salad (or explore some of my other salad recipes), Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, or a slice of Homemade Cheese Pizza, just to name a few. There truly are so many options to complete your meal.