Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: A Slow-Simmered Velvet Classic

Few soups can rival the cozy charm and universal appeal of a classic tomato basil soup. This creamy rendition is slow-cooked to perfection, allowing every ingredient—from sweet tomatoes to fragrant basil—to meld into a velvety, heartwarming bowl of bliss. With a rich texture and bold yet balanced flavor, this soup is the ultimate comfort companion, especially when served alongside a crisp, gooey grilled cheese sandwich or a slice of crusty artisan bread.

Tomato basil soup is a staple across many kitchens and cuisines, thanks to its simplicity, affordability, and depth of flavor. Its roots stretch back to Mediterranean and Italian traditions where ripe tomatoes and fresh herbs were the stars of countless family meals. This crockpot version honors that heritage while enhancing convenience and richness. By using canned whole tomatoes and slow cooking, we draw out a gentle sweetness that’s perfectly balanced by garlic, oregano, and a touch of cream.

Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a cozy dinner starter, or a soul-soothing main course, this creamy tomato basil soup delivers every time.

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Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Whole peeled tomatoes (canned)	2 cans (28 oz each)
Onion (chopped)	1 medium
Garlic (minced)	3 cloves
Vegetable broth	4 cups
Dried oregano	1 teaspoon
Sugar (optional)	1 teaspoon
Heavy cream or coconut cream	1 cup
Fresh basil leaves (chopped)	¼ cup
Salt and pepper	To taste

Ingredient Notes:

• Choose San Marzano tomatoes for a naturally sweeter and less acidic base.
• If going vegan, use coconut cream—it adds luscious texture without altering the flavor profile too much.
• A small amount of sugar helps mellow the tomatoes’ acidity, especially if using more acidic canned varieties.

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Equipment Needed

• Crockpot / Slow Cooker: Provides long, gentle simmering that enhances the soup’s natural sweetness and richness.
• Immersion Blender or Stand Blender: Essential for creating a silky-smooth texture.
• Measuring cups/spoons: For accurate proportions of broth, cream, and seasoning.
• Chef’s knife & cutting board: Needed to prep fresh onion, garlic, and basil.

An immersion blender is a convenient tool here—it allows for blending the soup right in the crockpot without mess.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by roughly chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Open the canned tomatoes and pour them—juices and all—into the crockpot.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, vegetable broth, oregano, and sugar (if using). Season with salt and pepper, then give everything a good stir to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The slow cooking process will break down the tomatoes and mellow the garlic and onion, resulting in a deeply flavorful base.
4. Once the cooking time is complete, remove the lid and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer it to a stand blender in batches—be careful with the hot liquid and ensure your blender lid is vented.
5. After blending, stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream and the freshly chopped basil. Set the crockpot to low for another 15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra basil or a swirl of cream if desired.

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Tips and Variations

Cooking Tips:

• Blend the soup in batches if using a stand blender and fill only halfway to avoid overflow.
• For a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup or use a potato masher for a rustic finish.
• Add cream gradually and stir well to avoid curdling.

Flavor Variations:

• Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• For a smoky twist, stir in a small amount of smoked paprika or use fire-roasted canned tomatoes.
• Toss in a parmesan rind during cooking for extra umami.

Dietary Alternatives:

• Vegan/Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and a vegan broth. Nutritional yeast can be added for a cheesy flavor.
• Low-Carb: This soup is naturally low-carb and can be enjoyed as-is for keto-friendly diets.
• Protein Boost: Add cooked white beans before blending for added creaminess and nutrition.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve creamy tomato basil soup in elegant wide bowls with a sprig of fresh basil on top. A swirl of cream or a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper adds visual appeal and flavor contrast.

Classic pairings include a grilled cheese sandwich, preferably with sharp cheddar or gouda, or a slice of crusty baguette slathered in herb butter. You could also serve it with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing counterpoint to the soup’s richness.

For a more decadent experience, top with homemade croutons or shredded mozzarella and broil for a melted finish.

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Pairings

This soup’s creamy texture and herbaceous depth are best complemented by beverages that cleanse the palate and provide a bright, refreshing note:

• White wines like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc offer crisp acidity to cut through the creaminess.
• For a bold choice, light-bodied red wines like Chianti or Grenache pair well with tomato-based dishes.
• A cold kombucha or sparkling water with lime works wonderfully as a non-alcoholic pairing.
• For an extra cozy meal, try a warm mug of herbal tea with basil or mint.

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Storage and Reheating

Cool the soup completely before storing in airtight containers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

To freeze, pour into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space at the top for expansion. It freezes well for up to 3 months. Consider adding cream after reheating to preserve texture, although this version holds up well even when frozen with cream.

Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens too much.

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Nutritional Information

Per serving (approx. 1½ cups):

• Calories: 280
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 700mg

Allergens: Contains dairy (if using cream); coconut (if using coconut cream).

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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Conclusion

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is one of those timeless dishes that’s simple in preparation but big in flavor. Its smooth, rich texture and balance of sweet, tangy, and herbaceous notes make it a standout soup for any season. Whether you enjoy it solo, with toast, or as part of a meal, it’s sure to warm your heart and kitchen alike.

If you whip up a batch, let us know how it turned out! Share your creative toppings or side pairings in the comments, or post a photo and tag us—because great soup is meant to be shared.

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