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Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with Shredded Cheese is the perfect comforting dish to warm you up on a chilly evening. This easily made soup is rich, vibrant, and bursting with flavor. The combination of canned tomatoes, fresh basil, and a generous splash of heavy cream creates a luscious consistency that’s topped off with melty shredded cheese. It’s a delightful weeknight meal that’s simple enough for any home cook to whip up.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy tomato basil soup is not just delicious; it’s also quick and satisfying. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Comforting Flavor: The rich tomato base is enhanced by fresh basil and cream.
- Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes!
- Versatile: Perfect as a starter or a light main dish.
- Freezes Well: Make a big batch and save some for later.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Extra basil leaves for garnish
How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir in the sugar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.
- Return the pot to low heat, then stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
- Serve hot, topped with shredded mozzarella cheese and extra basil leaves for garnish.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use good quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of heavy cream based on your preference for richness.
- For added depth, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving.
Easy Variations
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions.
- Substitute half of the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Add cooked pasta or rice for a heartier meal.
What to Serve With It
- A classic grilled cheese sandwich for dipping.
- Crusty bread or breadsticks for a satisfying crunch.
- A fresh green salad for a light side.
Storage and Reheating
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Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield/Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Extra basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir in the sugar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.
- Return the pot to low heat, then stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
- Serve hot, topped with shredded mozzarella cheese and extra basil leaves for garnish.
Notes: Adjust seasoning to taste. Enjoy with your favorite bread for dipping!




















