Name: Tomato Basil Soup with Croutons
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 4 slices of bread, cubed; 2 tablespoons butter (for croutons); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for croutons); Salt to taste (for croutons)

Tomato Basil Soup with Croutons is a timeless comfort dish that blends the rich, tangy flavor of ripe tomatoes with the freshness of basil. This velvety soup is smooth, flavorful, and topped with crunchy, golden croutons for added texture. Perfect for chilly evenings or light lunches, this recipe offers both simplicity and sophistication in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Tomato Basil Soup is both hearty and healthy, making it a perfect addition to your weekly meal plan. Whether you serve it as a starter or a main dish, it delivers rich flavors without being heavy. The croutons add the perfect crunch, offering a delightful contrast to the creamy soup. It’s an easy one-pot recipe that requires minimal ingredients and can be ready in under an hour. Plus, it’s ideal for vegetarians and can be adapted for various dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Olive oil
Onion
Garlic
Canned whole tomatoes (or fresh ripe tomatoes)
Vegetable broth
Fresh basil leaves
Sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Salt
Black pepper
Heavy cream or coconut milk (optional for creaminess)
Bread cubes (for croutons)
Butter or olive oil (for toasting croutons)

Directions

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent.
Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Pour in the canned tomatoes (with their juices) and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes.
Add fresh basil leaves, salt, pepper, and sugar if needed.
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or transfer it to a blender in batches.
Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk if desired for a creamier texture. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
For the croutons, toss bread cubes with melted butter or olive oil and toast in a skillet or bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until golden and crispy.
Serve the soup hot, topped with freshly made croutons and extra basil if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Vegan Version: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, and use oil instead of butter for croutons.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Roasted Tomato Version: Roast fresh tomatoes and garlic in the oven before blending for a deeper, smoky flavor.
Cheesy Twist: Top with grated Parmesan or swirl in some cheese for added richness.
Herb Infusion: Mix in oregano or thyme for a more herbaceous profile.

Storage/Reheating

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.
Croutons should be stored separately in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness.

FAQs

How do I make the soup smoother?

Use an immersion blender or a high-powered blender to puree the soup until completely smooth.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh ripe tomatoes. Blanch, peel, and chop them before adding to the soup for best results.

What type of bread works best for croutons?

Day-old crusty bread like sourdough or French bread works best for croutons, as it crisps up nicely without becoming soggy.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The soup itself is naturally gluten-free. Use gluten-free bread for croutons to make the entire dish gluten-free.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, it stores well and even tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Do I have to add cream?

No, the soup is delicious even without cream. It’s entirely optional and can be omitted or substituted.

What can I serve with tomato basil soup?

It pairs well with grilled cheese, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

How can I reduce the acidity of the tomatoes?

Adding a small amount of sugar balances the acidity without affecting the flavor too much.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, freeze the soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing the croutons.

How long do the croutons stay crispy?

Croutons stay crispy for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

Conclusion

Tomato Basil Soup with Croutons is a classic recipe that brings warmth, comfort, and satisfaction to your table. It’s easy to make, customizable to suit your taste, and perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. With its smooth texture and bold flavors, this soup is bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.