If you are looking for the best recipe for tomato soup that is still easy to make, well then, you’ve found it. Tomato soup is the crowning glory of the tomato. Everything about it accentuates that pure tomato flavor. It is straight comfort food. It brings back favorite childhood memories, playing on a swing set, unaware of the inconveniences and challenges of life, and loving every minute of it. With a grilled cheese in one hand, and a spoon in the other, everything is right in the world once again. Isn’t that what good food made with love is supposed to do?

Easy Tomato Basil Soup is thick, creamy, and full of tomato flavor. This family-favorite soup is delicious on its own, and even better paired with a classic grilled cheese.

a bowl of tomato basil soup with fresh basil on top and fresh garlic and tomatoes next to the bowl

Canned vs. Fresh Tomatoes

Canned tomatoes are a great option for making a quick and easy tomato soup. The tomatoes are preserved at fresh peakness so that you can enjoy them all year long. We prefer using a fire-roasted tomato for extra flavor.

Fresh tomatoes always have a great flavor, but do require more work. To fire-roast tomatoes, you can either use an outdoor grill or the oven. Whichever you decide, preheat to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. To prep your tomatoes, you will need to wash, cut off the stem end, and then cut tomatoes in half lengthwise. Place them cut side down into a grill basket for outdoor grill or on a baking sheet for the oven and drizzle with olive oil. Roast in your preheat grill/oven until charred. The grill will go fast, so keep a close eye on it. In the oven, it should take approximately 30-40 minutes to char. Allow them to cool before peeling and continuing with the recipe. 

Dairy Free Substitutes

If you are looking for dairy free options, you are in luck! Plant-based products have come a long way, and you can now find dairy free ‘cream’ in specialty stores, typically right next to the standard dairy cream. If you can’t find any, many grocery stores have their own vegetarian/vegan section where they keep everything, or you may need to visit a natural food store.

a saucepan filled with tomato basil soup and a ladle hovering over, filled with soup

Storage and Reheating Instructions: 

Tomato basil soup is as accommodating in storage as it is in taste. If you have leftovers or wish to prepare in bulk:

  • Storing: Ensure you store the soup in an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 5 days.
  • Reheating: Gently reheat the soup on the stovetop using medium-low heat until it’s just the right warmth.
  • Freezing: Let the soup cool down thoroughly before sealing it in resealable plastic freezer bags. Lay these bags flat in your freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, either thaw in the fridge overnight or use the quick-thaw method by rinsing the outer bag with warm water.

More Delicious Soup Recipes

Watch the video below where Rachel will walk you through every step of this recipe. Sometimes it helps to have a visual, and we’ve always got you covered with our cooking show. You can find the complete collection of recipes on YouTube, Facebook Watch, or our Facebook Page, or right here on our website with their corresponding recipes.