There’s something undeniably cozy about a warm bowl of homemade soup, and nothing quite matches the comfort of a creamy tomato basil soup. This recipe, affectionately known as the “Dump and Go Creamy Tomato Basil Soup,” is a symphony of flavors that comes together effortlessly, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend lunch.
Originating from traditional Italian cuisine, tomato soup has evolved over centuries. However, this particular recipe simplifies the process, allowing you to throw everything into your slow cooker or pot with minimum effort while still resulting in a dish that feels luxurious and restaurant-worthy. The vibrant flavors of tomato and aromatic basil marry beautifully, creating a soup that’s hearty enough to stand alone, or pair perfectly with a crusty grilled cheese sandwich. Let me take you through the easy steps to create this bowl of comfort.
Key Ingredients Summary
To make this soup sing, we rely on a few key ingredients:
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Canned Diced Tomatoes: The base of our soup provides a rich, tomatoey flavor. Feel free to substitute with fresh tomatoes; roasting them before blending can enhance the flavor even more.
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Fresh Basil: It’s essential for that classic tomato basil flavor. If fresh basil isn’t available, a tablespoon of dried basil can work in a pinch.
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Onion and Garlic: These aromatics add depth and sweetness to the soup. I often recommend sautéing them initially to build a flavor foundation.
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Vegetables: Carrots and celery add nutrition and flavor. If you're looking to sneak in some extra nutrients, you might consider adding a handful of spinach or kale.
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Cream: For that luscious, creamy texture. You can use heavy cream, half-and-half, or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream if desired.
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Vegetable Broth: This will help to thin the soup to your preferred consistency, while also contributing flavor.
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Seasonings: A pinch of salt, pepper, and perhaps a dash of oregano can elevate the taste even further.
Recipe Card
Now, let’s dive into how to make this delectable soup!
Dump and Go Creamy Tomato Basil Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 4 hours (slow cooker) / 30 mins (stovetop)
- Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves (or 1 tablespoon dried basil)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon oregano (optional)
Directions
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In a large pot or your favorite slow cooker, combine the canned diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
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Pour in the vegetable broth and stir in the basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
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If you are using the stovetop method, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 30 minutes until the vegetables are tender. For slow cooker enthusiasts, cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
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After cooking, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches. If you’re blending in batches, be sure to let the soup cool a bit to avoid splatter.
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Stir in the heavy cream and heat through for an additional 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
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Serve hot with fresh basil on top and a drizzle of cream. Enjoy with crusty bread or a classic grilled cheese sandwich!
Tips for Success
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Sauté the Aromatics: If you have a little extra time, try sautéing the onions and garlic in a pot before adding them to the slow cooker. This simple step builds a richer flavor base (I love using my trusty Ninja® 12-in-1 PossibleCooker™ PLUS for this purpose a lot—it’s versatile and makes cleanup a breeze).
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Mid-Cooking Adjustments: If the soup is a little too thick for your liking, simply add more broth to thin it out. Conversely, let it simmer uncovered to thicken.
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Enhance Flavor: You can elevate the flavor even more by adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes are too acidic.
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Serving Suggestions: This soup pairs beautifully with a toasted sourdough bread or use a Caraway Double Burner Griddle to make the ultimate grilled cheese sandwich. Trust me, that combination is a winner!
Common FAQs
Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes beautifully. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It’s ideal for meal prep!
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes! With fresh vegetables and a good amount of basil, this soup is nutrient-dense. You can make it even healthier by adding more vegetables and reducing the cream.
What can I add to this soup?
Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables or even a protein like shredded chicken or beans for an added boost.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Definitely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or any plant-based milk, and you still end up with a rich and satisfying soup.
There you have it! This Satisfying Dump and Go Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is quick to prepare and full of flavor. It’s the kind of dish that warms the soul, perfect for breezy evenings or rainy afternoons. Grab your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and let the wonderful aroma of this incredible soup fill your kitchen. Enjoy!
