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A delicious plate of Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner ideas
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 1 Tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 14.5 ounce cans diced tomatoes, with the juice
  • 2 carrots, finely diced (about 1 cup)
  • 1 small onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
  • 3 ribs celery, finely diced (about 1 cup)
  • 2 Tablespoons tomato paste
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil leaves
  • ½ cup butter
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1½ cups half and half (or whole milk)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

Method
 

  1. Add olive oil to a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add carrots, onions, and celery. Sauté for a few minutes until they begin to soften, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, oregano, and dried basil. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and cook until the vegetables are tender, around 20 minutes.
  3. Use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. If using a regular blender, work in batches and be cautious as hot liquid can expand.
  4. In a separate pot, melt butter over medium-low heat. Stir in flour, whisking constantly for about 10 minutes until golden brown, forming a roux that will thicken the soup.
  5. Gradually add a ladle of soup to the roux, forming a thick paste. Continue adding soup until smooth. Transfer the roux mixture back to the soup pot and stir to combine.
  6. Stir in parmesan cheese, half and half, salt, pepper, and fresh basil. Adjust seasoning with additional oregano and basil if desired. Cook until warmed through, ensuring the cheese melts completely for a smooth finish.

Notes

  • Adjust the thickness by adding more broth if needed.