Looking for a comforting dish that warms your heart? My Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Soup packs a punch with simple, fresh ingredients. With just a few key items, you can create a creamy, flavorful soup right in your slow cooker. Whether you enjoy it on chilly days or as a main dish, this recipe has something for everyone. Let’s dive into making this delicious comfort food!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients
– 2 cans (28 ounces each) of whole peeled tomatoes
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
The base of this soup is simple yet full of flavor. Whole peeled tomatoes give a rich taste. Using fresh onion and garlic enhances the soup’s depth. Vegetable broth adds a savory note, while dried basil offers that classic Italian flavor. A touch of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes, making each bite delightful.
Optional Ingredients
– 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
– Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
– Croutons or slices of toasted bread for serving
Adding cream makes the soup rich and creamy. If you prefer a dairy-free option, coconut cream works perfectly. Season to taste with sea salt and black pepper for a well-rounded flavor. Fresh basil leaves not only look beautiful but also add a burst of freshness. Pair your soup with croutons or toasted bread for the perfect dipping experience. For the full recipe, visit the provided link.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
To start, gather your ingredients for the slow cooker tomato basil soup. You will need:
– 2 cans (28 ounces each) of whole peeled tomatoes
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
– Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
– Croutons or slices of toasted bread, for serving
Now, combine all the ingredients in your slow cooker. Pour in the tomatoes, juice and all. Add the onion, garlic, vegetable broth, dried basil, and sugar. Mix these well.
Season the mixture generously. Use sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step is key for great flavor. Taste as you go. Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
Cooking Process
Next, it’s time to set the slow cooker. You can choose between low or high heat. If you set it on low, let it cook for 6-8 hours. On high heat, it will take about 3-4 hours. This slow cooking helps develop the flavors.
While it cooks, the smell will fill your kitchen. You will love how it draws everyone in!
Finalizing the Recipe
Once the cooking time is up, it’s time to puree the soup. If you have an immersion blender, use it directly in the slow cooker. Blend until the soup is smooth and creamy.
If you’re using a regular blender, transfer the soup in batches. Blend until it reaches a velvety texture.
After blending, stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream. This adds a rich taste. Mix well and let it warm on low heat for another 10-15 minutes.
Now, taste the soup again. Adjust the seasoning if needed. You might want more salt, pepper, or sugar to get the taste just right.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves. Add croutons or toasted bread on the side for a perfect meal. Enjoy this creamy, flavorful comfort dish! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Flavor
To make your soup taste great, balance the acidity. Use a little sugar to help. It cuts the sharpness of the tomatoes. Season your soup well with salt and pepper. This brings out all the flavors. For creaminess, add heavy cream or coconut cream. This makes the soup rich and smooth.
Tools for Success
Choose a reliable slow cooker. I recommend one with a timer and multiple heat settings. This helps cook the soup just right. For blending, use an immersion blender for ease. If you don’t have one, a regular blender works too. Just be careful when transferring hot soup.
Visual Appeal
Garnishing adds charm to your dish. Toss in some fresh basil leaves on top. This gives color and boosts flavor. Serve the soup in nice bowls. Pair it with croutons or toasted bread for a full meal. Enjoy your comforting bowl of soup!
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
For a creamy texture, you can choose dairy-free options for cream. I recommend using coconut cream. It adds richness without the dairy. You can also swap the heavy cream for cashew cream. Just blend soaked cashews with water until smooth.
When it comes to herbs, feel free to explore alternative herbs and spices. If basil isn’t your favorite, try thyme or oregano. They can give the soup a new twist. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick, too.
Flavor Enhancements
You can enhance the flavor by adding vegetables or proteins. Try adding carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition. If you want protein, consider adding cooked lentils or shredded chicken. These additions make the soup heartier and more filling.
Adjusting spice levels is easy, too. If you like heat, add more black pepper or even a dash of cayenne. If you prefer a milder soup, skip the extra spices. You control the flavor profile.
Regional Twists
To give your soup an Italian-style flair, use sun-dried tomatoes or Parmesan cheese. These ingredients boost the umami flavor. Fresh mozzarella can also make a delicious topping.
For a spicy tomato basil soup variation, try adding diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers. This will give your soup a smoky, spicy kick. The combination of tomato and spice is simply delightful!
For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. Enjoy getting creative with your slow cooker tomato basil soup!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your soup fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps prevent spills and keeps the flavors in. Place the container in the fridge if you plan to eat it within a few days. Use it within 3-5 days for the best taste.
If you want to save some for later, freeze the soup. Pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space for expansion. This soup can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Tips
When it’s time to eat, reheating the soup is easy. You can use the stove or microwave. If using the stove, pour the soup into a pot. Heat it over medium heat, stirring often until warm. For the microwave, place the soup in a bowl and cover it. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between to avoid hot spots.
To keep the texture nice, avoid boiling the soup when reheating. If it seems thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water while heating. This will help restore its creamy texture.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, your soup lasts about 3-5 days. If you freeze it, expect it to stay good for about three months. After that, the taste may fade. Always check for off smells or changes in color before eating. Proper storage is key to enjoying your delicious Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Soup.
FAQs
How long to cook slow cooker tomato basil soup?
You need to cook the soup for 6-8 hours on low heat or 3-4 hours on high. This slow cooking lets all the flavors blend well. You will smell the wonderful aroma as it cooks.
Can I omit the cream for a lighter soup?
Yes, you can skip the cream if you want a lighter version. The soup will still taste great. You can add a splash of extra vegetable broth for a thinner soup.
What can I serve with tomato basil soup?
Tomato basil soup pairs well with many sides. Here are some ideas:
– Grilled cheese sandwiches
– Croutons for crunch
– Slices of toasted bread
– A fresh garden salad
Each option adds a nice touch to your meal.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this soup is gluten-free! All the ingredients are safe for those avoiding gluten. Just ensure any added bread or croutons are gluten-free too.
How can I adjust the recipe for a larger batch?
To make a larger batch, simply double the ingredients from the Full Recipe. You may need a bigger slow cooker. Adjust the cooking time slightly if necessary. Always taste and tweak to your liking.
You now have all the ingredients and steps to make a delicious slow cooker tomato basil soup. From essential flavors to optional twists, you can customize this recipe. Remember to use proper seasoning and enjoy garnishing to make it visually appealing. Storing and reheating tips will help keep your soup fresh. Overall, this soup is easy to prepare and very satisfying. Enjoy your cooking journey and the warm bowls of comfort that follow!
![- 2 cans (28 ounces each) of whole peeled tomatoes - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 2 cups vegetable broth - 1 teaspoon dried basil - 1 teaspoon granulated sugar The base of this soup is simple yet full of flavor. Whole peeled tomatoes give a rich taste. Using fresh onion and garlic enhances the soup's depth. Vegetable broth adds a savory note, while dried basil offers that classic Italian flavor. A touch of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes, making each bite delightful. - 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream - Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper - Fresh basil leaves for garnish - Croutons or slices of toasted bread for serving Adding cream makes the soup rich and creamy. If you prefer a dairy-free option, coconut cream works perfectly. Season to taste with sea salt and black pepper for a well-rounded flavor. Fresh basil leaves not only look beautiful but also add a burst of freshness. Pair your soup with croutons or toasted bread for the perfect dipping experience. For the full recipe, visit the provided link. To start, gather your ingredients for the slow cooker tomato basil soup. You will need: - 2 cans (28 ounces each) of whole peeled tomatoes - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 2 cups vegetable broth - 1 teaspoon dried basil - 1 teaspoon granulated sugar - Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste - 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream - Fresh basil leaves, for garnish - Croutons or slices of toasted bread, for serving Now, combine all the ingredients in your slow cooker. Pour in the tomatoes, juice and all. Add the onion, garlic, vegetable broth, dried basil, and sugar. Mix these well. Season the mixture generously. Use sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step is key for great flavor. Taste as you go. Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Next, it’s time to set the slow cooker. You can choose between low or high heat. If you set it on low, let it cook for 6-8 hours. On high heat, it will take about 3-4 hours. This slow cooking helps develop the flavors. While it cooks, the smell will fill your kitchen. You will love how it draws everyone in! Once the cooking time is up, it’s time to puree the soup. If you have an immersion blender, use it directly in the slow cooker. Blend until the soup is smooth and creamy. If you’re using a regular blender, transfer the soup in batches. Blend until it reaches a velvety texture. After blending, stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream. This adds a rich taste. Mix well and let it warm on low heat for another 10-15 minutes. Now, taste the soup again. Adjust the seasoning if needed. You might want more salt, pepper, or sugar to get the taste just right. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves. Add croutons or toasted bread on the side for a perfect meal. Enjoy this creamy, flavorful comfort dish! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe. To make your soup taste great, balance the acidity. Use a little sugar to help. It cuts the sharpness of the tomatoes. Season your soup well with salt and pepper. This brings out all the flavors. For creaminess, add heavy cream or coconut cream. This makes the soup rich and smooth. Choose a reliable slow cooker. I recommend one with a timer and multiple heat settings. This helps cook the soup just right. For blending, use an immersion blender for ease. If you don’t have one, a regular blender works too. Just be careful when transferring hot soup. Garnishing adds charm to your dish. Toss in some fresh basil leaves on top. This gives color and boosts flavor. Serve the soup in nice bowls. Pair it with croutons or toasted bread for a full meal. Enjoy your comforting bowl of soup! {{image_4}} For a creamy texture, you can choose dairy-free options for cream. I recommend using coconut cream. It adds richness without the dairy. You can also swap the heavy cream for cashew cream. Just blend soaked cashews with water until smooth. When it comes to herbs, feel free to explore alternative herbs and spices. If basil isn’t your favorite, try thyme or oregano. They can give the soup a new twist. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick, too. You can enhance the flavor by adding vegetables or proteins. Try adding carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition. If you want protein, consider adding cooked lentils or shredded chicken. These additions make the soup heartier and more filling. Adjusting spice levels is easy, too. If you like heat, add more black pepper or even a dash of cayenne. If you prefer a milder soup, skip the extra spices. You control the flavor profile. To give your soup an Italian-style flair, use sun-dried tomatoes or Parmesan cheese. These ingredients boost the umami flavor. Fresh mozzarella can also make a delicious topping. For a spicy tomato basil soup variation, try adding diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers. This will give your soup a smoky, spicy kick. The combination of tomato and spice is simply delightful! For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. Enjoy getting creative with your slow cooker tomato basil soup! To keep your soup fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps prevent spills and keeps the flavors in. Place the container in the fridge if you plan to eat it within a few days. Use it within 3-5 days for the best taste. If you want to save some for later, freeze the soup. Pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space for expansion. This soup can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. When it’s time to eat, reheating the soup is easy. You can use the stove or microwave. If using the stove, pour the soup into a pot. Heat it over medium heat, stirring often until warm. For the microwave, place the soup in a bowl and cover it. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between to avoid hot spots. To keep the texture nice, avoid boiling the soup when reheating. If it seems thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water while heating. This will help restore its creamy texture. In the fridge, your soup lasts about 3-5 days. If you freeze it, expect it to stay good for about three months. After that, the taste may fade. Always check for off smells or changes in color before eating. Proper storage is key to enjoying your delicious Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Soup. You need to cook the soup for 6-8 hours on low heat or 3-4 hours on high. This slow cooking lets all the flavors blend well. You will smell the wonderful aroma as it cooks. Yes, you can skip the cream if you want a lighter version. The soup will still taste great. You can add a splash of extra vegetable broth for a thinner soup. Tomato basil soup pairs well with many sides. Here are some ideas: - Grilled cheese sandwiches - Croutons for crunch - Slices of toasted bread - A fresh garden salad Each option adds a nice touch to your meal. Yes, this soup is gluten-free! All the ingredients are safe for those avoiding gluten. Just ensure any added bread or croutons are gluten-free too. To make a larger batch, simply double the ingredients from the Full Recipe. You may need a bigger slow cooker. Adjust the cooking time slightly if necessary. Always taste and tweak to your liking. You now have all the ingredients and steps to make a delicious slow cooker tomato basil soup. From essential flavors to optional twists, you can customize this recipe. Remember to use proper seasoning and enjoy garnishing to make it visually appealing. Storing and reheating tips will help keep your soup fresh. Overall, this soup is easy to prepare and very satisfying. Enjoy your cooking journey and the warm bowls of comfort that follow!](https://yumymoments.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/d555fe30-74ed-4a45-9faf-306322bdd7de-250x250.webp)