There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of tomato soup, especially when it’s made with fresh ingredients right from the kitchen. This Tomato Basil Bisque is creamy, cozy, and full of flavor, perfect for chilly nights or when you just need a little comfort food hug. With its smooth texture and fresh basil aroma, it’s an easy family favorite you’ll want to make again and again. Best of all? It uses simple, everyday ingredients and comes together in under an hour.
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dinner, Soup | 10 mins | 35 mins | 6 | ~220 |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 pounds fresh ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics
In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. - Add the tomatoes
Toss in the fresh tomatoes and cook until they start to break down, about 10 minutes. - Build the base
Stir in the tomato paste, broth, sugar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until slightly thickened. - Blend until smooth
Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the soup until silky smooth. (If using a blender, work in batches and return to the pot.) - Add cream and basil
Stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil. Simmer for another 5 minutes, then taste and adjust seasoning. - Serve & enjoy
Ladle into bowls, garnish with extra basil or a drizzle of cream, and serve warm with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Texture control: If you like a chunkier soup, blend only half and leave some tomato pieces intact.
- Make it vegetarian: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Recipe Variations
- Dairy-light version: Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream.
- Protein boost: Stir in shredded chicken, turkey sausage, or even beef meatballs for a heartier meal.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for a little kick.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a classic grilled cheese sandwich.
- Serve with crusty baguette or garlic bread for dipping.
- Add a fresh green salad on the side for balance.
- Top with homemade croutons and a sprinkle of parmesan for extra flavor.
Conclusion
This Tomato Basil Bisque with Fresh Tomatoes is the kind of recipe that makes any mealtime feel special—whether you’re serving it to family, sharing it with friends, or enjoying it solo on a cozy evening. Warm, creamy, and oh-so comforting, it’s a bowlful of goodness you’ll return to again and again.