A warm bowl of Tomato Basil Parmesan Soup is the perfect way to enjoy the classic flavors of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and rich Parmesan cheese. This velvety soup is both satisfying and comforting, with a depth of flavor that comes from slow-simmering fresh ingredients. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or pairing it with a grilled cheese sandwich for lunch, this soup is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love Tomato Basil Parmesan Soup

Rich and Flavorful: The combination of ripe tomatoes, basil, and Parmesan cheese creates a well-balanced, rich soup that’s comforting and delicious.
Quick and Easy: This soup is surprisingly easy to make, taking less than an hour from start to finish.
Perfect for Pairing: Whether with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich, this soup is the perfect partner for your favorite sides.
Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with vegetables and fresh herbs, this soup is a lighter version of comfort food without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients for Tomato Basil Parmesan Soup

Olive oil: Provides a rich base for sautéing the aromatics and adds flavor to the soup.
Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor base of the soup.
Garlic cloves: A must-have for flavor! Adds aromatic richness to the soup.
Canned crushed tomatoes: The heart of the soup, providing a smooth, tangy base with all the flavor of ripe tomatoes.
Tomato paste: Adds a deeper, more intense tomato flavor.
Vegetable broth: Forms the liquid base of the soup, enhancing its savory profile.
Fresh basil: Brings freshness and a burst of herbal flavor to balance out the richness.
Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Ground black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and depth to the soup.
Heavy cream: Makes the soup extra creamy and comforting.
Parmesan cheese: Adds richness and a salty, umami flavor to the soup.
Fresh parsley: Optional garnish to add a pop of color and freshness.

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, and cook for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Blend the Soup: After simmering, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches, then return it to the pot.
Season the Soup: Stir in the fresh basil, salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to infuse the flavors.
Add Cream and Parmesan: Lower the heat and add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and the soup is creamy.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve with crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches.

How to Serve Tomato Basil Parmesan Soup

This soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The ultimate pairing, offering a crispy, melty contrast to the creamy soup.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the soup.
Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.

Additional Tips

Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezing: This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
Vegan Version: To make the soup vegan, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use a plant-based Parmesan cheese.
Add-ins: Feel free to add cooked pasta, croutons, or even a drizzle of pesto for an extra layer of flavor.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A1: Yes! You can use fresh tomatoes, but you’ll need to peel and seed them before blending. You’ll also need to cook them down longer to achieve the right consistency.

Q2: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A2: Yes! This soup can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge. It actually tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld.

Q3: Can I use low-fat cream?
A3: Yes, you can use low-fat cream or even half-and-half, but the soup will be less rich and creamy.

Q4: Is this soup gluten-free?
A4: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check that your vegetable broth and any add-ins are gluten-free.

Q5: How can I adjust the thickness of the soup?
A5: If you like a thicker soup, you can reduce the broth or add more tomato paste. For a thinner soup, just add a bit more broth or water.

Q6: Can I make this soup spicier?
A6: Absolutely! You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

This Tomato Basil Parmesan Soup is perfect for any occasion, offering comfort and deliciousness in every spoonful. It’s easy to make, satisfying, and guaranteed to warm you up!