Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Experience the ultimate comfort of homemade tomato basil soup, crafted to perfection with rich, creamy textures and garden-fresh flavors. This classic recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish that's surprisingly easy to prepare. Our version balances the natural sweetness of tomatoes with aromatic basil and a luxurious touch of cream, creating a smooth, velvety soup that's both elegant and satisfying. Whether served alongside a crispy grilled cheese or enjoyed on its own, this soup delivers warmth and flavor in every spoonful.

TYPE SOUPS & STOCKS
SERVES 6
DIFFICULTY EASY
PREP TIME 10 MINUTES
COOK TIME 35 MINUTES
Ingredients on a marble surface include canned tomatoes, broth, olive oil, garlic, onions, cream, basil, butter, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and chili flakes.Ingredients on a marble surface include canned tomatoes, broth, olive oil, garlic, onions, cream, basil, butter, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and chili flakes.

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cans (28 oz each) whole peeled tomatoes
  • 2 cups chicken stock (or vegetable stock for vegetarian option)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Directions

  1. Heat All-Clad D3 Stainless 4-Quart Saucepan over medium heat. Add butter and olive oil. When butter melts, add diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
    Chef tip: sautéing the onion low and slow helps build sweetness in the soup’s base.
  2. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add canned tomatoes with their juice, chicken stock, sugar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
  4. Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and let simmer for 25 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  5. Remove from heat. Using an All-Clad Immersion Blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy.
    Chef tip: blending in batches creates a velvety texture, but an immersion blender makes cleanup effortless.
  6. Stir in heavy cream and fresh basil leaves. Simmer gently for another 5 minutes.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  8. Top each serving with a bit of Parmesan cheese.

Pro Tip

For an even deeper flavor, roast your canned or fresh tomatoes on a sheet pan before adding them to the soup. Roasting caramelizes natural sugars and adds complexity.

Serving & Notes

This creamy tomato basil soup pairs beautifully with a grilled cheese sandwich on sourdough or baguette. It’s a comfort classic often enjoyed in American households, especially during colder months or as a nostalgic lunch. Perfect for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or serving in small cups as an appetizer at parties.

Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Soup

Transform this classic recipe into an effortless slow-cooked masterpiece using your All-Clad Slow Cooker. Simply add the sautéed onions and garlic, tomatoes, stock, and seasonings to the slow cooker insert. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the flavors have beautifully melded together. During the final 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the heavy cream and fresh basil. The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to develop an incredibly rich, deep flavor while requiring minimal hands-on time. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend meal prep when you want restaurant-quality soup without standing over the stove.

Chef tip: For the best results, still take the time to sauté the onions and garlic before adding to the slow cooker – this builds an essential flavor foundation that makes all the difference in the final taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can you enhance the flavor of tomato basil soup?

Roast tomatoes and garlic before blending, add a splash of balsamic vinegar, or stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese. For deeper complexity, bloom dried herbs in butter before adding other ingredients.

How do you thicken tomato basil soup?

Create a butter and flour roux, blend in softened vegetables, or simmer uncovered to reduce. For a cream-free option, puree a can of cannellini beans into the soup.

What goes well with tomato basil soup?

Classic grilled cheese on sourdough, garlic cheese bread, or crusty baguette. For lighter options, try a fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette or crispy roasted chickpeas for added crunch.

 

RECIPE BY THE ALL-CLAD KITCHEN