Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is one of those easy comfort food our whole family loves even the toddlers. It’s rich, creamy, full of tomato and basil flavor, and so good with a crispy grilled cheese on the side.

I double the batch, let the extra soup cool, then portion it into freezer bags and freeze it flat. It makes the easiest quick lunch or dinner later on — just thaw, warm it up, and make a grilled cheese. Perfect for busy days when you want something homemade without starting from scratch.

   Ingredients

• 4 tbsp butter

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 2 cans fire roasted tomatoes

• 2 cans diced tomatoes

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 tsp kosher salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2–1 cup fresh basil leaves

• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream

• Optional: red pepper flakes, shredded Parmesan, and extra basil for serving

Directions

1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft. Stir in the garlic and tomato paste.

2. Add the whole peeled tomatoes, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until the flavors come together.

3. Add the fresh basil and blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender, or carefully blend in batches.

4. Stir in the heavy cream and warm over low heat. Don’t let it boil.

5. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot with grilled cheese.

Our favorite way to serve it: Grilled cheese made with Dave’s Killer Bread — the green bag. It makes the perfect crispy, hearty grilled cheese for dipping.