Are you ready for a warm, comforting bowl of soup that’s super easy to make? This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is your solution. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a rich and satisfying dish. No endless chopping or fussing—just toss everything in and let the slow cooker do some magic. Let’s dive in and make your kitchen smell heavenly while enjoying this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
Detailed Ingredient List
- 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Each ingredient plays a key role in making this soup rich and tasty. Canned crushed tomatoes are the base. Their deep flavor shines through. Diced onion adds sweetness and a nice texture. Minced garlic gives it that warm, aromatic touch we love. Vegetable broth ties everything together, making the soup comforting and hearty.
Dried oregano brings an earthy note. Sugar balances the acids in the tomatoes. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. For creaminess, you can choose heavy cream or coconut milk. Fresh basil leaves add a burst of freshness at the end. Finally, olive oil adds a silky finish.
If you want to garnish, grated Parmesan cheese is a delicious option. It melts slightly when added to hot soup, making it even better. Each ingredient helps create a bowl of warmth and flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation in Slow Cooker
- In your slow cooker, combine:
- 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Stir well to mix everything together. Next, drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the top. Give it another gentle stir to blend the oil in.
Cooking Times
Set your slow cooker to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The goal is to make the onions soft and let the flavors blend well. Check the onions after about 3 hours on high. You want them tender for the best taste.
Blending the Soup
After cooking, it’s time to blend. You can use an immersion blender right in the slow cooker. This makes it easy and safe. If you use a regular blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches. Hot soup can splatter, so be cautious when blending.
Final Touches
Once the soup is smooth, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk. Mix it well until smooth. Next, add 1 cup of chopped fresh basil. Taste your soup and adjust the salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot, and feel free to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavor
To make your soup even tastier, you can adjust the spices. A little more oregano or some red pepper flakes can boost flavor. If the soup feels flat, add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. This brightens the taste and wakes up your palate.
Troubleshooting
What if your soup is too thick? Simply add more vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and heat it a bit longer. If the soup tastes too acidic, you can balance this by adding a touch of sugar or a pinch of baking soda. Both help mellow the acidity.
Presentation Tips
For a beautiful presentation, serve the soup in rustic bowls. Top each bowl with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. This adds color and texture, making your dish even more inviting.
Variations
Dairy-Free Alternatives
For a dairy-free version, you can use coconut milk or cashew cream. Coconut milk adds a lovely richness and a hint of sweetness. It blends well with the tomatoes and basil. Cashew cream gives a nutty flavor and a creamy texture. To make cashew cream, blend soaked cashews with water until smooth. Both options keep the soup creamy and delicious.
Adding Proteins
Adding proteins can make the soup heartier. You can add cooked chicken for a protein boost. Simply shred the chicken and stir it in before serving. For a vegetarian option, try adding beans like cannellini or kidney beans. Lentils are also great. They pack nutrition and blend well with the soup. Cook them separately and stir them in at the end.
Vegetable Add-ins
You can add other vegetables to this soup for extra flavor and nutrition. Carrots and celery work well. Just chop them small and add them with the onions. You can also swap in seasonal veggies like zucchini in summer or sweet potatoes in fall. This makes the soup fresh and different every time you make it. Get creative with what you have on hand!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
You can store Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Soup in the fridge for up to five days. Make sure to let the soup cool before you put it in a container. Use an airtight container to keep the flavors fresh. When you want to eat it again, just take it out and reheat.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze the soup, let it cool completely first. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can stay good in the freezer for about three months.
When you want to enjoy it again, thaw the soup in the fridge overnight. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat. Stir frequently to keep the texture smooth. If you notice it’s too thick, add a splash of broth or water. This keeps the soup creamy and flavorful, just like when it was fresh!
FAQs
Can I make this soup on the stove instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this soup on the stove. Start by sautéing the diced onion and minced garlic in a pot. Then, add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes. Blend the soup until smooth and stir in the cream or coconut milk.
What are some gluten-free options for this recipe?
This soup is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free vegetable broth. Check the labels on all canned products to ensure they are gluten-free. You can enjoy this soup without worrying about gluten.
How can I adjust the spice level in the soup?
To adjust the spice level, add red pepper flakes for heat. Start with a small amount, then taste and add more if needed. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a different flavor.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. You’ll need about 3-4 pounds of ripe tomatoes. Blanch, peel, and chop them before adding to the pot. Fresh tomatoes will give the soup a bright flavor.
Is there a way to make this soup vegan?
Yes, you can make this soup vegan by using coconut milk instead of heavy cream. Ensure your vegetable broth is vegan as well. This will keep the soup creamy without dairy.
What is the best way to serve Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?
Serve the soup hot in rustic bowls. Add a sprinkle of fresh basil on top. You can also serve it with crusty bread or grilled cheese for a classic pairing.
This post covered creamy tomato basil soup, from easy ingredients to tasty tips. You learned how to blend flavors, enhance taste, and present your dish well. Remember, making this soup at home is simple and fun. You can adjust it for your diet and make it your own. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and ingredients! Your perfect bowl awaits.
