Creamy Tomato Basil Bisque (Printable)

Velvety tomato and basil soup finished with cream, ideal for cozy dining or elegant starters.

# What You Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 tbsp olive oil
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 cans (14.5 oz each) whole peeled tomatoes with juice
05 - 1 medium carrot, peeled and chopped (optional)

→ Liquids

06 - 2 cups vegetable broth (gluten-free if needed)
07 - 1/2 cup heavy cream

→ Herbs & Seasonings

08 - 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
09 - 1 tsp sugar
10 - 1/2 tsp dried oregano
11 - 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
12 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

→ Garnish (optional)

13 - Drizzle of extra cream
14 - Fresh basil leaves
15 - Crusty bread or croutons

# How to Make It:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and carrot, sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
02 - Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
03 - Add whole peeled tomatoes with juice, vegetable broth, sugar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer.
04 - Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are very soft.
05 - Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil leaves.
06 - Using an immersion blender or a countertop blender in batches, puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
07 - Return soup to low heat, stir in heavy cream, and heat gently for 2 to 3 minutes without boiling. Adjust seasoning if needed.
08 - Ladle into bowls, garnish with extra cream and fresh basil, serve hot with crusty bread or croutons if desired.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • It feels like a special secret to share when friends rave about its smooth, velvety texture and subtle sweetness.
  • This soup became a favorite because it’s easy to make yet tastes luxurious enough for company or a quiet solo dinner.
02 -
  • Don't rush simmering the soup; that gentle, slow melding of tomatoes and herbs makes all the flavor difference.
  • Blending thoroughly is key—skipping this step leads to a chunkier texture that changes the whole experience.
03 -
  • Reserve some fresh basil leaves whole and gently bruise them before adding at the end to intensify aroma without overcooking.
  • The secret that makes all the difference is stirring in the cream off heat and warming gently to preserve that silkiness.

Return