Creamy Tomato Basil Bisque Soup Recipe – Rich, Comforting, and Easy to Make

Few dishes capture comfort and elegance in a single bowl quite like a Tomato Basil Bisque Soup. The rich aroma of ripe tomatoes simmering with fresh basil and garlic instantly fills your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner on a cold evening or looking for a light yet satisfying meal, this velvety bisque has you covered.

Unlike traditional tomato soups, a bisque is luxuriously creamy and infused with layers of depth — thanks to roasted tomatoes, slow-cooked onions, and a splash of cream that ties everything together. It’s a recipe that feels indulgent yet wholesome, simple yet sophisticated.

Ingredients Needed

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories
Olive oil	2 tbsp	240
Yellow onion, chopped	1 medium	45
Garlic cloves, minced	3	15
Fresh ripe tomatoes (or canned)	6 medium (about 4 cups)	120
Tomato paste	2 tbsp	30
Fresh basil leaves	½ cup	2
Vegetable or chicken broth	3 cups	30
Heavy cream (or half-and-half)	1 cup	400
Sugar (optional, to balance acidity)	1 tsp	15
Salt	To taste	0
Black pepper	½ tsp	2
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)	¼ tsp	2

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1: Prepare the Base

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until they turn translucent and soft. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

2: Add Tomatoes and Tomato Paste

Stir in chopped tomatoes (or canned tomatoes if using) and tomato paste. Cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and release their juices. The paste deepens the flavor and adds that classic bisque richness.

3: Simmer the Soup

Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Lower the heat, add salt, pepper, and sugar (if needed to balance acidity), and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes. The tomatoes should become tender and the flavors well-blended.

4: Blend Until Smooth

Once the mixture has cooled slightly, transfer it to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree until smooth and creamy. Blend until no chunks remain for that perfect silky texture.

5: Add Cream and Basil

Return the soup to the pot. Stir in heavy cream and chopped fresh basil. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes over low heat to meld all the flavors together. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with a drizzle of cream, a sprinkle of black pepper, and a few basil leaves. Serve warm with toasted bread, croutons, or a classic grilled cheese sandwich.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

• Make it vegan: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream, and use vegetable broth.
• Boost flavor: Roast the tomatoes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes before adding them to the soup — this enhances sweetness and adds a smoky depth.
• Add texture: Stir in roasted red peppers, diced sun-dried tomatoes, or a handful of cooked lentils for extra heartiness.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes, smoked paprika, or cayenne for a subtle heat.
• Lighter version: Use milk or Greek yogurt instead of cream for a lower-calorie alternative that still tastes rich and smooth.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~280 kcal
Protein	5 g
Carbohydrates	16 g
Fat	20 g
Saturated Fat	9 g
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	8 g
Sodium	560 mg
Vitamin A	45% DV
Vitamin C	70% DV
Calcium	10% DV

Serving Suggestions

• Serve your Tomato Basil Bisque Soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich — the melty cheese and crisp bread are a perfect match for the creamy soup.
• Pair it with garlic breadsticks or herbed croutons for extra crunch.
• For a light meal, enjoy it alongside a Caesar or garden salad.
• Drizzle a bit of pesto or balsamic glaze on top for a restaurant-style finish.
• Serve in small cups as a starter or appetizer at dinner parties.

FAQs

1. What’s the difference between tomato soup and tomato bisque?

A tomato bisque is richer and creamier than regular tomato soup. It’s made with cream or milk to create a smooth, velvety texture, while tomato soup is usually broth-based and lighter. The bisque also tends to have deeper flavors from slow simmering and fresh herbs like basil.

2. Can I make Tomato Basil Bisque Soup vegan or dairy-free?

Absolutely! Replace heavy cream with coconut milk, oat milk, or cashew cream, and use olive oil instead of butter. These swaps keep the soup just as creamy and flavorful without any dairy.

3. What kind of tomatoes work best for this soup?

For the best flavor, use ripe Roma or plum tomatoes, as they have a naturally sweet and less acidic taste. If tomatoes aren’t in season, canned San Marzano tomatoes are an excellent alternative — they’re rich, flavorful, and perfect for soups.

4. Can I make Tomato Basil Bisque Soup ahead of time?

Yes, and it often tastes even better the next day! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to maintain the creamy texture.

5. Can I freeze Tomato Basil Bisque Soup?

Definitely. Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop. Stir in a splash of cream or broth while reheating to refresh the texture.

6. How can I make my bisque thicker?

If your soup turns out too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, blend in a small boiled potato or a few spoonfuls of cooked rice before pureeing — this naturally thickens the soup without altering the flavor.

Conclusion

A steaming bowl of Tomato Basil Bisque Soup is more than just a meal — it’s pure comfort in every spoonful. The rich, velvety texture and aromatic blend of fresh basil and ripe tomatoes make it an all-season favorite that never disappoints. Whether you’re cooking for guests or cozying up at home, this creamy bisque adds warmth, flavor, and elegance to any table.