Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup

Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and flavor to any occasion. This rich and creamy soup, made with fresh basil and vibrant tomatoes, is perfect for cozy winter evenings or casual gatherings with friends. Its effortless preparation in a slow cooker makes it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights, delivering a homemade taste without the hassle.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything into your crockpot and let it do the work!
• Rich Flavor: The combination of crushed tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil creates a delightful taste that warms the soul.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this soup on its own, paired with a grilled cheese sandwich, or as a starter for dinner.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with fresh vegetables and herbs, this soup is both delicious and nutritious.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: It’s easy to double the recipe for leftovers or to freeze for later use.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Below are some essential tools you’ll need to create this delightful Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Immersion blender
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking; just set it and forget it!
• Immersion blender: Blends the soup to a smooth consistency without transferring it to another container.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup, gather the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base

• 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth

For Creaminess and Flavor

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by preparing all your ingredients. Dice the onion and mince the garlic so they’re ready to go into the slow cooker.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Add the following ingredients into your slow cooker:
1. Crushed tomatoes
2. Diced onion
3. Minced garlic
4. Vegetable broth

Step 3: Cook the Soup

Set your slow cooker:
– Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
– Alternatively, cook on high for 3-4 hours.

Step 4: Blend Until Smooth

Once cooking time is complete, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it reaches a smooth consistency.

Step 5: Add Cream and Seasoning

Stir in:
– Heavy cream
– Chopped basil
– Dried oregano
– Salt and pepper

Step 6: Serve Hot

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy your Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup with your favorite bread or as is!

This recipe serves 6-8 people, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep throughout the week!

How to Serve Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup

Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup is delicious on its own, but it can be enhanced with a few serving suggestions. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this comforting soup.

Pair with Grilled Cheese

• A classic combination, grilled cheese sandwiches provide a crispy contrast to the creamy soup.

Top with Fresh Basil

• Adding fresh basil leaves as a garnish gives an extra pop of flavor and a beautiful presentation.

Add Croutons

• Crunchy croutons add texture and soak up the delicious broth, making every spoonful delightful.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A light salad can balance the richness of the soup, adding freshness and crunch.

Drizzle with Olive Oil

• A swirl of high-quality olive oil enhances the flavor and adds a touch of elegance to your dish.

Use Cheese Toppings

• Shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese melted on top creates a rich, cheesy delight that complements the soup perfectly.

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How to Perfect Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup

To ensure your Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips.

• Use ripe tomatoes: Fresh or quality canned tomatoes will enhance the flavor and richness of your soup.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for optimal flavor.

• Blend thoroughly: For a creamy texture, use an immersion blender until the soup is completely smooth.

• Add cream at the end: Stir in heavy cream just before serving for a luxurious finish without curdling during cooking.

• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or parsley for additional layers of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup

Enjoying your Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup is even better when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   Perfect for dipping in the soup, garlic bread brings a warm, buttery flavor that everyone loves.

2. Caprese Salad
   This fresh salad of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil echoes the flavors in your soup while adding brightness.

3. Cheese Quesadillas
   Crispy quesadillas filled with melted cheese make for a hearty side that pairs well with tomato soup.

4. Stuffed Peppers
   Flavorful stuffed peppers bring an earthy element that works wonderfully alongside the creamy tomato base.

5. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing provides a crunchy counterpart to the soft soup texture.

6. Pasta Salad
   A cold pasta salad offers a refreshing contrast and can be customized with various ingredients for added enjoyment.

7. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and nutrients while complementing the flavors of your soup beautifully.

8. Cornbread
   Slightly sweet cornbread balances out the acidity of tomatoes while adding a comforting touch to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using Whole Tomatoes: Whole tomatoes can lead to a chunky texture. Always opt for crushed tomatoes to achieve that silky smooth finish.
• Skipping the Fresh Basil: While dried herbs are convenient, fresh basil adds a vibrant flavor. Make sure to include it for the best results.
• Not Blending Enough: A chunky soup isn’t what we want. Blend your soup thoroughly until it’s completely smooth and creamy.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoned soup can taste flat. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving for the perfect balance.
• Overcooking the Cream: Adding heavy cream too early can result in curdling. Stir it in at the end of cooking for a rich, creamy texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; just leave out the cream before freezing.

Reheating Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until fully warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

You can use fresh tomatoes, but you’ll need to peel and crush them first, which can be time-consuming compared to using canned crushed tomatoes.

How do I make this soup vegan?

To make this soup vegan, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, and ensure your vegetable broth is plant-based.

What should I serve with Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup?

This delicious soup pairs well with grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread, or even a simple salad for a complete meal.

How can I customize my Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup?

Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. You could also try different herbs such as thyme or parsley for variety.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you’re craving something warm and hearty. Experiment with different toppings or add-ins to make it uniquely yours!