Creamy Tomato Basil Bisque Soup | Ready in 35 Minutes

Name: Creamy Tomato Basil Bisque Soup | Ready in 35 Minutes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 cup onion (diced ); 1/2 cup celery (diced ); 2 garlic cloves; 16 ounces chicken broth; 14 ounces crushed, canned, San Marzano tomatoes; 1/4 teaspoon paprika; 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (to taste); 1/8 teaspoon red chili pepper (to taste); 1/2 cup cooked rice; 1/2 teaspoon white sugar (to taste); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 Tablespoons heavy whipping cream (and more for garnish); 2 tablespoons thinly sliced fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

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Each spoonful of this quick and easy Tomato Basil Bisque Soup is like a warm, cuddly hug on a bitingly cold, chilly day. Dip it with a crisp and buttery grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort food experience!

A bowl of tomato basil bisque soup drizzled with cream and sprinkled with basil leaves — Tomato Basil Bisque Soup

What is Tomato Basil Bisque soup?

Tomato Basil Bisque is a luscious, velvety soup that combines the robust flavors of ripe tomatoes with the aromatic essence of fresh basil. Unlike traditional bisques, which refer to a creamy shellfish-based soup (e.g., lobster bisque), our Tomato Basil Bisque is based on the exquisite flavor combination of sun ripened tomatoes and fresh peppery basil.

Why this recipe works

To make a failproof recipe, we decided to go with canned tomatoes because of their year-round availability and consistent texture and flavor. Ripe tomatoes of course also work but they are only in season for a few months and not always available during the colder months when you crave this rich, velvety soup. Using the sweetness of vine ripened canned tomatoes harvested at its peak, along with a medley of onions, garlic, and celery, this recipe achieves its luxurious texture through the addition of cooked rice and heavy cream. The star of the dish, fresh basil, imparts a fragrant and herbaceous quality, enhancing the overall taste.

A grilled provolone cheese sourdough sandwich dipped into a bowl of tomato basil bisque soup — An Iconic Pairing - Tomato Basil Bisque Soup with a Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Why You'll Love This Recipe:

A breeze to make - just a quick simmer and blend makes this easy tomato soup recipe pretty foolproof and a great last minute recipe, even for beginners.
Versatile for any season - whether it's late summer when your garden is overflowing with overripe tomatoes or the depths of winter with canned tomatoes, this creamy tomato basil soup recipe adapts seamlessly to any time of the year.
The epitome of comfort food - ideal for chilly, rainy days, blizzards, or whenever you simply crave a soothing, flavorful bowl of warmth. It's one of the most delectable soups I've ever tasted!
Perfectly portioned for two - we intentionally crafted this delicious tomato soup recipe for a smaller serving size, perfect for sharing with your significant other or serving the kids when they come home from school. Feel free to double or triple the recipe if you're looking to make more.

Ingredients

This tomato bisque recipe uses readily available, simple ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store.

Olive oil plays a crucial role as the cooking fat in this recipe, adding richness and depth of flavor to the soup. It can be substituted with other fats like vegetable oil, avocado oil or clarified butter.

Onions contribute sweetness and savory notes to the soup base. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider using sweet onions. Shallots can be a good substitute for a more delicate taste.

Celery adds a refreshing, herbal flavor. If you do not like celery, you can also substitute with fennel for a similar texture and a hint of licorice flavor. Some cooks also add an equal amount of carrots - I do not as I find it changes the overall flavor profile.

Fresh minced garlic cloves adds an earthy yet mild sweet flavor. If you like a stronger garlic flavor, you can also add granulated garlic powder.

Chicken broth forms the flavorful liquid base of the soup. I typically use store-bought chicken stock but if you have homemade chicken stock feel free to use it. For a vegetarian option, vegetable broth, specifically mushroom broth for its umami properties or water is a suitable substitute.

I use use canned, peeled San Marzano tomatoes which are perfect because of their less acidic, sweet taste. These world-famous Italian tomatoes make fantastic soup as they are picked and canned when the vine ripened tomatoes are at its prime. I like using whole unpeeled tomatoes, but any type of canned tomato like tomato sauce and tomato puree that will do. Other brands of canned tomatoes and fresh whole tomatoes, especially those available during peak season can also be used. The best fresh tomato varieties are Roma tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, Campari, plum tomatoes and cocktail tomatoes.

Paprika adds a mild, smoky flavor and imparts a rich color to the soup. Smoked paprika can be substituted for a more intense smokiness, while sweet paprika offers a milder alternative.

Freshly ground black pepper and red chili pepper provide heat and depth to the soup. Adjust quantities to your spice preference. Consider cayenne pepper or dried red chili flakes as a substitute for red chili pepper if you desire more heat.

Cooked jasmine rice thickens the soup and adds a lovely silky texture. You could also other types of cooked rice, add some sandwich bread, flour, cornstarch or roux to the tomato base to thicken the soup.

White Sugar balances acidity of the tomatoes and enhances overall sweetness. Honey or maple syrup can serve as natural substitutes, adding depth without using refined sugar.

Heavy Whipping Cream creates the silky bisque-like texture of the soup. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, use coconut milk, add more rice or a piece of white bread.

Thinly sliced fresh basil leaves offer a burst of herbaceous aroma and peppery flavor. Substitute with parsley or cilantro for different herbal notes based on your preference. While fresh basil is optimal for this tomato soup recipe, you can also use dried or freeze-dried basil.

Essential for seasoning, salt, sugar and freshly ground black pepper should be adjusted to taste. This recipe is based on table salt - if you use kosher salt or other types of salt, I would mix a small amount into the soup and taste before adding more. You can also experiment with alternative salts, such as sea salt or smoked salt, for a nuanced flavor profile. Both white and brown sugar work in this recipe.

How to make tomato basil bisque soup

Step One: Sauté the vegetables. Add olive oil to a large saucepan and heat over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, and celery to the hot oil. Sauté until the onions become translucent but not brown - about 5 -8 minutes.

Step Two: Simmer, then blend the soup. Pour the chicken broth, canned tomatoes, paprika, black pepper, and red chili powder into the onion mixture. Stir and bring to a simmer. Add the cooked rice and continue to simmer - about 15 minutes. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup in the pot until smooth. If you do not have an immersion blender, you can also use a regular blender or food processor. You might need to blend in stages if your blender or food processor is not large enough.

Blend the Tomato Basil Bisque Soup - 2 step shot - one picture shows an immersion blender in the soup. The second shows how creamy and smooth the soup is after blending. — Blend the Tomato Basil Bisque Soup

Step Three: Add the cream, garnish with basil. Add the heavy cream, salt and sugar. Taste and adjust for seasoning. If the pureed soup is too thick, add more broth; if too thin, cook, stirring often, until reduced and slightly thickened, about 10 minutes. For the best results, make the creamy tomato bisque a day ahead and refrigerate. To serve, ladle this simple soup into bowls and garnish each bowl with a drizzle of cream and fresh, chopped basil.

A delicious bowl of Tomato Basil Bisque Soup with a Grilled Cheese Sandwich on the side. — Tomato Basil Bisque Soup

Tips on making the best tomato soup

Make the soup the day before for maximum flavor. Allowing the soup to sit for a day allows the flavors to meld and intensify. The extra time allows the various ingredients to harmonize resulting in a more well-rounded flavor profile.
Add tomato paste to intensify the tomato flavor. Tomato paste intensifies the tomato flavor by providing concentrated, umami-rich notes, adding deeper flavor through caramelization, and enhancing thickness and body. Additionally, it helps balance the natural acidity of tomatoes, resulting in a more robust and well-rounded flavor profile.
Use a regular blender if you don't have an immersion blender. If you don't have an immersion blender, blend the soup in stages with a regular blender so that the blender is filled a little more than half-way.
Strain for ultra smooth soup. Strain the tomato base in Step Two through a fine mesh strainer before proceeding to Step Three.
Add a pinch of sugar to brighten the flavors. If the soup tastes a little dull, add a pinch of sugar to brighten the flavors.
Thicken the soup with extra rice or a sweet potato. Add half a baked sweet potato or another handful of rice to the soup if you want to make it thicker. It also adds a subtle sweetness, adding to the hearty flavors of the soup.
Use baking soda to counteract bitterness. Sometimes fresh tomatoes can leave a slight bitter taste. Adding a pinch of baking soda will counteract the bitterness.

How many calories are in this soup?

A single serving of this Tomato Basil Bisque soup has about 341 calories, 9.3 grams of protein, 8.7 grams of fat, and 55.4 grams of carbohydrates.

This creamy Tomato Basil Bisque recipe yields approximately two servings. The nutrition guidance is intended for informational purposes only. Please use it as a general guideline. If the nutrition information is important to you, you should independently verify it using your preferred tool.

Soup Variations

How to make roasted tomato basil soup

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place the oven rack in the middle.
Cut the tomatoes in half and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet lined with parchment or aluminum foil. Drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt.
Roast for 30-40 minutes or until fragrant. Add the roasted tomatoes to the recipe in place of the frozen/canned tomatoes and proceed at directed.

How to make roasted red pepper and tomato bisque

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place the oven rack in the middle.
Cut the tomatoes in half and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment or aluminum foil. De-seed the red pepper, slice in half and place on the parchment. Drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt.
Roast the tomatoes for 30-40 minutes or until fragrant. Add to the recipe in place of the frozen/canned tomatoes and proceed at directed.

How to make vegan tomato bisque

Use vegetable stock or water instead of the chicken broth. Mushroom-based stocks are the fantastic because of their added umami flavor. Use full fat coconut milk or blend a slice of white bread instead of the heavy cream.

Slow Cooker tomato bisque

After simmering the vegetables, transfer them to a slow cooker. Add the chicken broth, sliced fresh or canned tomatoes, rice, paprika, black pepper, and red chili pepper. Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours. Blend. Add the heavy cream. Adjust for seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped basil leaves before serving this deliciously creamy tomato basil soup.

Chunky tomato soup

You can make this delicious tomato soup chunkier by adding diced whole tomatoes or not blending the soup.

Garnish Variations

Add crumbled bacon for a smokier flavor.
Sprinkle with dried red pepper flakes for additional heat.
Add slivered or grated cheese like feta, gorgonzola, cheddar, parmesan, gruyere or asiago cheese.
A dollop of pesto adds additional basil flavor.
Add a teaspoon of sour cream for more zest.
Add a tiny drizzle of balsamic glaze for a layer of sweet and tangy flavor.
Add some chopped fresh parsley for color.

How long does tomato soup last in the fridge?

Tomato basil bisque soup remains fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days. To maximize its shelf life, store the leftover soup in an airtight container. Additionally, for a burst of flavor upon reheating, consider adding a touch of fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil.

Can you freeze homemade tomato soup

Homemade tomato basil bisque soup freezes exceptionally well. To freeze, pour the cooled soup into airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving some room for expansion. Label with the date for easy tracking. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

How to reheat

Stovetop (optimal). Transfer the frozen or refrigerated soup to a saucepan over medium heat. Stirring occasionally, bring it to a gentle simmer. This gradual reheating ensures the flavors meld beautifully.

Microwave. Transfer the frozen or refrigerated soup to a microwave safe container. Place in the microwave with a cover as the soup will splatter. Microwave in short intervals, stirring between each, until the desired temperature is reached.

Pairing and Serving Ideas

Below are some ideas for inspiration:

Classic grilled cheese sandwich: Serve alongside a gooey grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort food combination. The crispy, golden exterior and gooey cheese center complement the bisque's creamy texture.
Fresh herb garnish: Sprinkle a handful of freshly chopped basil, dill or parsley on top before serving. The vibrant green adds a burst of color and a pop of freshness to each spoonful.
Crusty bread bowl: Transform your soup into a filling meal by hollowing out a rustic bread bowl. The soft interior soaks up the bisque, creating a delightful contrast in textures.
Parmesan crisps: Create Parmesan crisps by baking grated Parmesan until golden and crispy. These make for an elegant and flavorful topping, adding a delightful crunch to the velvety texture of the soup.
Side of crusty bread: One of the best ways to eat this creamy soup is with a side of freshly baked bread. We strongly recommend making your own. We highly recommend our crusty Two-Hour Artisan Bread. If you like soft, bread try our Turkish Pide Bread, which is one of the easiest bread recipes on our website. Finally, if you want to try something absolutely EPIC, we strongly recommend our Banh Mi Bread. With it's crisp eggshell-thin crust and soft, fluffy cloudlike interior - it's nothing short of EPIC.
Add flavor layers: While the flavors of this delightful soup stand on its own, it becomes even more flavorful when garnished with toppings such as a drizzle of olive oil (our current favorite), homemade croutons, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, or a dollop of pesto or sour cream.

FAQs

What is the difference between tomato basil bisque and tomato basil soup?

The difference between tomato basil bisque and tomato basil soup lies in their texture, creaminess, and complexity. Tomato basil bisque typically boasts a smoother, creamier consistency achieved through the addition of cream or a roux-thickened sauce, resulting in a more indulgent flavor. The word 'bisque' often carries a European influence, aligning with the French tradition of bisques, which are known for their richness. On the other hand, tomato basil soup suggests a simpler, broth-based preparation, focusing on the natural flavors of tomatoes and basil without the creamy elements, reflecting a more straightforward interpretation.

How can I keep the cream from curdling?

To safeguard against cream curdling in your tomato basil bisque, begin by tempering the cream gradually, whisking small amounts of hot soup into it to adjust temperatures. Ensure a low to medium heat when introducing the cream to the soup and opt for full-fat or heavy cream for its increased stability. Stir continuously to evenly distribute the cream and prevent localized overheating. Always add the cream towards the end after the acidic ingredients like tomatoes have been incorporated and the soup has cooled slightly. If your soup still curdles you can also add a teaspoon of roux or corn starch in the soup to provide a stabilizing buffer.

Is tomato bisque gluten free?

The gluten-free status of tomato bisque depends on the specific ingredients and preparation methods used in the recipe. The primary concern for gluten in a tomato bisque would typically come from thickeners or additives that contain wheat or gluten. This particular recipe does uses rice as a thickening agent so it is gluten free.

How to cut acidity in tomato soup?

To reduce acidity in tomato soup and create a more balanced flavor profile, consider trying the following techniques:
Add Sweetness: Counteract the acidity with natural sweetness. You can achieve this by adding a small amount of sugar, honey, maple syrup, or other sweeteners of your choice. Start with a small quantity and adjust to taste.
Incorporate Carrots or Other Sweet Vegetables: Introduce sweet vegetables like carrots to the soup. Carrots can help mellow out the acidity and contribute a natural sweetness.
Use Baking Soda: A tiny pinch of baking soda can help neutralize acidity. Be cautious with the amount, as too much can alter the taste and texture of the soup. Add a small amount at a time and taste as you go.
Balance with Cream or Dairy: Cream or dairy products, such as milk or cream, can help mitigate acidity and add a smooth, rich texture to the soup. Be mindful of the quantity to avoid making the soup overly heavy.
Choose Low-Acidity Tomatoes: Choose tomatoes that are lower in acidity, such as Roma or plum tomatoes. These varieties are often less tangy compared to others.
Roast the Tomatoes: Roasting the tomatoes before adding them to the soup can help reduce acidity and enhance their natural sweetness. This method adds depth of flavor to the soup.
Balance with Other Flavors: Add ingredients that bring a savory or umami element to the soup, such as onions, garlic, or herbs. This can help balance out the acidity and create a more well-rounded taste.
Citrus Zest or Vinegar: While it might seem counterintuitive, a small amount of citrus zest or a splash of vinegar (like balsamic vinegar) can brighten the flavors and potentially mask some of the acidity.

How to thicken tomato soup?

There are several ways to thicken tomato soup, depending on your dietary preferences and the desired consistency. Here are some common methods:
Simmer and Reduce: One of the simplest ways to thicken tomato soup is to simmer it for a longer period, allowing some of the liquid to evaporate and the soup to naturally thicken. Keep the pot uncovered and stir occasionally.
Roux: Make a roux by melting butter in a pan, adding an equal amount of flour, and cooking the mixture until it forms a smooth paste. Whisk the roux into the tomato soup, and let it simmer until it thickens.
Cornstarch Slurry: In a separate bowl, mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry. Slowly add the slurry to the simmering soup, stirring continuously until it thickens.
Potato Flakes or Mashed Potatoes: Add instant potato flakes or mashed potatoes to the soup. Potatoes contain starch that can effectively thicken the soup. Simmer until the desired consistency is reached.
Beans or Lentils: Puree cooked beans or lentils and add them to the soup. This not only thickens the soup but also adds nutritional value and a creamy texture.
Heavy Cream or Coconut Milk: For a creamy tomato soup, add heavy cream or coconut milk. This not only thickens the soup but also imparts a rich and luxurious texture.
Bread or Croutons: Blend a piece of bread or a handful of croutons into the soup. This can add thickness and also enhance the flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate some Parmesan cheese into the soup. The cheese will melt and help thicken the soup while adding a savory kick.
Arrowroot Powder: Make a slurry with arrowroot powder and water, then add it to the soup. Arrowroot is a gluten-free alternative to thicken soups and sauces.
Egg Yolk: Whisk an egg yolk in a separate bowl and gradually add some hot soup to it, stirring constantly. Once tempered, add the egg mixture back to the soup, stirring continuously until it thickens.
Rice: Cook a little rice with the soup. Blend the soup when done.

How to season tomato soup?

Below is a list of the most common methods to season tomato soup. Remember to taste as you go and adjust the seasoning gradually.
Salt and Pepper: Start with the basics. Add salt and pepper to taste. This simple combination can significantly elevate the overall flavor of the soup.
Fresh Herbs: Stir in fresh herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, or parsley. The vibrant and aromatic quality of fresh herbs can bring a burst of freshness to the soup.
Dried Herbs: If fresh herbs aren't available, dried herbs can be used. Italian seasoning, dried basil, and oregano work well. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use them sparingly.
Garlic: Sauté minced garlic in a bit of olive oil and add it to the soup for a savory kick. Roasted garlic also adds depth of flavor.
Onions: Sautéed onions contribute sweetness and complexity to the soup. Consider using yellow or red onions for a robust flavor.
Bay Leaves: A couple of bay leaves can infuse the soup with a subtle earthy flavor. Remember to remove them before serving.
Red Pepper Flakes: For a hint of heat, add red pepper flakes. Adjust the quantity to suit your spice preference.
Balsamic Vinegar: A splash of balsamic vinegar can add a tangy and slightly sweet note to the soup. Start with a small amount and taste before adding more.
Sugar or Honey: If the soup is too acidic, a touch of sugar or honey can balance the flavors by adding sweetness. Add gradually and taste to achieve the desired balance.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese not only adds a savory element but also helps thicken the soup. Sprinkle it on top just before serving.
Cream or Milk: For a creamy tomato soup, add a swirl of heavy cream, half-and-half, or coconut milk. This imparts richness and a luxurious texture.
Citrus Zest: Finely grated citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, can brighten the soup's flavors. Be cautious with the quantity to avoid overpowering the tomato taste.

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