Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes; 1 medium onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a warm bowl of homemade tomato basil soup, and I love making it in my crockpot for effortless preparation. The vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes paired with fresh basil invigorate the senses, and let’s not forget that this soup is packed with nutrients. I appreciate how the slow cooking process allows all the ingredients to meld beautifully, creating a rich and aromatic dish. With minimal effort, I can come home to a bubbling pot of deliciousness waiting for me, making it a weeknight favorite.

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:01:20.008Z

I've experimented with several tomato soup recipes over the years, but this crockpot version is by far my favorite. The key to its incredible flavor lies in the fresh ingredients—using ripe, juicy tomatoes combined with fragrant basil really elevates this dish. I’ve also discovered that roasting the garlic before adding it to the pot gives the soup a wonderful depth of flavor, taking it from ordinary to extraordinary.

Another element that I love about this recipe is just how customizable it is. If I want a creamier texture, I’ll add a splash of coconut milk or a bit of cream at the end, giving it a luxurious finish. Plus, the longer cooking time allows all the flavors to intensify, ensuring that every bowl is a comforting hug in soup form!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich tomato flavor complemented by aromatic basil
Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
Packed with vegetables for a healthy meal option
Versatile for customization based on your taste

      

Optimizing Ingredient Quality

Selecting high-quality tomatoes is crucial for achieving that rich flavor in your soup. Opt for San Marzano tomatoes if available; they're known for their sweetness and low acidity, which results in a more balanced soup. If using fresh tomatoes, aim for around 3-4 pounds of ripe, juicy varieties to replace the canned ones, and make sure to peel and chop them before adding them to your crockpot.

When choosing basil, fresh is always best. Look for vibrant green leaves without wilt or browning, as they deliver the most potent flavor. To preserve their integrity, chop basil just before adding it to the soup. If fresh basil is unavailable, you can substitute with about 1 tablespoon of dried basil, but be aware that its flavor is more subdued. Add it at the beginning for better infusion.

Cooking Techniques for Depth of Flavor

While the crockpot is largely hands-off, consider sautéing the onions and garlic first in olive oil until they turn translucent and fragrant. This step adds depth of flavor to your soup, making it even more aromatic. If you prefer this technique, do it in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes before transferring everything to the crockpot.

Adjusting the thickness of your soup can help cater to your texture preference. If you want a creamier result without adding cream, try blending in some cooked white beans or a potato along with the other ingredients. They will create a smooth texture while boosting the nutrition, making this dish even heartier without the added calories of cream.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Soup

2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
1 medium onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by dicing the onion and mincing the garlic. These ingredients will create a flavorful base for your soup.

Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

In your crockpot, combine the crushed tomatoes, diced onion, minced garlic, vegetable broth, and olive oil. Stir well to combine.

Add the Fresh Basil

Toss in the freshly chopped basil leaves. Don't worry if they seem like a lot; they will cook down beautifully.

Season and Cook

Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your taste. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.

Blend and Serve

Once cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend just half of it. Stir in cream or coconut milk if desired, then serve hot.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try roasting the tomatoes and garlic before adding them to the crockpot. It can make a world of difference!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Tomato basil soup is a fantastic make-ahead meal. It actually improves in flavor after a day in the fridge, as the ingredients continue to meld. Store it in an airtight container for up to 5 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over medium heat to maintain the best texture and flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

If you're looking to freeze your soup, cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove. You may need to add a splash of broth to loosen it up as it may thicken after freezing.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This tomato basil soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic experience, or top it with croutons for added crunch. For an extra touch, a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of parmesan adds a lovely finishing touch.

To give your soup a little kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some sautéed bell peppers during the cooking process. For a seasonal twist, stir in some roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers in the last 30 minutes of cooking. This not only enhances flavor but also adds extra nutrients to your meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes! This soup freezes well. Just store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just make sure to peel and chop them, and the quantity should be about 2 lbs to match the canned tomatoes.

→ How long does it take to cook in the crockpot?

Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours for the best results.

→ Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Definitely! Vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or spinach can be added for some extra nutrition and flavor.