Introduction
As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to embrace the cozy vibes of fall. This Fall-Inspired Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is the perfect blend of comforting flavors, combining the rich taste of ripe tomatoes with the aromatic essence of fresh basil. Perfectly crafted for busy days, this soup allows you to toss in your ingredients and let the slow cooker work its magic, transforming simple elements into a delightful harvest-inspired dish.
Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight meal or a satisfying dish to share with friends and family, this creamy tomato basil soup checks all the boxes. With hints of garlic and a velvety finish, it evokes the comforting nostalgia of autumn while being easy to prepare. Serve it alongside a crusty piece of bread or a grilled cheese sandwich, and you have a meal that warms the heart and soothes the soul. So, gather your ingredients and let’s kick off fall with a delicious and nourishing soup that celebrates the season!
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 2 (15 oz) cans crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free choice
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Instructions
-
- Warm the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Introduce the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, approximately 5 minutes.
-
- Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until aromatic.
-
- Move the onion and garlic blend into the slow cooker. Add in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried oregano, sugar, red pepper flakes (if desired), and season with salt and pepper.
-
- Mix everything thoroughly, then cover and set your slow cooker on low for 6 hours (or high for 3 hours).
-
- Once the cooking time is complete, stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) along with the balsamic vinegar. Let it warm up for about 10 minutes on low heat.
-
- Mix in the freshly chopped basil just before serving, tasting for seasoning, and adjust with additional salt or pepper as required.
-
- Serve while hot, adorned with extra fresh basil and enjoy with some crusty bread for a comforting meal!
- Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 6 hr 10 min | Servings: 6
Key Ingredients
- Canned Tomatoes: 2 cans (28 oz each) of crushed tomatoes for a rich base.
- Vegetables: 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1-2 carrots, chopped; and 1 celery stalk, chopped for flavor and texture.
- Vegetable Broth: 4 cups, to create a flavorful liquid base.
- Fresh Basil: 1 cup of fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped for that aromatic fall flavor.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup for creaminess and a smooth finish.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for sautéing the vegetables.
- Seasonings: Salt and black pepper to taste, along with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for a kick).
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated, for garnish (optional).
Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences!
Baking Process: Fall-Inspired Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
While this recipe primarily utilizes a slow cooker, a few components can be baked to enhance the flavors and textures. Here’s how to incorporate baking into your soup preparation:
- Roasting the Tomatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut fresh tomatoes in half and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Optional: Add minced garlic and chopped onions for extra flavor.
- Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are soft and slightly caramelized.
-
Once done, allow them to cool for a few minutes before adding them to your slow cooker.
-
Baking the Croutons:
- While your tomatoes are roasting, you can prepare homemade croutons to serve with your soup.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cube some day-old bread (like baguette or ciabatta) and place it in a bowl.
- Drizzle with olive oil and your choice of seasonings (like garlic powder, Italian herbs, or grated Parmesan).
- Spread the cubes out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake for about 10-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy.
-
Remove from the oven and allow them to cool as you finish the soup.
-
Combining Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
- In your slow cooker, combine the roasted tomatoes, sautéed onions, chopped basil, vegetable broth, a splash of heavy cream, and seasonings.
- If you’d like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
-
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
-
Final Touches:
- When the cooking time is up, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches.
-
Stir in any remaining heavy cream or a dollop of creme fraiche for extra creaminess.
-
Serve:
- Ladle the creamy tomato basil soup into bowls and top with homemade croutons.
- Garnish with additional fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful presentation.
Enjoy your comforting, fall-inspired meal with a side of crusty bread or your favorite salad!
Serving Suggestions
To enhance your Fall-Inspired Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Soup, consider these delightful serving suggestions that will elevate the experience:
-
Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with a warm, crusty baguette or artisan bread for dipping. A nice slice of sourdough or a garlic loaf can really complement the flavors.
-
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Pair your soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich. The gooey, melted cheese and golden-brown bread create a satisfying contrast to the smooth tomato soup.
-
Fresh Basil Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves on top not only adds a burst of color but also enhances the soup’s aromatic profile.
-
Drizzle of Olive Oil: A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil or a swirl of balsamic reduction can elevate the flavors and add a touch of elegance.
-
Parmesan Cheese: Grate some fresh Parmesan cheese over the top just before serving for an extra layer of rich, nutty flavor.
-
Croutons: Add some homemade or store-bought croutons for an enjoyable crunch. Season them with Italian herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
-
Salad Companion: Serve with a side salad, such as a simple arugula and cherry tomato salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, for a refreshing contrast.
-
Spiced Pepitas: Top with toasted pumpkin seeds or spiced pepitas for added texture and a seasonal twist.
-
Drinks Pairing: Pair with a glass of red wine, like a medium-bodied Merlot or a light Italian Chianti, or keep it non-alcoholic with a spiced apple cider for a cozy feel.
These serving suggestions not only complement the creamy tomato basil soup but also make for a hearty, inviting meal perfect for chilly autumn days. Enjoy!
Conclusion
This Fall-Inspired Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is the perfect dish to warm your heart and home during the cooler months. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy texture makes for a comforting bowl that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Whether enjoyed on its own, paired with a grilled cheese sandwich, or served as a starter for a festive gathering, this soup captures the essence of autumn. The slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully while you go about your day. So, grab your ingredients, cozy up with a blanket, and let the delicious aroma of this hearty soup fill your kitchen. Enjoy every spoonful of this fall favorite, and happy cooking!
