Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 10 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making this Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup for its vibrant flavors and rich, comforting texture. The slow cooking allows the tomatoes to meld beautifully with the fragrant basil, creating a dish that's both healthy and satisfying. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare! Just toss in the ingredients, set the timer, and enjoy a deliciously aromatic meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether served as a starter or a main course, this soup is sure to brighten your palate and warm your spirit.

Created by

Sophia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-06T09:49:12.400Z

When I first decided to try making a crockpot soup, I was unsure about the depth of flavor it could achieve. After experimenting with various tomatoes and seasonings, I found that using quality canned tomatoes really makes a difference. It captures the essence of ripe, fresh tomatoes, even when they’re out of season! This soup quickly became a family favorite.

I also love that this recipe is incredibly customizable. Sometimes, I throw in extra vegetables or swap out the basil for other herbs. The result is a hearty, nutritious meal that keeps everyone coming back for seconds!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor
A healthy option that's filling and satisfying
Perfectly pairs with grilled cheese or fresh bread

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Fresh basil is key to the flavor profile of this soup. When you fold in chopped basil just before serving, it brightens the entire dish, infusing it with a vivid aroma and enhancing the tomato's natural sweetness. If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried basil as a substitute, but the fresh herb truly elevates the soup’s taste.

Additionally, using good quality crushed tomatoes makes a significant difference in the overall flavor. Opt for San Marzano tomatoes if possible, as their sweetness and low acidity create a balanced base for the soup. The interplay between these tomatoes and the aromatic vegetables creates layers of flavor that are comforting and satisfying.

Cooking Techniques for Best Results

For an even richer flavor, consider sautéing the diced onions and minced garlic in olive oil for about 5-7 minutes before adding them to the crockpot. This process caramelizes the sugars in the onions, providing a deeper, more complex flavor profile to the soup. A key indicator is the onions becoming translucent and slightly golden at the edges.

If you prefer a creamier texture without the option of heavy cream, try blending in some cashew cream or coconut milk instead. This will provide creaminess while keeping the soup dairy-free. However, be mindful of blending too long, as over-blending can remove the desired rustic texture.

Serving and Storing Your Soup

When serving, pairing this tomato basil soup with a side of grilled cheese or crusty bread not only enhances the meal but also creates a comforting combination perfect for chilly days. I love to sprinkle some fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil on top before serving to add that extra touch of flavor and presentation.

If you plan to make this soup in advance, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave some space in the containers as the soup expands when frozen. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Ingredients

Soup Base

2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 medium onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh Ingredients

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)

Preparation Steps:

Steps to Prepare

Combine Ingredients

In your crockpot, add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, diced onion, minced garlic, sugar, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Cook the Soup

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or high for 2 hours, until the vegetables are tender.

Blend and Finish

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Stir in the fresh basil, olive oil, and heavy cream if using. Season to taste.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional fresh basil if desired. Enjoy with crusty bread!

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when mixing in the ingredients. It adds a pleasant heat without overpowering the flavors.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your soup tastes a bit too acidic, a small pinch of baking soda can help neutralize the acidity from the tomatoes. Start with a little—about 1/4 teaspoon—and adjust to taste. This can really balance the sweetness of the soup without overtly altering the flavor profile.

If the soup is thicker than you like, simply add a splash of extra vegetable broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, the soup will thicken as it cools, so err on the side of thinner if storing for later.

Flavor Variations

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped fresh chili when combining the ingredients in the crockpot. This will infuse the soup with a lovely warmth that complements the tomato and basil beautifully.

You can also introduce a touch of smokiness by adding diced roasted red peppers from a jar. Just toss them in at the beginning, and they will meld seamlessly with the other flavors, creating a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

This soup is easily scalable! If you need a larger batch for a gathering, you can double the ingredients and use a larger crockpot or split it into two separate pots. Just be sure to adjust cooking times slightly for larger quantities, as they may require a bit more time to reach optimal tenderness.

Conversely, if you're cooking for one or two, you can halve the recipe and enjoy leftovers. This soup actually tastes better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop. Just keep in mind to adjust the salt and seasoning, as flavors may concentrate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! Just roast them beforehand to enhance their sweetness.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients listed are gluten-free, making this a safe choice for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.