Few meals are as comforting as a warm bowl of tomato basil soup, especially when it’s homemade and simmered slowly to develop rich flavor. This 3-Ingredient Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something truly satisfying. With minimal prep and almost no effort, this recipe delivers a smooth, creamy soup that tastes like it simmered all day on the stovetop—without the work.
Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner, a cozy lunch, or the perfect pairing for grilled cheese, this slow cooker tomato basil soup fits the bill. The crockpot does all the heavy lifting, allowing the tomatoes, basil, and cream to blend together gently for a classic, comforting flavor.
Why This Recipe Works
Tomato basil soup is a timeless favorite because of its balance of flavors. Tomatoes bring natural sweetness and acidity, basil adds freshness and aroma, and cream smooths everything out into a velvety texture. Cooking the soup low and slow in the crockpot allows these ingredients to meld together without scorching or needing constant attention.
This recipe works especially well because:
- It uses only three simple ingredients
- The slow cooker enhances flavor without effort
- No sautéing or stovetop cooking is required
- It’s easy to customize without complicating the recipe
- It delivers consistent results every time
Even beginner cooks can make this soup with confidence.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves
Choosing the Best Ingredients
Because this recipe is so simple, ingredient quality matters. Choose good-quality crushed tomatoes with minimal added ingredients. San Marzano-style tomatoes are an excellent choice if available. Fresh basil provides the best flavor and aroma, while heavy cream adds richness and smoothness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Avoid substituting milk for cream, as it may curdle or result in a thinner soup.
How to Make 3-Ingredient Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup
Step 1: Add the Tomatoes
Pour the crushed tomatoes into the crockpot and spread them evenly across the bottom. This forms the base of the soup.
Step 2: Add the Basil
Tear the fresh basil leaves and add them directly to the tomatoes. Tearing the leaves rather than chopping them helps release their natural oils and flavor during cooking.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours. During this time, the tomatoes will gently simmer and the basil will infuse the soup with fresh herbal notes.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Once cooking is complete, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. If using a standard blender, blend carefully in batches and return the soup to the crockpot.
Step 5: Add the Cream
Stir in the heavy cream and allow the soup to heat for an additional 10–15 minutes before serving.
Helpful Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh basil whenever possible for the best flavor
- Add the cream after blending to maintain a smooth texture
- Blend carefully when the soup is hot
- Taste before serving and adjust consistency if needed
If the soup is too thick, a small splash of water or broth can be added, though this is usually unnecessary.
Optional Variations and Add-Ins
While the recipe is designed to stay simple, a few optional additions can enhance flavor without overpowering it:
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- A pinch of sugar to balance tomato acidity
- Garlic powder or onion powder
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
These additions are optional and should be added sparingly to maintain the simplicity of the dish.
What to Serve with Tomato Basil Soup
This soup pairs beautifully with classic comfort foods, making it perfect for a complete meal:
- Grilled cheese sandwiches
- Crusty bread or baguette slices
- Garlic toast
- Simple green salad
It also works well as a starter for larger meals.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freezing
Make-Ahead:
This soup can be prepared ahead of time and kept warm in the crockpot on the WARM setting for up to an hour before serving.
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
For best results, freeze the soup before adding the cream. Add cream after reheating to preserve texture.
Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain a smooth consistency.
Why You’ll Keep Making This Recipe
This 3-Ingredient Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup is a recipe you’ll return to again and again. It’s reliable, comforting, and incredibly easy, making it perfect for busy days or relaxed weekends. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the flavors to shine, while the slow cooker makes preparation nearly effortless.
Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping, or craving a cozy homemade soup, this recipe delivers every time.
Final Thoughts
Simple recipes are often the most satisfying, and this tomato basil soup is proof. With only three ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a homemade soup that feels warm, familiar, and comforting. Once you try it, this 3-Ingredient Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.