Fall-Inspired Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Introduction

As the leaves begin to turn and a crispness fills the air, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm, comforting bowl of soup. This Fall-Inspired Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Soup captures the essence of the season, blending ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of cream into a luscious concoction that warms both heart and soul.

Perfect for those busy autumn days, this recipe allows you to throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work. With every simmer, the flavors meld into a rich, fragrant delight that evokes memories of cozy evenings spent with loved ones. Serve it with a crusty piece of bread or a gooey grilled cheese sandwich for a meal that’s not just nourishing but utterly soul-satisfying.

So grab your slow cooker, and let’s create a bowl of happiness this fall!

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 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 little heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free option
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus more for garnish)
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Instructions

1. 1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. 1. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. 1. Transfer the onion and garlic mixture to the slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried oregano, sugar, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. 1. Give everything a good stir to combine well, then cover and set your slow cooker on low for 6 hours (or high for 3 hours).
5. 1. Once the soup is done cooking, stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and the balsamic vinegar. Allow it to heat through for about 10 minutes on low.
6. 1. Stir in the chopped fresh basil right before serving, and taste for seasoning, adding more salt or pepper as needed.
7. 1. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh basil and enjoy with some crusty bread for a cozy meal!
8. Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 6 hr 10 min | Servings: 6

Key Ingredients

1. Canned Whole Tomatoes – 2 (28-ounce) cans, preferably San Marzano for their rich flavor
2. Onion – 1 large, diced
3. Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
4. Vegetable Broth – 4 cups, or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option
5. Fresh Basil – 1 cup, packed and roughly chopped (can substitute with 2 teaspoons of dried basil)
6. Heavy Cream – 1 cup, for a creamy texture (substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
7. Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons, for sautéing
8. Salt – 1 teaspoon, adjust to taste
9. Black Pepper – ½ teaspoon, freshly ground
10. Sugar – 1 tablespoon, to balance acidity (optional, to taste)
11. Parmesan Cheese – for garnish (optional)

Feel free to explore seasonal garnishes like croutons or a drizzle of balsamic reduction to enhance your soup!

Baking Process for Fall-Inspired Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

While the cooking process for this creamy tomato basil soup is primarily done in the slow cooker, you can enhance your serving experience by adding some freshly baked accompaniments. Here’s how to prepare a few delightful baked goodies that will complement your soup perfectly.

Ingredients:

• For the Garlic Bread:
• 1 French baguette or Italian bread
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Salt to taste

• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

• For the Parmesan Croutons:

• 4 slices of day-old bread (any variety)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

Garlic Bread:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Butter Mixture: In a bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined.

3. Slice the Bread: Cut the baguette or Italian bread in half lengthwise to create two long pieces.

4. Spread the Mixture: Generously spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread.

5. Add Cheese (Optional): If you love extra flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of the buttered bread.

6. Bake: Place the prepared bread halves on a baking sheet, cut side up, and bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.

7. Serve Warm: Remove from the oven, slice the garlic bread into individual servings, and serve warm alongside your creamy tomato basil soup.

Parmesan Croutons:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Cube the Bread: Cut the day-old bread into small cubes (about 1-inch size) and place them in a mixing bowl.

3. Season the Bread: Drizzle the olive oil over the bread cubes, then sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Toss until the bread is well coated.

4. Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet.

5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until golden and crispy, tossing halfway through for even baking.

6. Finishing Touch: If desired, toss the warm croutons with a sprinkle of fresh chopped basil before serving.

Enjoy:

Once your Fall-Inspired Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is ready and all your baked goodies are out of the oven, it’s time to enjoy a warm, comforting meal. Serve the soup in bowls with a side of crispy garlic bread or topped with crunchy Parmesan croutons for that extra layer of flavor. Perfect for a cozy autumn day!

Serving Suggestions

This Fall-Inspired Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is not only a comforting dish on its own but can also be elevated with a few delightful pairings. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal:

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Pair your soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich. The gooey, melty cheese perfectly complements the creamy tomato soup, adding a satisfying crunch.

2. Crusty Bread: Offer slices of crusty artisan bread or sourdough for dipping. The bread will soak up the delicious flavors of the soup, making each spoonful even better.

3. Fresh Basil Garnish: Top your bowl of soup with fresh basil leaves for added freshness and a pop of color. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can also elevate the presentation and flavor.

4. Salad Side: Serve a light salad alongside your soup. A simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette can add a refreshing balance to the creamy soup.

5. Chili Flakes or Spice: For those who like a kick, sprinkle some red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce on top of your soup before serving to add a subtle heat.

6. Croutons: Add homemade or store-bought croutons for added texture. You can even toast them with garlic and herbs for extra flavor.

7. Wine Pairing: Enjoy your soup with a glass of red wine, such as a light-bodied Merlot or Pinot Noir, which beautifully complements tomato-based dishes.

8. Cheese Topping: Consider adding a scoop of creamy ricotta or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top of each bowl. The creaminess pairs excellently with the soup.

9. Herbed Olive Oil: Drizzle some herbed olive oil over the soup just before serving for a gourmet touch that adds depth to the flavors.

10. Comforting Desserts: Finish off your meal with a slice of pumpkin pie or apple crisp for a complete fall dining experience.

These serving suggestions can turn your humble bowl of creamy tomato basil soup into a well-rounded and satisfying meal, perfect for cozy fall evenings! Enjoy!

Conclusion

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there’s no better way to embrace the cozy vibes of fall than with a warm bowl of creamy tomato basil soup. This slow cooker recipe not only fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma but also offers a comforting and satisfying meal that your whole family will love. With the ease of letting your slow cooker do the work for you, you can spend more time enjoying the season and less time in the kitchen.

Whether you pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich for that classic combo or enjoy it solo, this soup is sure to become a go-to favorite. The rich flavors of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a hint of cream come together beautifully for a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

So, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and immerse yourself in the delightful experience of homemade soup. This fall-inspired creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect way to savor the season—one delicious spoonful at a time! Enjoy!