Creamy Tomato Bisque Recipe with Garlic and Basil

This luscious, creamy tomato bisque tastes elegant but is simple to make. With ripe tomatoes, heavy cream, Parmesan, and herbs, it’s a comforting soup that works for special occasions or a cozy weeknight meal.

Despite its fancy name, tomato bisque is simply an indulgent version of tomato soup: velvety, rich, and full of tomato flavor. This recipe relies on canned tomatoes for convenience and consistent taste, while heavy cream and whole milk give it that silky texture. A touch of Parmesan melts into the soup to provide a savory finish that brings each bowl up to restaurant level. The basic method is straightforward: blend, then simmer.

What You’ll Need

Below are the main ingredients and common substitutions to make this bisque flexible for your pantry. For precise quantities, consult the recipe card in the instructions section.

• Salted butter: If using unsalted butter, adjust the salt. Olive oil can be substituted.
• Yellow onion: White onion works as well; avoid red onion for this recipe.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is best; garlic powder can substitute in a pinch.
• Shallot: Replace with extra garlic if needed.
• Dried basil & oregano: Use Italian seasoning if you’re missing one of them.
• Tomato paste & sun-dried tomatoes: Optional, but they intensify tomato flavor.
• Red pepper flakes: Omit for no heat.
• Canned tomatoes: Fire-roasted crushed and diced tomatoes add depth; regular canned or roasted fresh tomatoes also work.
• Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: Adjust added salt if using regular broth.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the bisque for a silky finish.
• Heavy whipping cream & whole milk: Heavy cream makes it richer; half-and-half can substitute. Plant-based milks will alter flavor and texture.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds savory, melty richness.
• Bay leaves: Provide a subtle earthy note during simmering.
• Salt, black pepper, and granulated sugar: Season to taste—sugar balances the tomatoes’ acidity.

Serving Suggestions

This bisque pairs wonderfully with a grilled cheese sandwich, garlic breadsticks, or focaccia. For heartier meals, serve alongside protein dishes or use it as a starter before roasted chicken, steak, or seafood.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

• Fridge: Cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: To freeze, omit dairy and cornstarch (they separate). Freeze the dairy-free base for up to 6 months. After thawing in the fridge, reheat and stir in fresh cream or milk before serving.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring until warm. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring between heats to ensure even temperature.

How to Make Creamy Tomato Bisque

A simple method delivers rich flavor and silky texture—perfect as a main course with a sandwich and salad or as a comforting starter.

• Cook the onion: Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook 4–6 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic, finely chopped shallot, dried basil, dried oregano, tomato paste, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and red pepper flakes. Cook 2–3 more minutes until the tomato paste darkens slightly.
• Blend the aromatics: Transfer the onion mixture to a blender and puree until smooth, then return it to the pot.
• Blend the tomatoes: Puree the crushed and diced tomatoes in the blender until smooth, then add them to the pot and stir to combine.
• Add the broth: Stir in the broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
• Make the slurry: Whisk cornstarch with heavy cream until smooth, then whisk it into the pot. Add whole milk and stir until fully combined—this step thickens and enriches the bisque.
• Add the Parmesan: Stir in grated Parmesan and cook until melted and smooth, about 6–8 minutes. Add bay leaves and reduce heat to low; simmer another 10 minutes.
• Season and serve: Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, and 2–4 tablespoons granulated sugar to balance acidity. Remove bay leaves, ladle into bowls, and serve warm.

More Easy Soup Recipes

• Turkey Chili with Butternut Squash
• Cauliflower Cheese Soup
• Asparagus Soup
• Ham and Bean Soup
• Sizzling Rice Soup