Creamy Tomato Bisque: A 35-Minute Comfort Soup Recipe

Easy Tomato Bisque Recipe

This creamy tomato bisque blends ripe tomatoes, aromatic vegetables, and lush cream into a velvety soup that’s perfect any night of the week.

Ingredients for Homemade Tomato Bisque

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 (28-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter until it sizzles. This builds a rich base for your soup.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent. Toss in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir constantly for 2 minutes to form a light roux—this ensures the bisque will be perfectly thickened.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir until the roux dissolves into the mixture. Add sugar, salt, pepper, and dried basil. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
5. Stir in the broth, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes to deepen the flavors.
6. Carefully transfer the hot soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and pulse until extremely smooth and creamy.
7. Return the blended soup to the pot, stir in the heavy cream, and heat through—do not boil. Taste and adjust seasoning.
8. Ladle the bisque into bowls, garnish with fresh basil, and serve piping hot with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tomato Bisque

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 35 minutes for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: A perfect balance of sweetness from tomatoes and warmth from herbs.
• Customizable: Make it vegetarian, add roasted red peppers, or swap cream for coconut milk.

Serving Suggestions & Variations

• Top with homemade croutons or a drizzle of pesto for extra texture.
• Stir in cooked shrimp or crispy bacon bits for added protein.
• Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.

Pro Tips for the Best Bisque

• Use high-quality canned tomatoes or fresh ripe tomatoes for peak flavor.
• Don’t skip the roux—flour and butter help create that classic bisque texture.
• Chill any leftovers; the flavors deepen overnight.

Enjoy every velvety spoonful of this comforting tomato bisque!