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: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Wholesome Planning

I love making this Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup on busy weeknights when I want something wholesome and satisfying without the hassle. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; just throw everything in the crockpot, and it works its magic! The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and aromatic spices creates a delightful flavor that warms you from the inside out. Plus, it’s so easy to adapt by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it perfect for any occasion or dietary preference.

Created by

Portia Langford

Last updated on 2026-01-12T04:37:39.760Z

When I first stumbled upon this Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup recipe, I was thrilled at how few ingredients it required. It was a game changer for my meal prep routine! The flavors develop so beautifully over the cooking time, and I often find I can adapt it based on what I have on hand, making it versatile and fun.

One of the best tips I’ve learned is to blend the soup just before serving to achieve that creamy consistency without heavy cream. It elevates the dish while keeping it light and nutritious. I often pair it with a crusty piece of bread, making for a delightful meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh, vibrant flavors that brighten any meal
Healthy, guilt-free indulgence for any time of year
Easy to prepare, perfect for busy schedules

The Magic of Slow Cooking

One of the greatest advantages of using a crockpot for this Tomato Basil Soup is the deep, developed flavors that emerge from the slow cooking process. By cooking on low heat for four hours, the vegetables become tender and the tomatoes break down, creating a rich and hearty base. You'll know it's ready when the onions are translucent and aromatic, filling your kitchen with a mouthwatering scent that promises warmth and comfort.

Another benefit of this method is hands-off ease. Once you’ve added the ingredients to the crockpot, you can allow it to work its magic while you focus on other tasks, whether that’s prepping a side salad or winding down after a long day. Just set it and forget it, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

Ingredient Insights

The star of this recipe, the tomatoes, contribute both flavor and texture. Using canned diced tomatoes (with their juices) ensures convenience and maintains consistent quality, especially when fresh tomatoes are out of season. If you want a fresher taste, feel free to swap in roasted or sun-dried tomatoes for a slightly different flavor profile. Just remember that roasting brings out natural sugars while sun-dried tomatoes add a concentrated taste.

Fresh basil is not only aromatic but also essential to achieving that vibrant green color and refreshing flavor that pairs perfectly with tomatoes. When you add the basil at the end of cooking, it helps retain its brightness and aromatic properties, ensuring you enjoy the full impact of this herb. If fresh basil isn’t available, use a smaller amount of dried basil, noting that dried herbs release flavors differently.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious healthy soup:

Ingredients

2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Make sure to have fresh basil for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your soup:

Prepare the Ingredients

In your crockpot, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, vegetable broth, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

Cook the Soup

Cover and cook on low heat for 4 hours or until the onions are tender.

Blend the Soup

Once cooked, stir in the chopped basil and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Adjust with more broth if it's too thick.

Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, and enjoy with crusty bread!

Your delicious soup is ready to warm you up!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition. You can also substitute fresh basil with dried, but remember to reduce the quantity as dried herbs are more concentrated.

Storing and Reheating

This Tomato Basil Soup stores beautifully in the fridge for up to five days. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, adding a splash of vegetable broth can help restore the soup's desired consistency and prevent it from thickening too much in the fridge. Simply reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup in individual portions. Freeze in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. Crusty bread is a classic choice, perfect for dipping. A side salad with crisp greens and a light vinaigrette complements the soup's richness without being too heavy. Alternatively, serve it with a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting twist—a match made in cozy food heaven!

For a little extra flair, consider topping each bowl with a drizzle of olive oil or a dollop of sour cream. You can also sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese or crushed red pepper on top for added flavor and texture. Don't hesitate to get creative in your presentations!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

→ How long will it last in the fridge?

The soup will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.

→ Can I add other ingredients?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots or spinach, or proteins like lentils or chicken for added substance.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities.