Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love coming home to a warm bowl of fresh tomato basil soup after a long day. This healthy crockpot recipe not only fills my kitchen with an tantalizing aroma, but it also allows me to pack in plenty of veggies effortlessly. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, I can set it and forget it. The slow cooking process enhances the flavors beautifully, creating a comforting dish that satisfies my cravings while still being good for me.

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:43:05.766Z

When I made my first batch of this soup, I was amazed at how the simple ingredients transformed into something so delectable. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, melding the rich flavors of ripe tomatoes and aromatic basil effortlessly. I've found that using high-quality canned tomatoes really makes a difference in taste.

If you have fresh basil, use that for an extra punch of flavor! The vibrant color and lingering aroma make it a perfect dish for any occasion, especially on chilly evenings when comfort food is a must.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil create an irresistible blend
The slow cooker allows the flavors to deepen beautifully
Nutritious and low in calories, but full of flavor

      

Maximizing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is key to the robust flavor of this soup. The basil should be packed tightly when measuring to ensure you get the full aromatic impact it offers. Fresh tomatoes contribute not only to the taste but also the texture; if you want to swap for canned varieties, look for those packed in juice for a more vibrant flavor. Always taste and adjust seasonings halfway through the cooking to ensure the final product meets your expectations.

The olive oil in this recipe aids in sautéing the garlic and onions subtly, enhancing the overall depth of flavor. Consider using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for a richer taste. If you prefer, you can infuse the oil with herbs beforehand for an additional layer of flavor—just heat it gently before adding to the soup mixture.

Cooking Techniques for the Best Texture

The blending process transforms your soup from a rustic concoction into a silky, gourmet dish. If you don’t have an immersion blender, a traditional blender can be used. However, beware of blending hot liquids as they can splatter; always allow the soup to cool for a few minutes before transfer and blend in small batches for safety. The goal is to achieve a smooth consistency without over-processing that can make the soup too thin.

Adjusting the texture to your preferences is simple. For a chunkier soup, blend only half of the mixture, leaving some hearty ingredients intact. If you find that your soup is too thick after blending, a little extra vegetable broth stirred in can reach your desired consistency without losing the flavor balance.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup

2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil

These wholesome ingredients come together for a nutritious meal.

Instructions

Prep the Ingredients

In your crockpot, combine the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, and olive oil. Stir well to combine.

Cook the Soup

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the onions are tender.

Blend and Serve

Once cooked, stir in the fresh basil. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper and serve hot.

Enjoy your warm soup with a slice of whole grain bread!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition. You can also garnish with a splash of cream for decadence.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a large batch ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in airtight containers. The soup will maintain its flavor and texture for up to three months. Just remember to leave some space in the container for the soup to expand as it freezes.

Reheating is a breeze: simply warm it in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick. If you decide to heat it in the microwave, do so in short intervals, stirring in between to prevent uneven heating.

Serving Suggestions

This tomato basil soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic combo. You can also serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for an added richness. Fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate the presentation and flavor, making each bowl feel like a gourmet creation.

For a twist on the classic flavor profile, consider adding a splash of coconut milk for creaminess or stirring in some sautéed veggies like zucchini or bell peppers during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and color.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust for cooking time and ensure you blend them well.

→ How long can I store this soup?

You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ Is this soup vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients are plant-based!

→ Can I add proteins like chicken to this recipe?

Absolutely! Just add pre-cooked shredded chicken during the last hour of cooking.