Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds fresh tomatoes, chopped; 1 large onion, diced; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 carrot, chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making this Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup on busy days when I want a comforting meal without the fuss. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and fresh ingredients, making it a go-to for my family. By tossing everything into the crockpot, I can let the flavors meld together beautifully as I go about my day. Plus, it's a healthier option that doesn't compromise on taste, allowing me to enjoy a warm bowl of goodness anytime I please.

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:19:13.709Z

When I first tried making tomato basil soup in a crockpot, I was amazed at how hands-off it could be. I simply tossed in fresh tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fragrant basil, and let the slow cooker do its magic. The result was a rich and velvety soup that became a family favorite. I learned to adjust the seasoning just right by tasting during the cooking process, which truly enhanced the flavors.

One surprising detail that really made this recipe shine was adding a hint of balsamic vinegar right before serving. It brightened up the flavors beautifully, turning a simple dish into something special. Experimenting with textures by blending half the soup while leaving the other half chunky offered a delightful contrast that we all enjoyed!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fresh ingredients that burst with flavor
Easy to prepare and cooks while you do other things
Naturally healthy and packed with nutrients

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to the rich flavor of this Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup lies in its fresh ingredients. The tomatoes provide natural sweetness and acidity, while the onion and garlic contribute a savory base. By using fresh basil leaves, you ensure that each bowl bursts with aromatic herbs, which can easily be substituted with dried basil in a pinch, though I recommend fresh for maximum flavor impact.

When selecting tomatoes, look for ripe, juicy varieties such as Roma or on-the-vine tomatoes. They have fewer seeds and hold up better during cooking. Additionally, using low-sodium vegetable broth will allow you to control the sodium levels and enhance the soup’s natural flavors without overwhelming it.

Crockpot Cooking Essentials

Crockpot cooking not only simplifies meal prep but also allows the flavors to develop over time. Cooking the soup on low for 4 hours ensures that all the vegetables are tender, which is essential for achieving that velvety texture once blended. If you're short on time, you can cook on high for 2 hours, but keep an eye on the vegetables to avoid overcooking.

An immersion blender is a game-changer for this recipe, allowing you to puree the soup directly in the crockpot. This minimizes cleanup and maximizes ease, but if you don’t have one, a traditional blender will work as well. Just be cautious; blend in batches and allow steam to escape to prevent splatter.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 pounds fresh tomatoes, chopped
1 large onion, diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 carrot, chopped
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

Instructions

Steps

Combine Ingredients

In your crockpot, add the chopped tomatoes, onion, garlic, carrot, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine.

Season and Cook

Season with salt and pepper. Set the crockpot on low and let it cook for 4 hours or until the vegetables are soft.

Blend and Adjust

After cooking, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunky texture, blend only half of the soup.

Add Final Touches

Stir in the fresh basil and balsamic vinegar. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve

Ladle soup into bowls and enjoy hot, garnished with additional basil if desired.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more flavor and nutrients. Pairing this soup with a grilled cheese sandwich makes for a classic combination.

Storage and Reheating

This soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it an excellent make-ahead meal. Just let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through, which should take about 10-15 minutes.

If you want to freeze the soup, consider leaving out the fresh basil until you reheat it for the best flavor. The soup can be frozen for up to three months. To thaw, simply transfer it to the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave, then heat and add fresh basil before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup is delicious on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with various sides. Serve it with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread for dipping or alongside a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt on top for added creaminess and tang.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can also customize the soup with additional vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the crockpot at the beginning. They will soften nicely and integrate into the flavor profile without overshadowing the tomato and basil.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, canned tomatoes work well if fresh ones are not available. Just adjust the seasoning as needed.

→ How long can I store the soup?

The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It also freezes well!

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil Soup is completely vegan as it uses vegetable broth.

→ Can I add protein to the soup?

Absolutely! You can add cooked lentils or chickpeas for extra protein and texture.