Tomato bisque is a rich, creamy soup that offers a comforting and elegant twist on the classic tomato soup. Silky-smooth and deeply flavorful, this dish is perfect for chilly evenings, light lunches, or as a refined starter for a dinner party. What sets a bisque apart from a regular soup is its luxurious texture, created by blending the ingredients to a velvety consistency and finishing with cream for added richness.
Originating from French cuisine, the term “bisque” was traditionally used for shellfish soups. However, over time, chefs have adapted the technique for vegetables like tomatoes, which benefit beautifully from the smooth, creamy base. In a traditional tomato bisque, ripe tomatoes are simmered with aromatics such as onions, garlic, and herbs like thyme or basil. After cooking, the mixture is pureed and enriched with cream or a touch of butter to enhance its depth and silkiness.
Tomato bisque is incredibly versatile. It can be served with a slice of crusty bread, a grilled cheese sandwich, or even topped with croutons, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. For a heartier meal, add a side salad or a protein like grilled shrimp or chicken.
One of the best things about tomato bisque is that it’s both easy to make and impressively delicious. Whether you use fresh tomatoes at the peak of summer or high-quality canned tomatoes in the colder months, the result is a soup that’s satisfying, cozy, and full of flavor.
This French-inspired classic proves that comfort food can also be elegant. Tomato bisque is a warm, welcoming dish that brings out the natural sweetness and acidity of tomatoes, balanced with creamy richness—perfect for those seeking both simplicity and sophistication in a bowl.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cans tomatoes 28 oz, crushed
- 2 cups chicken broth low sodium
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sugar optional, to taste
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper freshly ground
- 1 tablespoon basil fresh, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until onion is translucent.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and sugar, cook for 5 more minutes.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to a smooth consistency.
- Serve garnished with fresh basil.
Nutrition
This tomato bisque is delicious! I made it for my family, and they loved it. The cream makes it so rich!
I don’t know, it tasted kinda bland. I expected more from a recipe with so many ingredients. Maybe I missed something?
OMG! So easy and so good! Like a hug in a bowl! Definitely making this again!
I totally agree! This soup is just wonderful. It warms the soul! 🔥❤️
Yum! Added some red pepper flakes for a kick and it was lit.
I don’t know… the flavor was just kinda blah to me. Maybe I did something wrong? But I’m sticking to my store-bought soups.
yummy!!!
Not a fan, tasted kinda bland. I’ll stick to the canned stuff.
Tomato bisque? Never heard of it. Is this a fancy term for tomato soup?
Yes, it’s like a fancy tomato soup with cream added! Gives it a richer flavor. You should try it!
This was too easy! I liked the taste, but my family didn’t really care for it. 🤷♂️
Yum!
I used canned tomatoes. Still came out great! No immersion blender tho.
It was good but I think it need more salt! Everyone has different taste I guess.
I love this recipe! It’s super easy and quick. Perfect for a cold day. Just don’t forget the basil, it makes a big difference!
5 stars all the way! I’m definitely making this again. Best tomato bisque ever!
I agree! This bisque is so creamy and delicious. You really nailed the flavors!
Not sure what the fuss is about. It was just okay for me. I’ve had better tomato soups.
Tomato soup is tomato soup. Is this really that special?
I added more garlic than called for and it was too strong. Be mindful of the garlic!
Absolutely delicious! I added some croutons on top and it was perfect. 😋
Wayyy too much cream. Next time I’ll cut it in half!
Easy to make and cheap too! I love this recipe so much!
I feel like the sugar is unnecessary. It’s a savory soup! Just stick to the basics.
This bisque is so creamy and delicious! Perfect for a cold day.
Totally agree! This bisque warms my soul on chilly nights. 🍲
I forgot the basil and it was still good. Making it again soon!
I dunno how it could be as good without basil. It’s like making pizza without cheese! 🤔 But glad you liked it.
Glad it turned out well without the basil! It’s great to experiment. Can’t wait to hear how it goes next time with it!
Tomato soup? Easy peasy! I just added some leftover pasta to mine for a twist! Yummy!
Not the best. I think it’s too creamy. Prefer more tomato flavor.
I thought tomato soup was just for kids, but this recipe blew my mind!
This soup was amazing! So creamy and rich. I added some croutons on top, and it was perfect. Will definitely make it again!
2 cans of tomatoes?? What about fresh tomatoes? Anyway, my kids loved it, so I guess it’s a win!
Eh, just okay. Could use more spice. Give me a kick, please! 🥵
I totally agree! A little chili powder or some cayenne could really amp up the flavor. 🥵
I followed the recipe but it came out too thick for my taste. Maybe add more broth next time.
Not my favorite. Maybe it’s just me, but I prefer chunkier soups. This one was just… mushy.
This bisque was fantastic! Creamy and just the right amount of seasoning. Will definitely make it again!
Tomatoes and cream? Sounds weird but I tried it and OMG it’s delish! I might just add more garlic next time tho.