Easy Creamy Tomato & Cannellini Bean Soup Recipe

When chilly evenings roll around, nothing hits the spot quite like a bowl of creamy tomato soup. This easy creamy tomato & cannellini bean soup is the ultimate cozy night comfort food, blending the rich flavors of ripe tomatoes with the hearty creaminess of cannellini beans. It’s not only satisfying but also packs a nutritious punch.

this Recipe

Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or looking for a quick meal that feels like a warm hug, this soup is a perfect choice. The smooth texture with a subtle tang and the soft beans create a beautifully balanced dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in under 40 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
• Uses simple pantry staples like canned tomatoes and beans.
• Rich, creamy texture without heavy cream, thanks to cannellini beans.
• Comforting and nourishing with a fresh basil garnish.
• Gluten-free and easily adaptable to vegan diets.

Ingredients

Gather these straightforward ingredients to create this rich and creamy tomato soup with cannellini beans.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes, with juice
• 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish
• 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk or other plant milk (optional for extra creaminess)

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 180 per serving

How to Make Easy Creamy Tomato & Cannellini Bean Soup – The Ultimate Cozy Night Comfort Food

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
2. Stir in minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using; cook for another 1 minute until aromatic.
3. Add the canned tomatoes with juice, vegetable broth, and sugar. Break the tomatoes apart gently with a wooden spoon. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook uncovered for 15 minutes.
4. Stir in the rinsed cannellini beans and season with salt and pepper. Let cook for 5 more minutes to heat through.
5. Remove from heat and add fresh basil leaves. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy but still with a bit of texture. Alternatively, transfer carefully to a blender in batches.
6. Stir in almond milk if desired for extra creaminess. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve with crusty bread for a perfect cozy meal.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the freshest flavor.
• Don’t skip rinsing the beans to remove excess salt and reduce any canned bean flavor.
• If you don’t have an immersion blender, a regular blender works fine; just blend in small batches and be cautious of hot liquids.
• For extra depth, sauté a small diced carrot along with the onion.
• Serve immediately or let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge for an even richer taste.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

You can also freeze this soup for up to 3 months. To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan if you use vegetable broth and plant-based milk. Avoid adding any dairy or animal products for a fully vegan meal.

What can I substitute for cannellini beans?

You can substitute navy beans or great northern beans if cannellini beans aren’t available. They have a similar creamy texture and mild flavor perfect for this soup.

Is it necessary to use fresh basil?

Fresh basil adds a bright, herbal note that complements the soup’s richness. You can use dried basil in a pinch, but fresh is recommended for the best flavor.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! Chopped carrots or celery can be sautéed with the onions for added texture and nutrition. Just keep in mind this will slightly change the flavor profile.