Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Aromatics
In a small pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onions until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step boosts the flavor and gives your soup a homemade depth.
2. Build the Base
Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to your slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, broth, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine.
3. Slow Cook for Deep Flavor
Set your slow cooker on low and cook for 4–6 hours. This gives the flavors plenty of time to blend into a rich, robust soup.
4. Blend to Perfection
For a smooth and creamy finish, use an immersion blender to puree the soup right in the cooker. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer it in batches to a blender. This step is optional if you prefer a chunky texture.
5. Add Cream and Cheese
Once blended (or not), stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let the soup continue to cook for another 15–20 minutes on low until everything is melted and creamy.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle into bowls and top with a sprinkle of fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil. Serve with toasted sourdough or a buttery grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal.
Pro Tips for Success
Use quality tomatoes: The better the tomatoes, the better the flavor. San Marzano-style crushed tomatoes are ideal.
Fresh Parmesan only: Skip the pre-shredded kind. Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully and delivers more flavor.
Make it your own: Add roasted red peppers, a dash of smoked paprika, or red chili flakes for a twist.
Storage and Reheating
This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture.
Nutrition (Approx. per serving)
Calories: 250
Protein: 10g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Note: These values are approximate and can vary depending on specific ingredients used.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Tomato Parmesan Soup isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. Rich, creamy, and deeply comforting, it's perfect for anyone looking to elevate a humble tomato soup into something truly memorable. Ideal for family dinners, meal prepping, or impressing guests with a simple-yet-sophisticated starter.
Looking for more cozy recipes like this? Be sure to explore our full range of slow cooker meals and creamy soups. You’ll discover new favorites to warm your heart all year round.
