Creamy, rich and bursting with brightness, this tomato soup recipe is the ultimate sidekick to a grilled cheese sandwich!

Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons butter
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
1 large onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons dried basil
3 cans (28 ounces each) whole peeled tomatoes, undrained
1 container (32 ounces) chicken stock
2 tablespoons tomato paste
3 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 cup heavy whipping cream, optional
Optional: Thinly sliced fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

-In a 6-quart stockpot or Dutch oven, heat oil, butter and pepper flakes over medium heat until butter is melted. Add carrots and onion; cook, uncovered, over medium heat, stirring frequently, until vegetables are softened, 8-10 minutes. Add garlic and dried basil; cook and stir 1 minute longer. Stir in tomatoes, chicken stock, tomato paste, sugar, salt and pepper; mix well. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, to let flavors blend, 20-25 minutes.

-Remove pan from heat. Using a blender, puree soup in batches until smooth. If desired, slowly stir in heavy cream, stirring continuously to incorporate; return to stove to heat through. Top servings with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese if desired.

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