After a long day, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a bowl of warm, comforting Roasted Tomato Basil Soup. The moment you take that first spoonful, the creamy texture wraps around your taste buds while the vibrant burst of fresh basil takes you by surprise, transporting you to a sun-kissed Italian terrace.
This recipe came to me during a casual get-together with friends, when a simple discussion about comfort foods turned into a delightful culinary adventure. What I love most about this soup is how effortlessly it combines rich, roasted tomatoes with aromatic herbs, making it an ideal pairing for crusty bread or a gooey grilled cheese. Enjoying a bowl feels like a warm hug, and knowing it’s quick and easy to prepare makes it a weeknight favorite.
Whether you’re easing into a cozy evening or impressing guests, this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup promises to bring joy to your table and smiles to your heart. Let’s dive into this delicious, creamy masterpiece!
Why is Roasted Tomato Basil Soup a must-try?
Comforting Warmth: There’s nothing like a steaming bowl of soup on a chilly evening. This recipe delivers that beloved warmth in every spoonful.
Rich Flavor: The combination of roasted tomatoes and fresh basil creates a depth of flavor that is simply unforgettable.
Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes of cooking time, you can enjoy this delectable dish any night of the week.
Versatile Pairing: Perfectly complements crusty bread or a classic grilled cheese for a complete meal experience.
Adaptable Options: Feel free to customize with spices or extra veggies to suit your taste!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve it at gatherings, and watch it disappear quickly as friends and family savor each bite!
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Ingredients
• For the Soup Base
- Roma Tomatoes – Key for roasting to enhance sweetness and depth; substitute with any other firm tomatoes if unavailable.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness and aids in roasting; can substitute with any neutral oil.
- Unsalted Butter – Provides a creamy flavor; can replace with additional oil for a dairy-free option.
- Yellow Onion – Aromatic base that builds flavor; no direct substitutions recommended, although shallots may work.
- Garlic Cloves – Essential for depth; minced for best incorporation.
- Fresh Thyme – Adds herbal notes; substitute with 1.5 teaspoons dried thyme if fresh is unavailable.
- Kosher Salt & Ground Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
- San Marzano Tomatoes (canned crushed) – Provides consistency and flavor depth; any quality canned tomatoes can be used if San Marzano is not available.
• For Flavor Boost
- Fresh Basil – Vital for fresh flavor; replace with 0.25 cup dried basil if needed.
- Sugar – Balances acidity of tomatoes; optional based on personal preference.
• For the Liquid Component
- Chicken Stock – Base liquid; swap with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Heavy Cream – Provides richness and silkiness; can use whole milk, half-and-half, or omit for a lighter version.
Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting the unforgettable taste of this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup—let’s get cooking!
How to Make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures your tomatoes roast perfectly, enhancing their natural sweetness.
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Prepare Tomatoes: Slice Roma tomatoes in half or thick slices, arranging them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and season with kosher salt and ground black pepper. Roast for about 1 hour, until they’re golden and caramelized.
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Sauté Onions: In a large pot, add unsalted butter or your choice of oil and heat over medium-high heat. Sauté diced yellow onion for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
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Add Aromatics: Toss in minced garlic, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Sauté everything together for an additional minute, letting those fragrant aromas fill your kitchen.
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Incorporate Tomatoes: Mix in the canned crushed tomatoes, sugar, and fresh basil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for around 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the roasted tomatoes and chicken stock to the pot, then let it simmer for another 30 minutes, creating that comforting warmth you crave.
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Blend Smooth: Use an immersion blender to purée the soup to your desired consistency—smooth or chunky. Return it to heat, stirring in the heavy cream for that luxurious, creamy texture.
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Serve & Enjoy: Ladle the hot soup into bowls, and for an extra touch, top with optional croutons. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
Optional: Garnish with additional fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Freezer: Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing and remember to leave some space at the top for expansion.
Thawing: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave for a quick solution. Always reheat on the stove until heated through for the best texture.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of chicken stock or water if the soup is too thick. Stir well and heat until warmed through, restoring that creamy goodness of your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup!
Expert Tips for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
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Roasting Time: Ensure you roast your tomatoes long enough (about 1 hour) for maximum sweetness and flavor richness; under-roasting can lead to a less flavorful soup.
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Sautéing Technique: When sautéing onions, allow them to become soft and translucent. This base builds essential depth, so don’t rush this step!
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Blending Caution: Use an immersion blender carefully; consider blending in batches if your pot is too full. This prevents splatters and burns with hot liquids.
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Thickening Adjustments: If your soup turns out too thick, add a bit more chicken stock or water to reach your desired consistency. Balance is key for creamy roasted tomato basil soup.
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Flavor Enhancements: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Add in red pepper flakes for heat or roasted garlic for added depth, making it uniquely yours.
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Storage Tips: Refrigerate leftovers and consume within one week. For longer storage, freeze your soup in airtight containers for up to two months.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup in advance is a game-changer for busy weeknights! You can roast the tomatoes up to 24 hours ahead of time—just cover them and refrigerate until you’re ready to use them. Additionally, you can chop your onions and mince garlic a day in advance; store them in an airtight container in the fridge to ensure freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting soup, simply follow the final steps of sautéing the aromatics, incorporating both the roasted and canned tomatoes, and simmering. Finish it off by blending to your desired consistency and adding the cream for that luscious texture, making your weeknight meal just as delicious with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?
Imagine a cozy evening at home, a vibrant bowl of soup warming your hands as unforgettable flavors embrace your senses.
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Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic combination brings a melty, savory experience that’s unbeatable. The crispy bread allows for delightful dipping into the rich, creamy soup.
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Crusty French Bread: Its rustic texture contrasts beautifully with the smooth soup, making each bite a blissful moment of comfort and satisfaction.
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Garden Salad: A refreshing side with mixed greens, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a crunch that lightens up the meal beautifully. It’s a perfect balance to the creamy richness of the soup.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned root veggies bring a lovely caramelized sweetness to the table. The earthiness of roasted carrots and potatoes pairs perfectly with the tomato’s acidity.
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Pesto Pasta: The herby notes of pesto pasta harmonize with the basil in the soup, creating a medley of Italian flavors that will delight your palate.
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Wine Pairing: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chianti enhances the meal’s flavors, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes and providing an elegant touch when entertaining.
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Chocolate Mousse: A small, indulgent dessert to end your meal with a sweet touch. Its rich and silky texture plays off the creamy soup, making for a satisfying finale.
A world of delicious options awaits as you plan your perfect meal around this delightful Roasted Tomato Basil Soup!
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup to make it uniquely yours and enjoy delightful new flavors!
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Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes during the simmering phase for a hint of heat that elevates the flavor.
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Roasted Garlic: Incorporate whole garlic cloves with the tomatoes while roasting for a sweet, mellow flavor to enrich your soup.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like oregano or parsley for a refreshing twist that complements the basil beautifully.
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Creamy Alternatives: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream to create a dairy-free and delectable experience, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
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Vegetable Medley: Throw in diced carrots or bell peppers during the sauté for extra nutrients and a subtle sweetness, enhancing both flavor and texture.
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Nutty Flavor: Add a tablespoon of pesto for a herbal punch and richness, transporting your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Italy.
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Textures Galore: For a heartier soup, fold in some cooked grains like quinoa or barley, adding complexity and making your meal more filling.
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Fun Toppings: Get playful with garnishes like toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of balsamic glaze to introduce a delightful contrast with your creamy soup.
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe tomatoes for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Look for Roma tomatoes that are firm, plump, and have a deep red color. Avoid those with dark spots or blemishes, as they may be overripe or spoiled. If Roma tomatoes aren’t available, any firm variety will work, but I find that heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes also offer excellent flavor when roasted.
How should I store leftover Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?
Store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. I recommend reheating it gently on the stove over low heat to maintain its creamy texture. Just make sure to stir it occasionally!
Can I freeze Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?
Yes! This soup freezes beautifully. Transfer cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting, and then reheat on the stove until warmed through.
What if my soup is too thick after reheating?
No worries! If you find your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is too thick, simply add a bit more chicken stock or water to thin it out to your desired consistency. Stir well and let it heat until just warm—this will bring back that comforting, creamy texture you love!
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Very! To create a dairy-free version of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup, you can skip the heavy cream altogether or substitute it with coconut milk for a slightly sweet flavor. You can also use olive oil in place of butter for sautéing—it’s a delicious alternative!
Is it safe to store this soup for pets?
I wouldn’t recommend sharing this soup with pets. While the ingredients are mostly safe, onions and garlic can be harmful to dogs and cats. It’s always best to stick to pet-specific foods to ensure their safety. Enjoy your soup guilt-free!
Creamy Roasted Tomato Basil Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Tomatoes: Slice Roma tomatoes in half or thick slices and arrange them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for about 1 hour, until golden and caramelized.
- Sauté Onions: In a large pot, add butter and heat over medium-high heat. Sauté diced yellow onion for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add Aromatics: Toss in minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Sauté for an additional minute.
- Incorporate Tomatoes: Mix in the canned crushed tomatoes, sugar, and fresh basil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for around 10 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the roasted tomatoes and chicken stock to the pot, let it simmer for another 30 minutes.
- Blend Smooth: Use an immersion blender to purée the soup to your desired consistency. Stir in the heavy cream.
- Serve & Enjoy: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with optional croutons. Enjoy every spoonful!