Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Roasted Tomato Soup with Basil is a comforting, velvety soup made from sweet roasted tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fresh basil. This rich and flavorful soup is perfect for cozy nights, pairing wonderfully with grilled cheese or crusty bread. Its smooth texture and deep roasted flavor make it a timeless classic with a gourmet twist.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

roma tomatoesgarlicolive oilsaltblack pepperonionvegetable brothheavy creamfresh basiltomato pastesugar (optional, to balance acidity)

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Slice the tomatoes in half and place them cut-side up on the baking sheet along with whole garlic cloves.

Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast for 35-40 minutes, until tomatoes are soft and caramelized.

In a large pot over medium heat, sauté chopped onions in a bit of olive oil until translucent.

Add the roasted tomatoes and garlic to the pot along with vegetable broth and tomato paste.

Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer to a blender in batches.

Stir in the heavy cream and torn basil leaves, cooking for another 5 minutes.

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and sugar if needed.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesRoasting time: 40 minutesSimmering and blending time: 20 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free version.

Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Toss in roasted red bell peppers for added depth.

Use cherry tomatoes for a sweeter profile.

Top with croutons or shaved Parmesan for extra texture.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes?

Yes, use high-quality whole canned tomatoes if fresh aren’t available—roast them for extra flavor.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or any plant-based milk.

Why is sugar optional?

A small amount of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes, especially if they’re not very ripe.

Can I add protein?

Yes, add cooked beans or shredded chicken for a more filling meal.

Do I need a blender?

An immersion blender is easiest, but a standard blender works just as well—blend in batches for safety.

Can I use dried basil?

Fresh basil is preferred for best flavor, but use 1 tsp dried basil if needed.

How thick should the soup be?

That’s up to you—adjust with more broth for a thinner consistency.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free. Just pair it with gluten-free bread if desired.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded.

What’s the best garnish?

Try fresh basil leaves, a swirl of cream, a drizzle of olive oil, or croutons.

Conclusion

Creamy Roasted Tomato Soup with Basil brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of elegance to the table. Its rich roasted tomato base and aromatic basil make it a perfect choice for lunch, dinner, or a light appetizer. Whether you’re savoring it alone or pairing it with your favorite sandwich, it’s a dish you’ll want to revisit again and again.