Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

There’s nothing quite like the warmth of a bowl of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup on a chilly evening; it’s a hug in a mug that takes just 45 minutes to make. Rich in flavor with roasted tomatoes and fragrant basil, it’s perfect for cozy family dinners or easy gatherings with friends.

As I ladle the vibrant soup into bowls, I can’t help but think of the countless times I made this recipe with my kids, their laughter echoing in the kitchen as the smell of garlic and tomatoes fills the air. They love to help mix in the fresh basil and even sneak bites of the roasted tomatoes straight from the pan. It’s these memories, wrapped in the comforting aroma of a homemade meal, that make this dish a cherished staple in our home.

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

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A comforting bowl of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup, perfect for chilly evenings. Made with roasted tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil, this soup offers a rich flavor and warmth.

• Author: 02
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Soup
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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• 9 Roma tomatoes, sliced lengthwise
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, minced
• 1 tsp Kosher salt
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• 1 (28 oz.) can San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
• 1 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 2 cups chicken stock
• ⅔ cup heavy cream

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread ripe tomato halves on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
2. Roast the tomatoes for about an hour until caramelized and fragrant. Remove from oven and set aside.
3. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat butter and remaining olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.
4. Stir in minced garlic and thyme, sauté for another minute until fragrant.
5. Add crushed San Marzano tomatoes, fresh basil, and sugar to the pot, then lower heat and let simmer for about 10 minutes.
6. Incorporate roasted tomatoes and chicken stock into the pot and let simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth or blend in batches, then return to pot.
8. Stir in heavy cream and mix until creamy.
9. For homemade croutons, cut bread into cubes, coat with olive oil, diced garlic, and basil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 7 minutes until crispy.
10. Serve the soup hot, garnished with croutons.

Notes

Roast your tomatoes for enhanced sweetness and allow the soup to simmer to deepen flavors. For thicker soup, reduce the chicken stock or add a potato while simmering.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is not only simple to prepare, but it also offers an explosion of flavor that can transport you straight to a sun-drenched Italian piazza. Each spoonful combines the sweetness of roasted tomatoes with the savory depth of garlic and onion, perfectly balanced by a touch of cream. And let’s be honest—what’s better than a warm bowl of soup on a crisp evening, paired with some crunchy homemade croutons? It’s the ultimate in comfort food, and it’s a dish that always brings smiles around the table.

Let’s Cook It Together

Making this soup is an enjoyable process that begins with some easy preparation. Grab your favorite apron, and let’s dive in!

What You’ll Need

• 9 Roma tomatoes, sliced lengthwise
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, minced
• 1 tsp Kosher salt
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• 1 (28 oz.) can San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
• 1 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 2 cups chicken stock
• ⅔ cup heavy cream

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the ripe tomato halves on a baking sheet and drizzle them with olive oil before sprinkling with salt and pepper.
2. Roast the tomatoes in the oven for about an hour until they are caramelized and fragrant. After baking, remove them from the oven and set them aside.
3. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the butter and remaining olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions become translucent.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and thyme, and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
5. Add the crushed San Marzano tomatoes, fresh basil, and sugar to the pot, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
6. Now, incorporate the roasted tomatoes and chicken stock into the pot and let everything simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally as the flavors meld together beautifully.
7. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth, or if you don’t have one, carefully transfer it to a blender in batches. Once puréed, return the soup to the pot.
8. Stir in the heavy cream to make the soup creamy and luscious.
9. For homemade croutons, cut some small pieces of bread into cubes, add olive oil, diced garlic, and basil, and bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 7 minutes until crispy.
10. Serve the soup hot and sprinkle the croutons on top for an added crunch.

Nutrition Values

• Serving size: 1 cup
• Calories: 250
• Protein: 4g
• Carbs: 18g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 2g

Packed with vibrant flavor and nutrients, this recipe nourishes both body and soul while keeping things delightfully light.

Perfect Pairings for This Dish

To make the most of this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup, I love to serve it with a slice of crusty bread or a simple grilled cheese sandwich—it’s like a warm embrace from a beloved family member. For a lighter touch, try a side salad with a citrus vinaigrette that brightens the palate. You could also enjoy it with a glass of red wine, perfect for a cozy evening in.

Keeping It Fresh

If you’re planning on enjoying this soup later, you’ll be happy to know that it keeps well! Simply place leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully—just make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container, where it can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Chef Betty’s Secrets

1. Roasting the tomatoes really enhances their sweetness, so don’t skip this step!
2. Letting the soup simmer allows the flavors to deepen, so be patient during that 30-minute simmer.
3. If you’re looking for a thicker soup, add fewer chicken stock or incorporate a potato while simmering.
4. Feel free to experiment with different herbs like oregano or rosemary for unique flavor profiles.
5. For creamy variations, try using coconut milk or a non-dairy cream substitute.

Creative Twists to Try

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Toss in some cooked quinoa or orzo for added texture and heartiness.
• Replace basil with parsley or cilantro for a fresh twist on the classic flavor.

FAQs

Can I freeze this recipe?
Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

What’s the best substitute for heavy cream?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or make your own creamy version by blending silken tofu with a bit of plant milk until smooth.

How long will this stay fresh?
In the refrigerator, this soup will stay fresh for about 4 days when stored in an airtight container.

Can I double the recipe for meal prep?
Definitely! Doubling the recipe is a great idea, especially if you’re cooking for a crowd or want leftovers for the week. Just make sure your pot is large enough to hold all the ingredients!

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup captures warmth, comfort, and cozy memories all in one bowl, proving that sometimes, the simplest dishes carry the most love. Enjoy every nourishing sip!