Is there anything more comforting than a warm bowl of homemade soup on a chilly evening? For me, the answer is always no. Growing up, tomato soup was the ultimate cozy meal—always served with a grilled cheese sandwich and plenty of laughter at the dinner table. But as I got older and started experimenting in the kitchen, I discovered something magical: roasting the tomatoes before making soup.
That one extra step transforms an ordinary tomato soup into something extraordinary. The roasting process caramelizes the natural sugars in the tomatoes, deepens their flavor, and creates a rich, slightly smoky base that pairs beautifully with fragrant basil. The result? A creamy, flavor-packed Roasted Tomato Basil Soup that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner, a make-ahead meal prep option, or the perfect starter for a dinner party, this soup ticks all the boxes. It’s simple, versatile, customizable, and absolutely delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
- Rich Flavor – Roasting intensifies the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Simple Ingredients – Pantry staples + fresh produce = magic.
- Customizable – Make it creamy, vegan, spicy, or even low-carb.
- Meal Prep Friendly – Stores well in the fridge and freezer.
- Comfort Food Classic – The perfect companion to grilled cheese or crusty bread.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything required for this delicious soup, along with why each ingredient matters:
- 2 lbs (1 kg) Roma tomatoes, halved – Roma tomatoes are meaty, less watery, and roast beautifully.
- 1 large onion, finely chopped – Adds savory depth and natural sweetness.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced – A must for bold flavor.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided – Enhances roasting and sautéing.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – Simple seasoning that brings balance.
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth – Use vegetable broth for a vegan version.
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped – The star herb for freshness and aroma.
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional) – Balances acidity if tomatoes are too tangy.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda (optional) – Neutralizes extra acidity.
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional) – For luxurious creaminess.
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish – A final touch that makes it pop.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Roast the Tomatoes
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place halved tomatoes on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle with 2 tbsp olive oil, season with salt & pepper.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes until soft and caramelized.
👉 Pro Tip: Don’t skip this step! Roasting transforms the tomatoes into sweet, flavor-packed gems.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot.
- Add chopped onion and garlic.
- Cook until translucent (5–7 minutes).
- Let them caramelize slightly for extra sweetness.
3. Build the Soup
- Add roasted tomatoes and broth to the pot.
- Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in chopped basil, sugar (if using), and baking soda (if using).
- Blend with an immersion blender (or in batches using a countertop blender) until smooth.
4. Make It Creamy (Optional)
- Return soup to the pot.
- Stir in heavy cream.
- Cook another 5 minutes until heated through.
5. Taste & Serve
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve hot with your favorite side.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is so versatile that it pairs with just about anything. Some favorites include:
- 🥪 Grilled Cheese Sandwich – The ultimate classic combo.
- 🥖 Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread – Perfect for dipping.
- 🥗 Fresh Salad – Balance richness with greens.
- 🥔 Roasted Vegetables – Makes a hearty, full meal.
- 🧀 Cheese Toasts or Croutons – Add crunch and flavor.
Variations to Try
- Creamy Version – Add more heavy cream or mascarpone cheese.
- Vegan Version – Use veggie broth and swap cream for coconut milk or cashew cream.
- Spicy Version – Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or roasted chili peppers.
- Low-Carb Version – Blend in roasted zucchini or bell peppers.
- Herb Variations – Try oregano, thyme, or rosemary instead of basil.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Soup
- Choose Ripe Tomatoes – The riper, the sweeter.
- Roast Long Enough – Wait for slight caramelization for max flavor.
- Balance Acidity – Use sugar or baking soda if needed.
- Use a High-Powered Blender – Ensures silky smooth soup.
- Don’t Overdo the Basil – Too much can overpower.
Storage & Freezing
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Cool completely, store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add extra broth if too thick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?
Yes! Use whole or crushed canned tomatoes. You won’t get the same roasted flavor, but it still works well.
2. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add chili flakes, cayenne, or even a roasted jalapeño while blending.
3. Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely—use vegetable broth and coconut or cashew cream instead of dairy cream.
4. How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 4 days in a sealed container.
5. Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
6. Do I have to peel the tomatoes?
Not necessary—blending makes the skins disappear. But peel if you want a super-smooth texture.
7. What can I substitute for basil?
Oregano, thyme, or parsley also taste great.
8. Can I make it without cream?
Yes—it’s still delicious without cream. You can also use milk or half-and-half.
9. What’s the best bread to serve with this soup?
Sourdough, ciabatta, or a cheesy garlic baguette.
10. How can I make it more filling?
Add cooked pasta, rice, lentils, or roasted chickpeas.
Nutrition (Per Serving – 6 servings)
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 720mg
(Values vary based on ingredients and cream usage.)
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Conclusion
This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is proof that simple ingredients can create big, bold flavors. The roasting step transforms everyday tomatoes into something magical, while fresh basil and a touch of cream bring balance and comfort.
Whether you serve it with grilled cheese on a rainy day, pack it for work lunches, or prepare it as a dinner-party starter, this soup is guaranteed to impress.
👉 Try it once, and it just might become your go-to tomato soup recipe. Don’t forget to rate, comment, and share your version—I’d love to hear how it turns out!
