Name: Creamy Roasted Tomato Basil Soup for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 10 whole Roma Tomatoes (can substitute with any tomato type, but Roma is best for roasting); 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil (any oil works if you're out of olive oil); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (substitute with additional olive oil for dairy-free); 1 medium Yellow Onion (shallots can be used for a milder flavor); 4 cloves Garlic (mince for maximum flavor infusion); 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme (substitute with 1.5 teaspoons of dried thyme if fresh isn’t available); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (adjust to taste); 0.5 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper (freshly ground for best flavor); 28 oz San Marzano Tomatoes (whole canned tomatoes work as a substitute); 0.5 cup Fresh Basil (use ¼ cup dried basil in a pinch); 1 teaspoon Sugar (omit if using naturally sweet tomatoes); 4 cups Chicken Stock (opt for vegetable stock for vegetarian version); 0.5 cup Heavy Cream (omit or substitute with coconut milk for dairy-free); 0.5 cup Fresh Basil Leaves (for topping); 1 cup Croutons (use homemade or store-bought)

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On chilly afternoons when comfort food calls, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup. The magic begins when you roast fresh Roma tomatoes, coaxing out their natural sweetness and deep flavors—an essential step that makes this soup a crowd-pleaser. In just 40 minutes, you’ll have a creamy and aromatic soup that adapts beautifully to different diets, effortlessly transitioning from a dairy-laden delight to a comforting vegan option. Imagine spooning up a velvety concoction that warms your soul, perfect for pairing with crusty bread or your favorite grilled cheese sandwich. What twist will you put on this classic favorite to make it your own?

Why is this soup a must-try?

Comforting warmth: This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup wraps you in a cozy embrace on cold days. Versatile adaptations: Easily switch it up for a creamy dairy or a hearty vegan delight! Quick and easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, making it a weeknight favorite. Flavor explosion: The roasted tomatoes elevate the sweetness, perfectly balanced by fresh herbs. Crowd-pleaser: Serve it with grilled cheese or crusty bread for a winning meal! For another delightful comfort food, check out my Potato Bacon Soup.

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Ingredients

• Warm up your kitchen with these.

For the Soup

Roma Tomatoes – The star of the dish, offering sweet, robust flavor; can substitute any tomato type, but Roma is best for roasting.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Richens the soup and helps the tomatoes roast beautifully; any oil will work if you’re out of olive oil.
Unsalted Butter – Adds a luxurious, velvety texture; swap for additional olive oil if you’re going dairy-free.
Yellow Onion – Provides depth and sweetness upon sautéing; shallots can be used for a milder flavor alternative.
Garlic Cloves – Boosts the soup’s aroma and depth; mince them for maximum flavor infusion.
Fresh Thyme – Elevates the savory profile; substitute with 1.5 teaspoons of dried thyme if fresh isn’t available.
Kosher Salt – Essential for enhancing all flavors; adjust to taste to prevent over seasoning.
Ground Black Pepper – Adds warmth and a slight kick; freshly ground offers the best flavor experience.
San Marzano Tomatoes (28 oz. can) – Introduces body and enhances sweetness; whole canned tomatoes work as an acceptable substitute.
Fresh Basil – Imparts freshness and aromatic notes; use ¼ cup dried basil in a pinch, but fresh is best for this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup.
Sugar – Helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes; feel free to omit if using naturally sweet tomatoes.
Chicken Stock – Deepens the flavor profile; opt for vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.
Heavy Cream – Indicates richness and creaminess; omit or substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

Optional Garnishes

Fresh Basil Leaves – A beautiful, aromatic topping; adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Croutons – Perfect for adding a delightful crunch; use homemade or store-bought for convenience.

This treasure trove of ingredients lays the foundation for an unforgettable bowl of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup—one that will surely keep you cozy on those chilly nights!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will prepare a warm environment for roasting the tomatoes, ensuring they develop that sweet, caramelized flavor essential for the Roasted Tomato Basil Soup. Preheating helps in cooking them evenly, allowing their juices to concentrate beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes
While the oven warms, take your Roma tomatoes and slice them in half lengthwise. Lay the halved tomatoes, cut side up, on a baking sheet. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, and sprinkle with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance their natural flavors. This preparation will make the tomatoes irresistible once roasted.

Step 3: Roast the Tomatoes
Place the prepared baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the tomatoes for about 1 hour, or until they are tender and slightly charred. Keep an eye on them; they should turn into colorful, flavorful gems that will form the base of your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup, concentrating their sweetness as they cook.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil or unsalted butter over medium heat. Once shimmering, add chopped yellow onion, and sauté for about 5 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Next, add minced garlic and fresh thyme, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. This aromatic base is the heart of your soup.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
With the aromatics ready, stir in the crushed San Marzano tomatoes and fresh basil. Add sugar if you wish to balance the acidity, then allow the mixture to simmer gently for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. This step prepares your soup for the crowning glory—the roasted tomatoes.

Step 6: Add Roasted Tomatoes and Stock
Now it’s time to stir in the roasted tomatoes along with their juices, followed by the chicken stock or vegetable stock for a vegetarian version. Let the soup simmer for another 30 minutes, allowing it to thicken and all the flavors to blend for your comforting Roasted Tomato Basil Soup.

Step 7: Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until you reach your desired texture, whether smooth or chunky. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup to a traditional blender in batches. This creamy blending creates the comforting base of your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup that you crave.

Step 8: Finish and Serve
Finally, stir in the heavy cream for an extra touch of richness, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and croutons for a delightful crunch, making it the perfect cozy meal for any chilly night.

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Variations

Feel free to explore your culinary creativity with these delightful variations that take this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup to new heights!

Roasted Garlic:
Roast a head of garlic alongside the tomatoes for added depth and sweetness. The mellow, buttery flavor of roasted garlic will elevate your soup experience.
Spicy Twist:
Add crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic to introduce a lovely kick. This fiery twist brilliantly complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Creamy Vegan Option:
Swap heavy cream for coconut milk for a dairy-free version that doesn’t lose its creamy texture. The subtle coconut flavor will bring a different, tropical vibe to your soup.
Herby Boost:
Mix in a tablespoon of fresh oregano along with thyme for an aromatic upgrade. This additional herb will deepen the flavor complexity and give an Italian flair.
Cheesy Addition:
Stir in grated Parmesan or a dollop of cream cheese for a rich, cheesy base. This variation creates a comforting, umami-packed hug in a bowl.
Heartier Meal:
Toss in leftover rotisserie chicken or chickpeas as a protein boost, turning your soup into a filling meal. This makes for a quick and satisfying dinner, without extra fuss!
Flavorful Garnish:
Top your soup with a swirl of pesto for a burst of flavor and color. Homemade or store-bought, the pesto brings freshness that brightens the overall dish beautifully.
Substituting Broth:
Use mushroom stock instead of chicken or vegetable stock for an earthy depth. This alternative adds complexity without sacrificing the beloved comfort feeling you crave in your soup.

This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is versatile enough to accommodate different dietary needs and flavor preferences. Each adjustment can make it uniquely yours! For more comforting options, don’t forget to check out my Sausage Tortellini Soup and Shepherd’s Pie Soup.

Expert Tips for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Perfect Roasting Time: Make sure to roast the tomatoes for a full hour to enhance their sweetness fully. Rushing this step leads to a less flavorful Roasted Tomato Basil Soup.
Fresh Herbs Matter: Fresh basil elevates the soup’s flavor. If using dried basil, add it during simmering to maximize aroma and taste.
Blending Techniques: Use an immersion blender for a smooth texture directly in the pot. If using a traditional blender, blend in small batches to avoid burns.
Adjusting Consistency: If the soup seems too thick, add stock or water gradually until you achieve the desired creaminess.
Make-ahead Advantage: Roasted tomatoes can be prepared a day in advance. Store in the fridge, and combine them with the other ingredients for a speedy soup on busy nights!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup in advance is a fantastic way to save time and ensure a delicious meal during busy weeknights! You can roast the tomatoes up to 24 hours ahead of time; simply complete the roasting step and cool them completely before refrigerating. Additionally, you can chop the onions and garlic a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, just sauté the aromatics, add the prepped ingredients, and simmer as directed. This not only saves precious time but ensures your soup is just as vibrant and comforting when it’s time to serve!

What to Serve with Ultimate Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Elevate your cozy meal with delicious pairings that enhance the comforting flavors of this delightful soup.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The melty, savory layers of cheese between crispy bread create a nostalgic dipper for the creamy soup.
Crusty Bread: A hearty baguette or sourdough bread provides a satisfying crunch and perfect vessel for scooping every last bite.
Caesar Salad: The crispy romaine and tangy dressing offer a refreshing contrast to the rich, velvety texture of the soup.
Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery, and fragrant, this classic side amplifies the Italian flavors, making each bowl of soup even more inviting.
Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables add a medley of textures and nutrients that complement the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil highlight the soup’s flavors; a drizzle of balsamic glaze brings a tangy finish.
Pesto Pasta: Tossed with a spoonful of vibrant pesto, pasta turns into a delightful side that pairs beautifully with the thick soup.
Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay enhances the meal with its crisp acidity, perfectly balancing the soup’s creamy richness.
Chocolate Cake: For a sweet finish, a slice of rich chocolate cake offers a delightful contrast, bringing a smile to any table after cozy soup.

How to Store and Freeze Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Fridge: Store leftover Roasted Tomato Basil Soup in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of stock if the soup thickens.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portioned airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat frozen soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add extra stock or water to reach your desired consistency while warming.

Make-Ahead Tip: If you make a big batch, consider storing roasted tomatoes separately, allowing you to blend and finish the soup just before serving!

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe tomatoes for roasting?
Absolutely! When selecting tomatoes, look for firm, vibrant Roma tomatoes that are slightly soft to the touch. Avoid those with dark spots all over or blemishes. If you’re ever in doubt, opt for other varieties like vine-ripened or heirloom, but Romans will give you the best sweetness and results when roasted.

How should I store leftover Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?
To keep your delicious soup fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. When reheating, make sure to do so gently on the stove, adding a splash of stock if you find it’s thickened up too much. It’s a real treat to enjoy for lunch or a cozy dinner!

Can I freeze Roasted Tomato Basil Soup?
Yes, indeed! You can freeze this comforting soup in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze in individual portions. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove, stirring in a little extra stock or water if needed to get that perfect creamy consistency.

What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If you find your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is thicker than you’d like, no worries! Simply add more stock or some water gradually while stirring until you reach your ideal consistency. A little extra chicken stock doubles the flavor and helps soften the texture without losing that creamy goodness.

Is this soup safe for my pet?
While this soup is packed with delicious flavors for humans, be cautious about sharing it with pets, especially those sensitive to garlic or onion. If your furry friend snags a spoonful, watch for any unusual reactions, as it’s always best to stick to pet-friendly meals for their health and safety.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Very easily! To adapt your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup to a dairy-free version, simply omit the heavy cream entirely or substitute it with coconut milk or any other non-dairy milk of your choice. The soup will still be rich and comforting while fitting into a dairy-free diet perfectly!