Name: Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 lbs ripe tomatoes, halved; 1 large onion, quartered; 6 cloves garlic, peeled; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, packed; 1 teaspoon sugar (optional); 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (optional); Extra olive oil or cream for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.4 from 47 reviews

If you are craving a comforting bowl of warmth that captures the essence of summer in every spoonful, this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe is going to be your new best friend. The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness and deepens the rich flavors of perfectly ripe tomatoes, while fresh basil adds vibrant herbaceous notes that brighten the entire dish. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, this soup transforms humble pantry staples into an elegant, creamy delight that’s equally perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe just right is all about quality ingredients that sing together. Each component plays a crucial role in layering flavor, enriching texture, and painting that gorgeous red hue.

Ripe Tomatoes (2 1/2 lbs, halved): Choose tomatoes that are plump and bright red for the freshest, juiciest base.
Large Onion (1, quartered): Adds sweetness and depth when roasted alongside the tomatoes.
Garlic Cloves (6, peeled): Roasting garlic mellows its pungency into a deliciously soft, buttery note.
Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Helps caramelize the veggies while adding a silky richness.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing and enhancing all the natural flavors.
Vegetable Broth (2 cups): Creates a flavorful liquid base that’s lighter than stock but still robust.
Fresh Basil Leaves (1/2 cup, packed): The star herb that provides a fresh, aromatic pop to the soup.
Sugar (1 teaspoon, optional): A pinch to tame acidity and round out flavors if needed.
Heavy Cream or Coconut Cream (1/2 cup, optional): Adds luscious creaminess for a velvety finish.
Extra Olive Oil or Cream (optional garnish): For that extra touch of luxury when serving.

How to Make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Roast Your Vegetables

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lay your halved tomatoes, quartered onion, and peeled garlic cloves out on a baking sheet. Drizzle everything with olive oil and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Toss them around so every piece is evenly coated. Roasting these ingredients will concentrate their flavors and add a beautiful caramelized note that sets the foundation for this soup.

Step 2: Roast Until Tender and Caramelized

Let those beauties roast for 35 to 40 minutes until the tomatoes soften and start to caramelize, and the onion and garlic become tender and fragrant. This step is where magic happens, transforming raw veggies into something rich and sweet. Once done, remove the pan from the oven and allow the vegetables to cool slightly so they’re easier to handle.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

Transfer the roasted tomatoes, onions, garlic, and all the delicious juices into a large pot or blender. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the fresh basil leaves. Use an immersion blender right in the pot or blend in batches in a regular blender until the soup is smooth and velvety. The basil will infuse its fresh flavor beautifully throughout.

Step 4: Simmer and Adjust Flavors

Place the blended soup over medium heat and let it gently simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. This simmering allows the flavors to meld and deepen even more. Taste your creation and, if the soup feels a bit too tangy, stir in a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity. For a rich and creamy twist, gently fold in heavy cream or coconut cream and heat through without boiling.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve

Before ladling the soup into bowls, give it a final taste test and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This is your moment to make it perfectly yours. Serve it hot, drizzled with a little extra olive oil or cream, and sprinkle with fresh basil leaves for a gorgeous finishing touch.

How to Serve Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Adding garnishes is a simple way to elevate your bowl of roasted tomato basil soup. A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds silkiness and a fruity note, while a swirl of cream brings visual appeal and indulgence. Fresh basil leaves not only boost the aroma but also add a pop of color that makes the soup look irresistible.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with classic comfort choices like a crispy grilled cheese sandwich, perfect for dipping and doubling the cozy factor. For a lighter side, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the soup’s richness beautifully. Crusty bread or garlic toasts are always winners to mop up every last drop.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties or special occasions, serve the soup in small, charming crocks or mini bowls to make individual portions feel special. Top with toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of parmesan for exciting texture contrasts. Another fun idea is to serve it chilled as a refreshing summer gazpacho style by reducing the cream and serving the soup cold with ice-cold basil pesto dollops.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can confidently store any leftover roasted tomato basil soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often develop even more deeply after resting, making reheated soup taste just as fantastic as freshly made.

Freezing

This soup freezes wonderfully, making it a perfect meal prep option. Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Adding a splash of broth or cream when reheating can refresh the texture and flavor beautifully. Avoid boiling to preserve the delicate herb notes and creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes for this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe?

While fresh ripe tomatoes give the best flavor and texture, you can substitute canned whole or crushed tomatoes in a pinch. Just skip the roasting step and simmer them with the other ingredients for a slightly different but still delicious soup.

How can I make this soup vegan?

Simply skip the heavy cream or use coconut cream as a dairy-free alternative for that creamy richness. Make sure your vegetable broth is vegan-friendly, and you’re all set to enjoy a fully plant-based bowl of comfort.

Is it necessary to peel the tomatoes?

Peeling tomatoes is not required in this recipe because roasting softens the skins, and blending breaks them up smoothly. Leaving the skins on adds fiber and nutrients while saving prep time.

What can I add to boost flavor?

A pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat or a splash of balsamic vinegar toward the end of cooking brings a wonderful depth and complexity to the soup. Experiment to find your perfect flavor balance!

Can I make this soup ahead for a party?

Absolutely. This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe is fantastic made a day in advance. Flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it an ideal make-ahead dish. Just warm gently before serving and garnish fresh.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe a try because it offers the perfect balance of simplicity and extraordinary flavor. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl and fits beautifully into any season. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends, this soup demands a spot in your recipe collection for effortless comfort and irresistible taste every single time.