Creamy Roasted Tomato Soup with Basil

Creamy Roasted Tomato Soup with Basil is the ultimate comfort dish, blending the deep, caramelized flavors of oven-roasted tomatoes and garlic with fresh basil and a swirl of cream. It’s rich, silky, and packed with warmth—perfect for chilly nights or as a flavorful starter to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold, Roasted Flavor: Roasting the tomatoes and garlic brings out their natural sweetness and depth.
• Creamy and Smooth: A touch of cream gives the soup a luxurious texture.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and fresh herbs.
• Perfectly Balanced: Sweet, savory, and herbaceous with just the right hint of richness.
• Easy to Make Ahead: Even better the next day after the flavors meld.

Ingredients

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

• 3 pounds Roma or plum tomatoes, halved
• 1 large yellow onion, quartered
• 1 head of garlic, top sliced off
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to taste)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Arrange the vegetables: Place tomatoes (cut-side up), onion quarters, and garlic head on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Roast for 40–45 minutes, or until tomatoes are blistered and caramelized and garlic is soft.
4. Transfer roasted vegetables to a blender. Squeeze the garlic cloves out of their skins and discard skins. Blend until smooth (in batches if necessary).
5. Pour the mixture into a pot over medium heat. Stir in the vegetable broth and smoked paprika. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10–15 minutes.
6. Stir in cream and basil, and simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning; add sugar if the soup is too acidic.
7. Serve hot, optionally garnished with more basil or a swirl of cream.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Vegan-Friendly: Swap cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat.
• Cheesy Finish: Stir in grated Parmesan or top with crumbled feta.
• Roasted Pepper Boost: Add roasted red bell pepper to the blend for a smoky twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze without cream for up to 3 months. Add cream when reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, canned whole or crushed tomatoes can be used when fresh ones are out of season. Roasting is skipped in this version, so you may sauté the onion and garlic for flavor.

Do I need to peel the tomatoes?

No, blending after roasting makes the skins virtually disappear. If you prefer a super smooth soup, you can strain it.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely. Use a plant-based cream or coconut milk instead of heavy cream.

What’s the best type of cream to use?

Heavy cream or half-and-half works best. You can also use sour cream for a tangier version.

How can I thicken the soup?

Simmer a bit longer uncovered to reduce liquid, or add a cooked potato to the blender for natural thickening.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check any store-bought broth to be sure.

Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze it without the cream. Add the cream when reheating.

What can I serve with this soup?

Grilled cheese, crusty bread, a green salad, or garlic croutons make perfect companions.

Can I use dried basil?

Fresh basil is preferred for vibrant flavor, but you can use 1 teaspoon of dried basil if fresh isn’t available.

How do I tone down the acidity?

A small amount of sugar or a pinch of baking soda can balance overly tangy tomatoes.

Conclusion

Creamy Roasted Tomato Soup with Basil is a cozy, satisfying dish that brings out the best in simple ingredients. Whether you’re making it as a quick weeknight meal or prepping ahead for a comforting lunch, this recipe delivers warmth, depth, and freshness in every spoonful.

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