The aroma of roasted tomatoes filled my kitchen, beckoning me to whisk away the chill of the day with a comforting bowl of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup. This dish combines the rich, caramelized notes of oven-roasted tomatoes with the bright freshness of basil, creating a vegetarian favorite that’s both creamy and satisfying. The best part? Preparation takes only about 40 minutes, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner alongside a gooey grilled cheese. Whether you’re looking to reinvent a classic comfort food or simply yearning for a warm hug in a bowl, you’ll find joy in every spoonful. What’s your favorite way to enjoy tomato soup?
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Why is Tomato Basil Soup So Beloved?
Comfort Food Redefined: This soup is a warm embrace on a chilly day, with rich roasted tomatoes creating a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
Easy Preparation: In just 40 minutes, you’ll whip up a dish that’s not only quick but incredibly satisfying; perfect for those busy weeknights.
Creamy Texture: The addition of heavy cream gives it a luxurious finish, elevating a simple tomato soup into a decadent experience.
Versatile Pairing: Enjoy it with classic grilled cheese for a nostalgic meal, or serve it alongside a fresh garden salad for a light lunch option.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze portions for lazy days. Explore more soups like our Cajun Potato Soup or Chicken Orzo Soup for delightful variety!
Tomato Basil Soup Ingredients
• To create your delectable Tomato Basil Soup, gather these essential ingredients!
For the Soup Base
• Roma Tomatoes – Ideal for roasting, they bring a rich flavor to your soup.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Enhances the taste and richness; a neutral oil can work in a pinch.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds a creamy richness; opt for olive oil for a dairy-free alternative.
• Yellow Onion – Offers sweetness and depth; shallots can be an excellent, milder swap.
• Garlic Cloves – Fresh garlic is best for robust flavor; jarred works in a hurry.
• Fresh Thyme – Provides herbal notes; dried thyme can be substituted, but reduce to 1.5 teaspoons.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement; sea salt or table salt can be substituted.
• Ground Black Pepper – Adds a hint of heat; adjust to your preference.
For the Tomato Mixture
• San Marzano Tomatoes (Canned) – Renowned for their superior taste; any quality canned tomatoes can substitute.
• Fresh Basil – Infuses bright, refreshing flavor; if dried, use ¼ cup in place.
• Sugar – Helps balance the acidity of tomatoes, though it's optional based on taste.
• Chicken Stock – Provides depth; vegetable stock keeps it vegetarian.
For Creaminess
• Heavy Cream – Delivers a delightful silky texture; swap with whole milk or half-and-half for a lighter option, or omit for a dairy-free version.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting the Roma tomatoes, ensuring they develop that rich, caramelized flavor that will be the foundation of your roasted tomato basil soup. As the oven warms up, gather your baking sheet and prepare for the next steps.
Step 2: Prepare Tomatoes
While the oven heats, slice the ripe Roma tomatoes in half and lay them cut-side up on the baking sheet. Drizzle them generously with extra virgin olive oil, and season with a sprinkle of kosher salt and ground black pepper. The seasoning will enhance their natural sweetness and flavor, so make sure to coat them evenly.
Step 3: Roast
Place the seasoned tomatoes in the preheated oven and allow them to roast for about 1 hour. They will soften and caramelize, turning a lovely deep red and releasing their sweet aroma. Check occasionally to ensure they are not burning, as you want them to be tender and flavorful for your soup.
Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the diced yellow onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it turns translucent. Then, add minced garlic and fresh thyme, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Now, add the crushed San Marzano tomatoes, chopped fresh basil, and a pinch of sugar to the pot. Stir everything together and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes. This step will allow the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a savory base for your roasted tomato basil soup.
Step 6: Add Roasted Tomatoes
After the tomatoes have roasted and cooled slightly, incorporate them into the pot along with the chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for 20–30 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen. The roasted tomatoes should blend in beautifully, imparting their sweetness throughout the soup.
Step 7: Blend
Once the soup is simmered, it's time to blend it to your desired consistency. Use an immersion blender directly in the pot for a smooth creamy texture, or carefully transfer batches to a standard blender. Blend until the soup is velvety and well combined, ensuring all those scrumptious flavors are unified.
Step 8: Finalize
To finish your roasted tomato basil soup, stir in the heavy cream, which adds that luxurious rich texture. Allow the soup to heat through for an additional minute, and then serve it hot. Enjoy each comforting bowl with your favorite accompaniments like crusty bread or a gooey grilled cheese for a delightful meal.
What to Serve with Ultimate Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Savoring a bowl of this creamy delight opens up a world of vibrant flavors and comforting textures, perfect for a complete meal experience.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The gooey, melted cheese and crispy bread create a nostalgic pairing that complements the richness of the soup.
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for dipping; its texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup, enhancing each bite.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterbalance to the warm soup's depth and richness.
- Mini Croutons: Homemade or store-bought, crunchy croutons add delightful texture, making every spoonful even more enjoyable.
- Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring an earthy, savory element to your meal, adding both nutrition and flavor complexity.
- White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully, its crispness cutting through the soup's richness and enhancing the basil's brightness.
- Basil Pesto Toast: Spread some fresh basil pesto on toasted baguette slices; it’s a burst of flavor that echoes the soup’s freshness and tang.
- Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light lemon sorbet cleanses the palate beautifully after the creamy tomato soup. Its brightness will leave you feeling refreshed!
- Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Soft and buttery, these biscuits will be a perfect accompaniment for soaking up the soup while adding warm, savory notes.
- Chardonnay: A warm glass of Chardonnay, with its buttery finish, can deepen the comforting experience, enhancing the flavors of the soup perfectly.
Expert Tips for Tomato Basil Soup
- Ingredient Quality: Use fresh, ripe Roma tomatoes for the best flavor. Quality ingredients will make your tomato basil soup shine.
- Roasting Time: Don’t rush the roasting; 1 hour helps caramelize the tomatoes, enhancing their natural sweetness for a richer soup.
- Blend Smoothly: If using a standard blender, let the soup cool slightly to avoid hot splatters. An immersion blender is great for convenience.
- Dairy Alternatives: For a lighter soup, consider using whole milk instead of heavy cream. Just know this will change the richness slightly.
- Seasoning Adjustments: Taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasoning. Sometimes a touch more salt or sugar can elevate the flavors beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
These Roasted Tomato Basil Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can roast the Roma tomatoes up to 24 hours in advance, allowing them to cool before transferring to an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can sauté the onion, garlic, and thyme mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, on the day you plan to serve your tomato basil soup, simply combine the stored sautéed aromatics, roasted tomatoes, and chicken stock in a pot. Heat through, blend, and stir in the heavy cream for just as delicious results with minimal effort. Enjoy your quick, comforting bowl of soup!
Tomato Basil Soup Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful Tomato Basil Soup and make it uniquely yours!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a rich and creamy texture without dairy.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sautéing step for a gentle heat that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
- Roasted Garlic Twist: Roast a whole head of garlic with the tomatoes; it infuses a sweet, savory richness that elevates the entire dish.
- Herb Mix: Experiment by blending in other fresh herbs like oregano or parsley alongside the basil for a new flavor profile.
- Creamy Avocado: Serve a dollop of mashed avocado on top of your soup for a creamy texture and nutrient boost.
- Nutty Flavor: Toss in a handful of toasted pine nuts before blending for a delightful crunch and depth.
- Protein-Packed: Add shredded rotisserie chicken or cannellini beans for a heartier soup that’s perfect for an entire meal.
- Chilled Soup: In summer, enjoy this soup cold for a refreshing gazpacho-inspired take, perfect with crusty bread.
Each of these variations adds a bit of creativity to your kitchen, making this Tomato Basil Soup a canvas for your culinary imagination. Don’t forget to share your favorite combinations and indulge in the deliciousness! For more soup inspirations, check out our comforting Red Pepper Tomato or hearty Lasagna Soup Warm recipes.
How to Store and Freeze Tomato Basil Soup
Fridge: Store your Tomato Basil Soup in an airtight container for up to 1 week, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish multiple times throughout the week.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 2 months. Store in freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring you leave some space for expansion.
Thawing: To defrost, move the soup to the fridge for an overnight thaw, or place it in a bowl of cold water for a quicker option before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of stock or water if it thickens too much after freezing, keeping that creamy texture intact.
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of tomatoes are best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Roma tomatoes are ideal due to their low moisture content and rich flavor, making them perfect for roasting. However, if they're unavailable, you can use other varieties like vine-ripened or plum tomatoes, but you may need to adjust the roasting time slightly.
How do I store the leftover soup?
You can store your Tomato Basil Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. This makes it easy to enjoy the comforting flavors multiple times throughout the week. Just let it cool completely before sealing it to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Can I freeze Tomato Basil Soup?
Yes! For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. It can keep well for up to 2 months. Just remember to leave some space for expansion as it freezes, and label the containers with the date.
What’s the best way to reheat frozen soup?
To defrost, move the soup to the fridge for an overnight thaw, or place it in a bowl of cold water for a quicker option. When ready to reheat, do so gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much after freezing, you can add a splash of stock or water to achieve your desired creamy texture again.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Very! Simply omit the heavy cream and replace it with additional olive oil or a dairy-free cream substitute. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to keep the soup entirely vegetarian. Just keep in mind that while it will still be delicious, the flavor profile may be a bit different.
How can I prevent the soup from being too acidic?
If you find your Tomato Basil Soup a bit too acidic, you can balance it by adding a pinch of sugar, which helps to counteract the acidity of the tomatoes. Additionally, using ripe tomatoes will also help create a sweeter, more balanced flavor.
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup – Easy Comfort Food Bliss
Equipment
- Oven
- Pot
- Baking Sheet
- Immersion Blender
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 8 medium Roma Tomatoes Ideal for roasting
- 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Enhances flavor
- 1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter Adds creaminess
- 1 medium Yellow Onion Offers sweetness
- 4 cloves Garlic Cloves Fresh is best
- 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme Provides herbal notes
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Essential for flavor
- ½ teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Adjust to taste
For the Tomato Mixture
- 28 ounces San Marzano Tomatoes (Canned) Renowned for taste
- 1 cup Fresh Basil Infuses flavor
- 1 teaspoon Sugar Balances acidity
- 3 cups Chicken Stock Can use vegetable stock
For Creaminess
- 1 cup Heavy Cream Delivers silky texture
Instructions
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the Roma tomatoes in half and lay them cut-side up on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Roast the tomatoes in the preheated oven for about 1 hour until soft and caramelized.
- In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and thyme, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add crushed San Marzano tomatoes, basil, and sugar to the pot. Stir and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Incorporate the roasted tomatoes and chicken stock, simmering for 20–30 minutes.
- Blend the soup to your desired consistency, using an immersion blender or a standard blender.
- Stir in the heavy cream and heat through before serving hot.
