If you’re craving a bowl of comfort that wraps you in warmth and vibrant flavor, look no further than this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup. There is something truly magical about roasting roma tomatoes until they caramelize, then blending them with fresh basil, a touch of cream, and savory herbs to create a soup that is both rich and refreshing. This dish brings a beautiful balance of sweetness, tang, and fresh herbal notes, making it the perfect cozy meal whether you’re entertaining friends or simply treating yourself on a chilly afternoon.

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to ensuring your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup turns out sunny, flavorful, and comforting. Each ingredient not only adds its own taste but also brings depth and texture to the final bowl.

9 Roma tomatoes: These tomatoes roast beautifully, developing deep, sweet flavors that form the soup’s hearty base.
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps the tomatoes roast evenly for a caramelized finish.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Brings a silky texture and subtle creaminess when sautéing the aromatics.
1 yellow onion, diced: Provides a natural sweetness and fullness once softened and cooked down.
4 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the soup with a fragrant warmth that perfectly complements the tomatoes.
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, minced: Offers an earthy, herbal touch that amplifies the flavor complexity.
1 teaspoon Kosher salt: Balances the natural acidity and intensifies the taste.
½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds subtle heat and a little bite to keep things lively.
1 28 oz. can San Marzano tomatoes, crushed: For a robust tomato punch and added richness in the broth.
1 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped: Bursts with fragrant freshness that lifts the whole soup.
1 tablespoon sugar: Cuts through acidity and enhances the roasted tomato sweetness.
2 cups chicken stock: Creates a flavorful liquid base; you can substitute vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.
⅔ cup heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess and smooth finish for a truly comforting bowl.

How to Make Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with your sliced roma tomatoes, cut side up. Drizzle generously with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Roasting concentrates their natural sugars and gives a smoky depth that fresh tomatoes just can’t match. Let them roast for a full hour until golden and bursting with flavor—this is the heart of your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

While the tomatoes work their magic in the oven, warm a mixture of butter or oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced yellow onions and sauté them until they soften and turn translucent, about five minutes. Next, add in the garlic and fresh thyme with a pinch of salt and pepper, cooking just long enough for the aromas to burst forth, about one minute. This fragrant base builds layers of taste that you’ll savor in every spoonful.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients and Simmer

Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Pour the crushed San Marzano tomatoes into the pot, stir in the chopped fresh basil and sugar to balance acidity. Lower the heat and let this mixture simmer for about ten minutes, allowing the flavors to mellow and meld beautifully.

Step 4: Add Roasted Tomatoes and Stock

Carefully add the roasted tomatoes along with their juices and the chicken stock to the pot. Give everything a gentle stir and let it simmer for 30 minutes. This slow cooking infusion lets the roasted tomato essence marry with the stock and herbs for that signature rich soup base.

Step 5: Purée and Finish with Cream

Using an immersion blender or transferring carefully in batches to a blender, purée the soup until silky smooth but still hearty. Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream for a luscious, velvety finish that is utterly indulgent.

How to Serve Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Garnishes

Adding garnishes transforms this soup from cozy and comforting to truly special. Mini croutons tossed with olive oil, diced garlic, and basil, toasted until golden, give a satisfying crunch. A drizzle of extra cream or a few fresh basil leaves on top can also add that finishing touch that makes every spoonful a delight.

Side Dishes

A bowl of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for dipping. Fresh green salad or roasted vegetables also complement the tangy, creamy soup beautifully making for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Roasted Tomato Basil Soup in rustic, chunky mugs or elegant bowls, depending on the mood. For a playful twist, hollow out a small bread bowl for an edible serving vessel. Garnishing with a sprinkle of parmesan or a swirl of pesto can elevate the presentation, turning simple soup into a standout dish worthy of company.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps its flavor beautifully when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Let it cool completely before refrigerating, and always reheat gently to maintain that creamy texture and rich flavor.

Freezing

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup freezes wonderfully, making it a perfect make-ahead option. Store it in freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of space for expansion, and it will keep well for up to three months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

Warm your soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Adding a splash of extra stock or cream during reheating can bring back that freshly made creaminess. Avoid boiling to preserve the delicate flavors and textures.

FAQs

Can I make this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken stock for high-quality vegetable stock, and the soup remains just as flavorful and comforting.

What is the best tomato to use for roasting?

Roma tomatoes are ideal for roasting because of their dense flesh and low moisture content, which caramelizes beautifully in the oven.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

While fresh basil offers the brightest, most vibrant flavor, you can substitute dried basil at about one-third the amount. However, adding some fresh basil at the end will really boost freshness.

Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or your favorite plant-based cream alternative for a creamy, yet dairy-free, version of the soup.

How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?

If your soup is thinner than you’d like, simmer it a bit longer uncovered to reduce liquids, or whisk in a small amount of cornstarch dissolved in cold water to thicken without altering flavor.

Final Thoughts

Making this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is like creating a warm hug in a bowl. Its soothing flavors and creamy texture make it the ultimate comfort food for any day. I can’t recommend enough putting this classic recipe on your regular rotation—you’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients transform into such a delightful masterpiece. So, grab those ripe roma tomatoes and start roasting; your taste buds will thank you!