Roasted tomato basil soup has a way of instantly warming me from the inside out, especially on those crisp autumn evenings. I remember the first time I tried making it, not knowing what to expect, but the aroma that filled my kitchen as the tomatoes roasted was pure magic. This easy roasted tomato basil soup recipe is my go-to because it delivers such a rich, deep tomato flavor, far beyond what you get from a can. Roasting the tomatoes and garlic first transforms them, bringing out their natural sweetness and a hint of smokiness that makes this tomato basil soup from roasted tomatoes truly unforgettable. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Get ready to fall in love with this incredible soup! Here’s why it’s a winner:

Incredible Flavor: Roasting the tomatoes and garlic brings out a deep, sweet, and slightly smoky flavor that’s simply divine.
Quick Prep Time: You can have this easy roasted tomato basil soup ready from start to finish in just over an hour, with minimal hands-on work.
Packed with Goodness: Tomatoes are full of antioxidants, and with fresh basil and healthy fats, it’s a nourishing choice.
Budget-Friendly: Using simple, fresh ingredients makes this a wonderfully economical meal.
Family Favorite: The smooth texture and comforting taste make this easy roasted tomato basil soup a hit with everyone, even picky eaters.
Versatile: It’s perfect as a light lunch with a sandwich or a starter for a more elaborate meal.
Aromatic Experience: The smell of roasting tomatoes and simmering soup will fill your home with pure comfort.

Ingredients for Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Gather these simple ingredients for a truly delicious soup experience. Roasting the vegetables is key to developing that deep, rich flavor we’re after. You’ll need:

6 Ripe Roma Tomatoes – quartered for even roasting
4 cloves Garlic Cloves – halved, for sweet, mellow garlic flavor
2 tablespoons Olive Oil – divided, for roasting and sautéing
Salt to taste – essential for bringing out flavors
Pepper to taste – freshly ground is best
1 medium Yellow Onion – chopped, for a sweet aromatic base
1 medium Carrot – chopped, adds a touch of sweetness and body
4 cups Vegetable or Chicken Broth – the liquid foundation for our soup
1 cup Fresh Basil Leaves – the star herb that gives this soup its signature bright, fresh taste
1/2 cup Heavy Cream or Coconut Milk (optional) – for a luxurious, creamy finish
1 tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar – to balance and brighten the flavors

How to Make Oven Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Quarter your ripe Roma tomatoes and toss them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, a good pinch of salt, and some freshly ground pepper right on the baking sheet. Spread them out in a single layer so they roast beautifully.
Step 3: Halve the garlic cloves, wrap them loosely in foil with a tiny drizzle of oil, and nestle them amongst the tomatoes on the baking sheet. This little trick steams the garlic, making it wonderfully tender and sweet.
Step 4: Roast everything for about 25 minutes. You’re looking for the tomatoes to soften and get those lovely caramelized edges, and the garlic to be super tender. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is just heavenly!
Step 5: While those veggies work their magic, warm another 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Step 6: Toss in your chopped yellow onion and carrot. Sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. You’ll start to smell that sweet oniony goodness.
Step 7: Pour in the 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth. As you add it, scrape up any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot – that’s pure flavor! Bring the broth to a gentle simmer, then turn the heat down to low, cover the pot, and let those aromatics meld.
Step 8: Carefully add the roasted tomatoes and their juices, along with the tender roasted garlic, into the pot with the broth. Stir gently to combine everything. This is where the magic of learning how to make roasted tomato basil soup really starts to show.
Step 9: Let the soup simmer on low heat for another 10 minutes. This short simmering time allows all those wonderful roasted flavors to deepen and marry perfectly.
Step 10: Now it’s time to blend! Carefully transfer the hot soup to a blender in batches, or use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Blend until it’s wonderfully smooth and velvety. Remember to be cautious of the hot steam! This step is crucial for that luxurious texture in your oven roasted tomato basil soup.
Step 11: Return the blended soup to the pot and warm it gently over low heat.
Step 12: Stir in the 1 cup of fresh basil leaves and the optional heavy cream or coconut milk. The basil will wilt quickly, releasing its bright, fresh aroma.
Step 13: Taste your masterpiece! Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. A splash of balsamic vinegar can really make the tomato flavor pop, so add it if you feel it needs that extra zing. You’re now a pro at how to make roasted tomato basil soup!
Step 14: Ladle this glorious soup into bowls and serve immediately. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Rich Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup - Roasted Tomato Basil Soup - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

To elevate your homemade soup from good to absolutely amazing, follow these insider tips:

Don’t rush the roasting process; slightly caramelized edges on the tomatoes are key to that deep flavor.
Use the best quality tomatoes you can find; ripe, flavorful tomatoes make all the difference.
For an extra layer of flavor, roast a whole head of garlic alongside the tomatoes.
Taste and adjust seasoning frequently. A little extra salt or a splash of balsamic can transform the soup.

What’s the secret to perfect oven roasted tomato basil soup?

The real magic lies in roasting the tomatoes and garlic. This process concentrates their natural sugars and creates a sweet, smoky depth that you just can’t achieve by simply simmering them. Roasting tomatoes for soup caramelizes their sugars, intensifying their flavor beautifully. For more on the benefits of roasting vegetables, check out this guide to vegetable gardening.

Can I make roasted tomato basil soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can roast the vegetables and make the soup base up to 2 days in advance. Store the cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop before adding fresh basil and cream.

How do I avoid common mistakes with homemade roasted tomato basil soup?

A common pitfall is not roasting the tomatoes long enough, which results in a less flavorful soup. Also, be careful not to over-blend; a few tiny flecks of tomato can add nice texture. Lastly, always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Best Ways to Serve Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

This soup is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a truly comforting meal, serve a steaming bowl alongside a crusty grilled cheese sandwich – the gooey cheese is a perfect contrast! You can also pair it with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing touch. If you’re craving something richer, a dollop of sour cream or a swirl of extra cream makes this already delicious soup feel even more decadent, turning it into a wonderfully creamy roasted tomato basil soup. It’s also fantastic with a side of garlic bread or even some small meatballs for a heartier meal.

Rich Homemade Roasted Tomato Basil Soup - Roasted Tomato Basil Soup - additional detail

Nutrition Facts for Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

This delightful soup is not only packed with flavor but also offers some great nutritional benefits. A single serving of this homemade soup is a wholesome choice.

Calories: 180 kcal
Fat: 8 g
Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
Protein: 4 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Fiber: 5 g
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 400 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

This soup is so good, you’ll want to enjoy it more than once! For the best way to store tomato soup, make sure it has cooled completely before transferring it to airtight containers. You can keep it in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to save it for longer, freezing is a great option. Ladle the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little headspace for expansion, and it will keep well for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to reheat, thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight. Gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. If the soup seems a bit thick after chilling or freezing, stir in a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Enjoying this delicious soup later is just as easy as making it!

Frequently Asked Questions About Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

What is roasted tomato basil soup?

This soup is a flavorful and comforting dish made primarily from ripe tomatoes that have been roasted in the oven, then blended with fresh basil, aromatic vegetables, and broth. The roasting process intensifies the tomatoes’ natural sweetness and creates a rich, deep flavor profile that sets it apart from traditional tomato soups. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the fresh taste of tomatoes. For more information on the benefits of tomatoes, see this article on cherry tomatoes.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh for roasted tomato basil soup?

While this recipe shines with fresh, ripe tomatoes, you can use high-quality canned whole peeled tomatoes in a pinch. Drain them well, spread them on a baking sheet with a little olive oil, and roast them as directed. The flavor won’t be quite as nuanced as with fresh, but it will still result in a delicious roasted tomato basil soup. You can also find great recipes for homemade tomato sauce.

What are the health benefits of roasted tomato basil soup?

Tomatoes are packed with antioxidants like lycopene, which is even more bioavailable after cooking. The addition of fresh basil provides vitamins and a fresh flavor without added calories. It’s generally a low-calorie, nutrient-dense option, especially when made with vegetable broth and minimal added fat. Enjoying this homemade roasted tomato basil soup is a healthy choice! For a similar healthy option, try this roasted carrot soup.

How do I make my roasted tomato basil soup extra creamy?

To achieve a wonderfully creamy texture for your roasted tomato basil soup, stir in about 1/2 cup of heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk during the last few minutes of warming the blended soup. Ensure you don’t boil the soup after adding the cream, as it can curdle. A swirl of Greek yogurt or even some pureed cannellini beans can also add creaminess.

Variations of Roasted Tomato Basil Soup You Can Try

Feeling adventurous? You can easily customize this delicious soup to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Vegan Roasted Tomato Basil Soup: For a completely plant-based version, simply use vegetable broth and opt for full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream instead of heavy cream. This makes for a wonderfully rich and satisfying vegan roasted tomato basil soup.
Gluten-Free Roasted Tomato Basil Soup: This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free bread or skip the bread garnish altogether. Ensure your broth is also certified gluten-free for a safe and delicious gluten-free roasted tomato basil soup experience.
Spicy Roasted Tomato Basil Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the pot when sautéing the onions and carrots for a warming kick.
Smoky Roasted Tomato Basil Soup: A teaspoon of smoked paprika stirred in with the broth, or a dash of liquid smoke added at the end, can give your soup a lovely deep, smoky flavor.