I love how roasted tomato soup turns simple ingredients into something deeply comforting and rich. By roasting the tomatoes first, I bring out their natural sweetness and add a slightly smoky depth that makes this soup feel cozy, homemade, and satisfying any time of year.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it’s easy to make, requires basic pantry ingredients, and delivers bold flavor without much effort. I also enjoy how versatile it is, whether I keep it classic or customize it with herbs, cream, or spice. Most of all, I appreciate that it feels nourishing and comforting while still being light enough for any meal.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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ripe tomatoes
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olive oil
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onion
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garlic
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vegetable or chicken broth
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salt
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black pepper
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dried or fresh basil
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dried or fresh thyme
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optional cream or milk
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C). I cut the tomatoes in half, place them on a baking sheet, drizzle them with olive oil, and season them with salt and pepper. I roast them until they’re soft and lightly caramelized.
While the tomatoes roast, I sauté chopped onion in olive oil over medium heat until it becomes soft and translucent. I add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. I then add the roasted tomatoes and broth, letting everything simmer together so the flavors blend nicely.
I blend the soup until smooth, either using an immersion blender or a countertop blender. I taste and adjust the seasoning, then stir in basil and thyme. If I want a creamier soup, I finish it with a splash of cream or milk.
Servings and Timing
I usually get about 4 servings from this recipe.
Prep time takes around 10 minutes, roasting takes about 30 minutes, and simmering plus blending takes another 15 minutes. Altogether, I plan for about 55 minutes from start to finish.
Variations
I sometimes add red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions for a spicy kick. For a richer flavor, I like roasting the garlic along with the tomatoes. If I want a vegan version, I skip the cream entirely or use coconut milk. I also enjoy adding a handful of roasted red peppers for extra sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, I warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, I add a little broth or water to loosen it.
FAQs
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?
I can use canned tomatoes if fresh ones aren’t available, but I prefer fresh tomatoes for roasting because they give better caramelization and flavor.
Do I need a blender to make this soup?
I find a blender makes the soup smoother, but I can also mash it with a potato masher for a chunkier texture.
What tomatoes work best for roasting?
I like using Roma or plum tomatoes because they’re less watery and roast beautifully.
Can I freeze roasted tomato soup?
I often freeze it without cream for up to 3 months, then add cream after reheating.
How can I make the soup thicker?
I usually simmer it a bit longer or reduce the amount of broth if I want a thicker consistency.
Conclusion
I think roasted tomato soup is one of those timeless recipes that never disappoints. I enjoy how simple it is to prepare and how comforting it feels with every spoonful. Whether I serve it with bread, a grilled sandwich, or on its own, this soup always earns a place at my table.
Print
Roasted Tomato Soup
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Roasting and Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A cozy and flavorful roasted tomato soup made by oven-roasting ripe tomatoes to enhance their natural sweetness, then simmering and blending them into a smooth, comforting soup.
Ingredients
- 2 lb ripe tomatoes, halved
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried basil or 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or 1 tsp fresh thyme
- 1/4 cup cream or milk (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place halved tomatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Roast tomatoes for about 30 minutes until soft and lightly caramelized.
- Heat the remaining olive oil in a pot over medium heat and sauté the onion until soft and translucent.
- Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add roasted tomatoes and broth to the pot and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or countertop blender.
- Stir in basil and thyme, adjust seasoning, and add cream or milk if desired.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Roma or plum tomatoes work best for roasting.
- For a vegan option, omit cream or use coconut milk.
- Add red pepper flakes for heat if desired.
- Soup can be frozen without cream for best results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
