If there’s one dish that feels like a comforting hug, it’s roasted tomato soup. Picture this: a steaming bowl of rich, velvety goodness, paired with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich or a fresh, crusty baguette.
There you have it, the ultimate duo! And if you want to elevate your experience, a light garden salad drizzled with a vinaigrette can add a refreshing component. Alternatively, try a sprinkle of fresh basil on top, or a swirl of cream to give your dish a gourmet flourish. Ah, the joys of soup and bread—like peanut butter and jelly, they just belong together.

Roasted tomato soup isn’t just food; it’s a way to connect with memories. As a child, I remember the aromas wafting through my grandmother’s kitchen, promising warmth and comfort after a long day. Fast forward to now, and I find joy in re-creating that experience. Not only does it taste incredible, but it also offers a chance to explore seasonal flavors. Using ripe, juicy tomatoes at their peak makes a world of difference. Trust me, you won’t regret it when you dip that warm bread into the soup.
What is Roasted Tomato Soup?
Roasted tomato soup is a creamy, rich soup made from fresh tomatoes that are roasted until they’re caramelized. This roasting process enhances their natural sweetness and creates a depth of flavor that regular cooking simply can’t match. Blended with aromatic herbs and spices, the result is rich and intoxicating. The final touch often involves a splash of cream or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil to round out the taste perfectly. It’s a one-way ticket to cozy town, and you’ll want to make it over and over again.
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What Does It Taste Like?
Imagine the vibrant taste of sun-ripened tomatoes, seamlessly blended with hints of garlic, and the earthiness of roasted herbs. That first spoonful should evoke memories of childhood dinners or lazy Sundays.
The texture is smooth yet fulfilling, with just the right amount of thickness to make it comforting without being heavy. Each ingredient complements another, creating layers of flavor that offer a delightful experience with every bite.
Why Does This Recipe Work?
1. Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients
Using ripe, seasonal tomatoes makes all the difference. Roasting them enhances their natural sweetness and develops their rich flavor profile. This basic principle transforms an ordinary dish into something special.
2. Balanced Flavor Profile
By adding sugar, we counterbalance the natural acidity of the tomatoes. This tip not only elevates the taste but also helps in achieving a well-rounded flavor. You wouldn’t believe how much difference a half teaspoon can make!
3. Versatility and Customization
Want a spicier kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Prefer a creamier texture? A dash of heavy cream can change the game. This recipe allows for numerous adaptations, ensuring it fits your taste buds perfectly.
4. Simple Preparation
The steps are straightforward. You don’t have to be a culinary master. The oven does most of the work while you enjoy the heavenly smells wafting through your kitchen. It’s a user-friendly recipe that anyone can follow.
Ingredients For Roasted Tomato Soup Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful soup:
- 1 tablespoon of coarse sea salt
- ½ teaspoon of sugar (to balance the acidity of tomatoes)
- 3 cloves of garlic, sliced in half
- 3 pounds of ripe Roma (plum) tomatoes, cut into quarters
- 2 teaspoons of dried sweet basil
- 1 medium yellow onion, peeled and cut into chunks
- 5 cups of low-sodium chicken stock
- ½ red bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika (for added depth)
- 1 ½ teaspoons of freshly cracked black pepper
- 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil

Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients
Start by assembling your ingredients. Having everything ready makes the process smoother. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. It’s an easy clean-up!
Step 2: Roast the Tomatoes and Garlic
Place your quartered Roma tomatoes and halved garlic cloves on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle them with a tablespoon of olive oil, sprinkle with salt and cracked black pepper. Toss them around a bit—let them mingle! Roast in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes. You want them slightly caramelized and bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
While the tomatoes are roasting, heat a large pot over medium heat. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil in the pot, toss in your diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onions turn translucent. The kitchen should smell divine right about now.
Step 4: Combine and Blend
Once the tomatoes are roasted, carefully add them to the pot along with the roasted garlic, dried basil, smoked paprika, and chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes. If you want a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until creamy. Alternatively, you can use a regular blender in batches.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning
Give your soup a taste! This is your chance to make it just right. Add more salt, sugar, or pepper as needed. If you’re longing for some creaminess, this is where you would add a dash of heavy cream, making it even more comforting.
Step 6: Serve Warm
When you’re ready to serve, ladle the soup into bowls. Top with a drizzle of olive oil or some freshly cracked black pepper. If you’re feeling fancy, add fresh basil leaves for garnish. Pair it with a crunchy grilled cheese, and you’re all set!
Notes
- Choosing Tomatoes: While Roma tomatoes work beautifully, feel free to experiment with heirloom or vine-ripened varieties for distinct flavors.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. It tastes even better the next day!
- Freezing: You can freeze the soup in portioned containers for up to three months. Thaw and reheat when the craving strikes!
- Serving Size: This recipe provides roughly six servings, making it perfect for meal prep or family gatherings.
- Add-ins: You can mix in roasted chickpeas or croutons for added texture!
Nutrition Information
If you’re counting those nutritional values, here’s a rough estimate per serving:
How to Store the Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 5 days. You can also freeze them! Simply allow the soup to cool completely before pouring it into freezer-safe containers. Make sure to leave some room at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Sides for Roasted Tomato Soup
Now, let’s add even more flair to your meal with some perfect sides!
1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
You simply cannot go wrong with a classic! The melted cheese contrasts beautifully with the hot soup. Use some sharp cheddar or gooey mozzarella—your taste buds will thank you.
2. Crusty Baguette
There’s something about tearing into a warm baguette and dipping it into thick soup that brings joy. Toasting the bread lightly enhances its crunchy texture.
3. Green Salad
A light garden salad with fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette pairs wonderfully. The crispness of the vegetables complements the creamy nature of the soup.
4. Garlic Bread
You can’t have too much of a good thing! Homemade garlic bread offers another level of decadence with its buttery, garlicky goodness.
Alternative Ingredient Choices
Stuck without some ingredients? Here are suitable replacements:
1. Tomato Alternatives
If you can’t find Roma tomatoes, feel free to use canned whole tomatoes or cherry tomatoes in a pinch. Canned versions often have good flavor too.
2. Garlic Substitutes
Running low on garlic? Swap in garlic powder or the roasted version of garlic, but use less, as it’s more concentrated.
3. Stock Variants
If you’re plant-based, vegetable broth can easily replace chicken stock. It keeps the flavors rich without any animal products.
4. Sweeteners
Instead of sugar, use honey or agave syrup for a natural sweetening touch. Just remember to adjust the quantity based on your taste preferences.

Equipment
- oven
- mixer
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon of coarse sea salt
- ½ teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of tomatoes
- 3 cloves of garlic sliced in half
- 3 pounds of ripe Roma plum tomatoes, cut into quarters
- 2 teaspoons of dried sweet basil
- 1 medium yellow onion peeled and cut into chunks
- 5 cups of low-sodium chicken stock
- ½ red bell pepper diced
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika for added depth
- 1 ½ teaspoons of freshly cracked black pepper
- 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients
- Start by assembling your ingredients. Having everything ready makes the process smoother. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. It’s an easy clean-up!
Step 2: Roast the Tomatoes and Garlic
- Place your quartered Roma tomatoes and halved garlic cloves on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle them with a tablespoon of olive oil, sprinkle with salt and cracked black pepper. Toss them around a bit—let them mingle! Roast in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes. You want them slightly caramelized and bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
- While the tomatoes are roasting, heat a large pot over medium heat. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil in the pot, toss in your diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onions turn translucent. The kitchen should smell divine right about now.
Step 4: Combine and Blend
- Once the tomatoes are roasted, carefully add them to the pot along with the roasted garlic, dried basil, smoked paprika, and chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes. If you want a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until creamy. Alternatively, you can use a regular blender in batches.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning
- Give your soup a taste! This is your chance to make it just right. Add more salt, sugar, or pepper as needed. If you’re longing for some creaminess, this is where you would add a dash of heavy cream, making it even more comforting.
Step 6: Serve Warm
- When you’re ready to serve, ladle the soup into bowls. Top with a drizzle of olive oil or some freshly cracked black pepper. If you’re feeling fancy, add fresh basil leaves for garnish. Pair it with a crunchy grilled cheese, and you’re all set!
Notes
- Choosing Tomatoes: While Roma tomatoes work beautifully, feel free to experiment with heirloom or vine-ripened varieties for distinct flavors.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. It tastes even better the next day!
- Freezing: You can freeze the soup in portioned containers for up to three months. Thaw and reheat when the craving strikes!
- Serving Size: This recipe provides roughly six servings, making it perfect for meal prep or family gatherings.
- Add-ins: You can mix in roasted chickpeas or croutons for added texture!
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried ones?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs can amp up the flavor. If you’re using fresh basil, add it in at the end of cooking to preserve its freshness.
2. How do I make this soup vegan?
For a vegan version, replace chicken stock with vegetable stock and omit any cream. You can also use coconut cream for a twist if you enjoy that flavor.
3. Is this soup kid-friendly?
Yes! The sweetness of roasted tomatoes is appealing to children. Plus, you can serve it with fun dipping options like cheesy breadsticks.
4. What if I don’t have a blender?
No worries! Simply use a potato masher to break down the tomatoes into a smoother consistency. It won’t be as creamy, but still delicious.
Conclusion
Roasted tomato soup holds a special place in my heart. It’s not just about the flavors but the memories it conjures up with each spoonful. This simple recipe gives you the chance to create a warm, inviting bowl that you can enjoy time and again.
So why wait? Gather those fresh tomatoes and get roasting! Trust me; your future self will thank you when you’re warming up with a bowl of this delightful soup. Enjoy the process, the flavors, and of course, each bite!