Best Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe – Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

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Nothing hits the spot like a steaming bowl of roasted tomato basil soup on a chilly day. This comforting classic is the perfect blend of rich, slow-roasted tomatoes, sweet caramelized onions, and fresh basil. The deep, slightly smoky flavor of roasted tomatoes brings a gourmet flair to a humble dish, while the creamy texture adds a luxurious finish to each spoonful. Whether you’re pairing it with a golden grilled cheese or enjoying it solo with a slice of crusty sourdough, this soup is pure nostalgia in a bowl.

This homemade tomato soup isn’t just cozy—it’s also incredibly easy to make. Roasting the tomatoes intensifies their flavor, adding a natural sweetness and depth that store-bought soups just can’t match. With just a few pantry staples and some fresh herbs, you’ll be amazed at how this simple recipe transforms into a heartwarming dish that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or those moments when you just need a little food hug.

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Ingredients for this Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

• 2 ½ lbs ripe tomatoes (Roma or vine-ripened), halved
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 6 cloves garlic, peeled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
• 3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional, for creaminess)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (for depth)
• Crusty bread or grilled cheese, for serving (optional garnish: cherry tomatoes, cream swirl, basil leaves)

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Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes, Onions, and Garlic

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the halved tomatoes (cut side up), sliced onions, and whole garlic cloves on a large baking sheet. Drizzle generously with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 35–40 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft, caramelized, and slightly charred on the edges. This roasting step is key to developing the deep, rich flavor that makes this soup unforgettable.

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Step 2: Blend Until Smooth

Transfer the roasted tomatoes, onions, and garlic to a high-speed blender or food processor. Add the fresh basil, tomato paste, and a portion of the broth. Blend until smooth and creamy. If needed, blend in batches depending on the size of your blender. You can also use an immersion blender directly in a large pot if you prefer a one-pot process.

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Step 3: Simmer and Adjust

Pour the blended mixture into a large pot over medium heat. Stir in the remaining broth and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Add the sugar if the soup tastes overly acidic. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir in the cream or coconut milk if using, for a rich and silky texture. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or basil as desired.

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Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into warm bowls. For an elegant finish, top with a swirl of cream, a roasted cherry tomato, and a fresh basil leaf. Serve with toasted sourdough, crusty bread, or a melty grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate cozy meal.

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Storage Instructions

Roasted tomato basil soup stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.

• Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 4–5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup (without cream if possible) for up to 3 months. Pour into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags (lay flat for easier storage). Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To freeze soup with cream, allow it to cool completely and be sure to mix well when reheating to prevent separation.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – makes approx. 4 servings)

• Calories: 210
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 10g
  (Note: Values may vary depending on exact ingredients and added cream.)

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of tomatoes are best for this soup?

Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes are ideal because they roast beautifully and offer a naturally sweet, rich flavor.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, but roasting fresh tomatoes enhances the flavor significantly. If using canned, opt for fire-roasted and reduce added salt.

Is this soup vegan?

It can be! Simply use vegetable broth and skip the cream or substitute with coconut milk or cashew cream.

How do I make it creamier?

Add heavy cream, coconut milk, or cashew cream at the end. Blending the soup until silky also boosts the creamy texture.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. Roasted red peppers or carrots add a lovely sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.

What can I serve with tomato soup?

Grilled cheese sandwiches, garlic bread, or a fresh salad are all excellent pairings.

How do I thicken my tomato soup?

Let it simmer uncovered to reduce and concentrate. You can also add a small cooked potato or use less broth when blending.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Yes! For best results, freeze it without cream and stir the cream in after reheating.

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