Notes
Ingrents (with measurements)
Here’s everything required to build the best roasted tomato soup from scratch:
Fresh Ingredients
- 3 lbs ripe plum tomatoes – Their natural sweetness intensifies when roasted.
- 2 yellow onions, chopped – Creates a sweet, savory base.
- 5 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for deep, aromatic flavor.
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, chopped – Adds freshness and brightness.
- ¼ cup + 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil – Helps with roasting and sautéing.
- 2 tbsp butter – Adds silky richness.
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes – Optional, but great for mild heat.
- 1 (28 oz) can whole plum tomatoes – Adds depth and body.
- ½ tsp dried thyme – Warm, earthy flavor that complements tomatoes.
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth – Your liquid base.
- Salt & pepper – To taste.
- Grated Parmesan
- Fresh basil ribbons
- Toasted croutons or grilled cheese
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss tomato halves with ¼ cup olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange them cut-side up on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 45 minutes, or until soft and caramelized around the edges.
This step develops the bold, naturally sweet flavor that makes the soup unforgettable.Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot, warm 2 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
- Add onions, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
- Cook for about 10 minutes, until onions turn golden and fragrant.
Slow cooking prevents harsh flavors and ensures a buttery, rich base.Step 3: Build and Simmer the Soup
- Stir in the canned tomatoes, fresh basil, thyme, and broth.
- Add in all the roasted tomatoes, plus the juices from the pan.
- Bring everything to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 40 minutes.
Simmering allows the flavors to meld and deepen beautifully.Step 4: Blend Until Smooth
- Use an immersion blender for convenience or transfer batches to a countertop blender for an ultra-creamy texture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional herbs, salt, or pepper.
- Parmesan
- Fresh basil
- Olive oil drizzle
- Homemade croutons
- Grilled cheese
- Toasted sourdough
- Garlic bread
- A simple salad
- These expert tips make a good soup exceptional:
- The riper the tomato, the sweeter and richer the soup becomes after roasting.
- Let them get soft and golden they’re the flavor foundation.
- The silkier the soup, the more luxurious it feels.
- A pinch of sugar or a splash of cream can mellow sour tomatoes.
- The flavor improves dramatically after a day in the fridge.
- Storage, Meal Prep & Freezer Tips
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- It tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight, then reheat gently on the stove.
- Perfect for meal prep, busy weeknights, or batch cooking.
