The Ultimate Comfort Soup

This creamy roasted tomato basil soup is made by roasting fresh tomatoes until caramelized and sweet, then blending them with aromatics, fresh basil, and a swirl of cream. It is worlds better than anything from a can and takes only 45 minutes start to finish.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs Roma or plum tomatoes, halved
  • 1 head garlic (top cut off)
  • 1 medium onion, quartered
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
  • Red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions

  1. Roast: Preheat oven to 400°F. Place tomatoes (cut side up), onion, and garlic head on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper. Roast 35–40 minutes until caramelized.
  2. Blend: Squeeze roasted garlic cloves out of skins. Transfer roasted tomatoes, garlic, and onion to a blender. Add broth and basil. Blend until very smooth. (Use an immersion blender in the pot if preferred.)
  3. Finish: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir in cream. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and sugar.
  4. Serve hot with crusty bread or a classic grilled cheese sandwich.

Make Ahead & Storage

This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 5 days or the freezer for 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop and add a splash of cream to refresh it.

Nutrition (per serving)

  • Calories: 220
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fat: 15g