If you’re craving a comforting bowl that hugs you from the inside out, look no further than this Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup Recipe. This soup perfectly balances the rich, mellow sweetness of roasted garlic with the vibrant acidity of ripe tomatoes, all wrapped in a luxuriously creamy texture. It’s a simple dish that manages to feel special, making it an instant favorite for cozy nights in or anytime you want something soothing and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup Recipe plays a key role, creating layers of flavor and a perfectly smooth texture. From aromatic garlic to juicy tomatoes and creamy finishing touches, these essentials come together to make a soup that’s both wholesome and irresistible.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a rich base for sautéing and adds depth to the flavor.
- 1 large onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and a savory foundation.
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced: Boosts the garlic flavor throughout the soup.
- 4 cloves garlic, whole: Roasted to mellowed perfection, they bring that signature creaminess and warmth.
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes or 6-7 fresh tomatoes, chopped: The vibrant heart of the soup, delivering fresh acidity and color.
- 2 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth: Creates the perfect liquid base with added savory notes.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk: Gives the soup its luscious, creamy texture.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Introduces herbal brightness that complements tomatoes beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds subtle earthiness and complexity.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all flavors.
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional): A little trick to soften the acidity of tomatoes if needed.
- Fresh basil (for garnish, optional): Adds a fresh, fragrant finishing touch.
How to Make Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Garlic
Nothing elevates this soup like roasted garlic. Preheat your oven and roast the whole garlic cloves until soft and golden. This process transforms the garlic’s sharpness into a sweet, mellow creaminess that will infuse the soup with warmth.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking gently until they become translucent and fragrant. This step builds the savory base that’s crucial for layering flavors.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices and the broth. Stir in dried basil and oregano for herbs that enhance the soup’s flavor depth. Let the mixture simmer to meld the flavors and soften the tomatoes even further.
Step 4: Blend Until Smooth
Once the tomatoes are tender, add the roasted garlic cloves. Use an immersion blender to puree everything until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, carefully blend in batches for a velvety consistency.
Step 5: Stir in Cream and Season
Finish the soup by stirring in the heavy cream or coconut milk. Adjust salt, pepper, and sugar to taste, creating a perfectly balanced creamy tomato soup that bursts with flavor.
How to Serve Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or a swirl of cream on top adds a beautiful pop of color and freshness to your bowl. Cracked black pepper or a drizzle of good olive oil also work wonders to enhance each spoonful.
Side Dishes
This soup shines when paired with classic grilled cheese sandwiches, crusty bread for dunking, or a crisp green salad. These sides provide contrasting textures that make the meal more dynamic and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup Recipe in hollowed-out mini bread bowls or small ramekins for individual servings. Adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a few shavings of parmesan cheese can elevate the presentation and flavor experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it super convenient for quick meals later in the week.
Freezing
This soup freezes exceptionally well. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its creamy texture or vibrant flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup thickens, add a splash of broth or water to bring it back to the perfect creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Using fresh, ripe tomatoes from the garden or market will add lovely bright flavor to your soup. Just make sure to chop them roughly and simmer a bit longer for that perfect softness.
Is there a dairy-free option for this soup?
Yes, replacing heavy cream with coconut milk provides a wonderfully creamy texture without dairy. It also adds a subtle hint of sweetness that pairs well with roasted garlic and tomatoes.
How do I get the garlic really soft and sweet?
Roasting whole garlic cloves slowly in the oven until golden and tender is key. The gentle heat transforms their sharpness into a mellow, rich flavor that’s essential for this soup’s character.
Can I make this soup spicy?
Definitely! Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during the simmering process kicks up the heat while keeping the soup’s creamy goodness intact.
What should I serve with this creamy tomato soup?
Grilled cheese sandwiches are the classic match, but you can also serve it with crusty bread, garlic croutons, or a simple mixed greens salad for a balanced meal.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s easy to make yet bursting with flavor, perfect for sharing with family or friends. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to comfort food that’s as wholesome as it is delicious.
Print
Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish, featuring the sweetness of roasted garlic combined with the tanginess of tomatoes, enriched with cream for a luscious texture. Perfect for a cozy meal, it balances herbs and a touch of sweetness, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 4 cloves garlic, whole (for roasting)
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes (or 6–7 fresh tomatoes, chopped)
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free version)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Garnish
- Fresh basil (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Roast Garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place whole garlic cloves on a small piece of foil, drizzle with a little olive oil, wrap it up, and roast for about 20 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Sauté Onion and Minced Garlic: While the garlic roasts, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until aromatic.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Add the canned or fresh chopped tomatoes along with the vegetable or chicken broth to the pot. Stir in dried basil, dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook gently for 15 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Add Roasted Garlic and Blend: Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and add to the soup. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, carefully blend in batches in a countertop blender.
- Incorporate Cream and Adjust Seasoning: Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Taste and add sugar if needed to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Adjust salt and pepper as desired.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm with your favorite bread or croutons.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream.
- Roasting garlic helps mellow its flavor and adds a subtle sweetness to the soup.
- If fresh tomatoes are used, blanch and peel them for a smoother texture.
- Adding sugar is optional and depends on the acidity of your tomatoes.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
