Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup
Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines sweet roasted garlic with tangy tomatoes for a velvety texture. Perfect for cozy meals, this budget-friendly recipe is easy to make and customizable. It serves 4-6 people and pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese or crusty bread. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, it delivers restaurant-quality taste at home.
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Blender or Immersion Blender
- Knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh tomatoes or two 28-ounce cans of whole peeled tomatoes
- 2 whole garlic heads
- 1 large yellow onion chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free option
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar optional, to balance acidity
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish optional
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Garlic
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off each garlic head to expose the cloves. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 35-40 minutes until soft and golden.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes
- If using fresh tomatoes, halve them and remove the cores. Place on a baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, and sprinkle with salt. Roast for 25-30 minutes alongside the garlic (optional for deeper flavor).
Step 3: Cook the Onion
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- Add the roasted or canned tomatoes to the pot. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins into the pot. Stir in the broth, dried basil, oregano, and sugar (if using).
Step 5: Simmer the Soup
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This melds the flavors beautifully.
Step 6: Blend the Soup
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, work in batches and let the soup cool slightly. Blend until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Add Cream
- Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk over low heat. Warm through for 2-3 minutes but don’t let it boil. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of cream, if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides.