Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup

This creamy roasted garlic tomato soup is the perfect answer when you want a warm, comforting bowl that feels indulgent yet wholesome. The natural sweetness of roasted tomatoes pairs beautifully with soft, caramelized garlic, all swirled together with luscious cream and a subtle smoky hint. It’s a recipe that brings familiar ingredients to new heights, making cold evenings and simple dinners feel special.

I still remember the first time I made this soup during a chilly fall night. The house smelled amazing and my family couldn’t stop going back for seconds. Now it’s a staple whenever I crave something cozy and satisfying.

Ingredients

• Tomatoes: Three to four pounds of ripe organic tomatoes brings natural sweetness and vibrant color. Look for firm, blemish-free ones for the best flavor
• Garlic: Two whole bulbs of garlic to roast. Roasting mellows and sweetens the garlic, adding depth to the soup
• Onion: Half an onion, diced, adds gentle sweetness and a savory base that rounds out the flavor
• Extra-virgin olive oil: One tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil lends fruitiness and helps with roasting and sautéing
• Heavy cream: One and a half cups of organic heavy cream creates the soup’s silky, smooth texture and balances acidity
• Vegetable broth: Two cups of organic vegetable broth provides a flavorful, light liquid base for blending all the ingredients
• Tomato paste: Four tablespoons of organic tomato paste intensifies the tomato flavor and adds body
• Sea salt: One teaspoon of sea salt plus more to taste is essential for seasoning and highlighting all the elements
• All-purpose seasoning blend: One teaspoon of all-purpose seasoning blend boosts complexity and ties the flavors together
• Smoked paprika: Half a teaspoon of smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky note that elevates the soup’s character
• Reserved roasted tomatoes (optional): make a lovely garnish, offering bursts of concentrated roasted flavor
• Grilled cheese sandwich: Serves as the perfect side to make your meal truly comforting and satisfying

Step-by-Step Instructions

Roast the Tomatoes and Garlic:

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius. Cut the tomatoes into wedges and slice the tops off the garlic bulbs to expose the cloves. Arrange tomatoes and garlic on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with a bit of sea salt. Roast for 35 to 40 minutes until tomatoes caramelize and garlic becomes soft and golden. This step transforms the ingredients, softening their edges and deepening their flavor.

Sauté the Onions:

While the oven is working its magic, heat a medium dutch oven over medium-high heat, adding a splash of olive oil. Toss in the diced onions and sauté gently for 1 to 2 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. This quick sauté builds a subtle sweetness and savory foundation that will carry through the soup.

Blend Your Soup Base:

Carefully transfer the sautéed onions along with the roasted tomatoes and garlic cloves, squeezed out of their skins, to a high-powered blender. Add tomato paste and vegetable broth for richness and smooth blending. If you want texture in your final soup, reserve some roasted tomato wedges for garnish. Blend on high speed until perfectly smooth and creamy.

Simmer and Season the Soup:

Pour the blended mixture back into your dutch oven placed over medium-high heat. Stir in the heavy cream, sea salt, all-purpose seasoning, and smoked paprika. Bring to a gentle boil for a couple of minutes, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 to 6 minutes to thicken and marry the flavors. Be sure to taste and adjust the salt or seasoning as needed to make it just right.

Serve and Enjoy:

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with the reserved roasted tomato wedges for extra flavor and a pretty presentation. Pair with a grilled cheese sandwich to make the meal effortlessly comforting and complete. Enjoy the harmony of smoky, sweet, and creamy flavors in every spoonful.

Save Pin

This soup’s star is the roasted garlic. Its sweet, mellow flavor transforms the dish and makes it uniquely satisfying. I love how roasting garlic changes its personality—it goes from sharp and pungent to soft, almost buttery, which is the heart of this soup’s charm.

Storage Tips

Leftovers stay fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days once fully cooled. For longer storage, freeze in portions with space left at the top for expansion and use within three months. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring often, and add a splash of cream or broth if it thickens too much.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer dairy-free options, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a similar richness. Canned tomatoes can replace fresh ones but roast them to deepen their flavor. For a spicier kick, sprinkle in a bit of cayenne or hot sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Grilled cheese sandwich is the classic companion for dipping and contrasting textures
• Other lovely sides include crusty bread with herb butter or a simple green salad dressed with bright vinaigrette to balance the soup’s creaminess

Pro Tips

• Toast your spices like smoked paprika lightly before adding for a deeper aroma
• Do not skip roasting the garlic. It is what makes this soup truly special
• Reserve some roasted tomatoes to garnish. They bring both flavor and elegance to the bowl

Commonly Asked Questions

→ Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, canned tomatoes can be used if fresh ones aren't available. Roasting them is still recommended to develop a deep, caramelized flavor that enriches the soup.

→ Is there a dairy-free alternative for the creamy base?

Plant-based creams like coconut or cashew cream work well as substitutes, providing a rich, smooth texture without dairy.

→ How can I roast garlic quickly?

Wrap garlic cloves in foil and roast at 400°F for about 20 minutes, checking to avoid burning, until soft and golden.

→ Can I add spice to this soup?

Absolutely. A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce complements the smoky paprika and adds a gentle heat.

→ What’s the best way to store and reheat grilled cheese sandwiches?

Wrap leftovers in foil and refrigerate for a few hours. Reheat in an oven or toaster oven to preserve crispness; microwaving may soften the bread.