Smoky Roasted Tomato Soup

This Smoky Roasted Tomato Soup is rich, comforting, and full of deep flavor. By roasting the tomatoes with garlic until lightly charred, you create a natural sweetness and smokiness that blends beautifully with vegetable stock. A touch of smoked paprika adds warmth, while cream (optional) brings a velvety finish. Best of all, this soup tastes fantastic even when tomatoes aren’t at their seasonal peak making it a perfect year-round recipe.

Ingredients

Smoky Roasted Tomatoes

  • 1.5kg / 3 lb tomatoes, halved and cored
  • 5 garlic cloves, unpeeled
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Soup Base

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 litre / 4 cups vegetable stock, low sodium
  • 1/2 tsp white sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 cup cream (optional, or substitute 2 tbsp butter)
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped (optional)

For Serving

  • Extra cream, for drizzling
  • Grilled cheese sandwiches (optional but highly recommended)

Instructions

Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat the oven to 220°C / 425°F (200°C fan-forced). Arrange halved tomatoes and unpeeled garlic cloves on a tray. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, then toss to coat. Place tomatoes cut side up and roast for 40–45 minutes until edges are slightly charred.

Build the Soup Base

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté onion and garlic for 3 minutes until softened. Add roasted tomatoes along with their juices. Squeeze roasted garlic out of the skins into the pot, then pour in vegetable stock.

Blend and Simmer

Using a stick blender, blitz the mixture until smooth (alternatively, use a food processor or blender). Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook gently for 10 minutes. Stir in cream (if using) and adjust seasoning with sugar if the soup tastes too tangy.

Serve

Ladle into bowls, drizzle with cream, and garnish with basil if available. Pair with a warm grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal.

Notes

  • Smoked paprika enhances the flavor but can be skipped if you don’t have it.
  • A little cream or butter makes the soup richer without overpowering the tomato flavor.
  • Sugar is only needed if your tomatoes are underripe or sour.
  • Fresh basil adds brightness but is optional.
  • Leftovers store well: up to 4 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.

Conclusion

This Smoky Roasted Tomato Soup is a wholesome, hearty dish that’s simple to prepare yet bursting with flavor. Roasted tomatoes, garlic, and smoked paprika create a deep, satisfying base, while a swirl of cream adds a comforting touch. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with grilled cheese, this soup is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.

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