As I took the first sip of my Roasted Tomato Soup with Cheesy Crouton Topper, the warm, rich flavor engulfed my senses, transporting me to cozy kitchens filled with laughter. This delightful comforting dish marries the sweetness of roasted tomatoes with aromatic herbs, creating a velvety soup that feels like a hug in a bowl. The crunchy cheesy croutons? They elevate this vegetarian gem into something truly special. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays, this quick recipe is crafted with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. Whether you’re yearning for a nostalgic taste or looking to impress guests, this soup ticks all the boxes. How about diving into a heartwarming bowl that promises to bring smiles all around?
Why is this soup a must-try?
Comforting warmth: This Roasted Tomato Soup wraps you in a cozy embrace with each spoonful, offering a heartwarming experience on chilly evenings.
Quick and easy: Perfect for busy nights, this recipe comes together in no time, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal without stress.
Gourmet touch: The crispy cheesy croutons add sophistication and crunch, turning a simple soup into a dish that guests will rave about.
Vegetarian delight: Made with wholesome, simple ingredients, it’s a fantastic choice for vegetarians or anyone looking to enjoy a light yet satisfying meal.
Pair it with a side of crispy garlic bread or a classic grilled cheese sandwich for an unbeatable combination that delights the entire family!
Roasted Tomato Soup Ingredients
• Get ready to create a heartwarming dish with these simple yet flavorful ingredients!
For the Soup
• Whole Peeled Tomatoes – Use San Marzano for the best flavor and depth in your roasted tomato soup.
• Yellow Onion – Adds a hint of sweetness; shallots can be swapped for a more delicate flavor.
• Garlic – Essential for that aromatic taste; fresh garlic is preferred, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
• Unsalted Butter – Gives richness to the soup; for a vegan option, olive oil is a great substitute.
• Fresh Thyme – Infuses herbal notes; if unavailable, use dried thyme in a 1:3 ratio.
• Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing and enhancing flavor; any neutral oil can work if you’re in a bind.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances overall flavor; adjust according to the saltiness of the canned tomatoes.
• Black Pepper – Freshly ground for the best flavor; it’s simple but makes a difference!
• Red Pepper Flakes – Optional for a bit of heat; leave out if you prefer a milder soup.
For the Cheesy Croutons
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese – The star topping for creaminess; feel free to switch with your favorite melty cheese.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty, umami flavor; easy-to-find store-bought is perfectly fine.
• Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs to enhance flavor; if you don’t have it, oregano and basil work well together.
• Sourdough Bread – Perfect for croutons; any crusty bread will do the job nicely.
For the Soup Base
• Vegetable Broth – The liquid base for your soup; homemade is best, but store-bought works too.
• Balsamic Vinegar – Optional for a touch of acidity; red wine vinegar is a good alternative.
Dive into making this soul-soothing Roasted Tomato Soup with Cheesy Crouton Topper and experience the joy it brings to your dinner table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Roasted Tomato Soup with Cheesy Crouton Topper
Step 1: Preheat and Combine
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large Dutch oven, mix together the whole peeled tomatoes, chopped yellow onion, minced garlic, fresh thyme, unsalted butter, a drizzle of olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined, and the aroma fills your kitchen, enticing everyone around!
Step 2: Roast the Mixture
Transfer the Dutch oven to the preheated oven and roast uncovered for 40–45 minutes. Watch as the tomatoes soften and bubble, transforming into a rich sauce with caramelized edges. The colors will deepen and the flavors intensify, creating a fragrant base for your Roasted Tomato Soup that’s worth the wait.
Step 3: Prepare Cheesy Croutons
While the tomatoes are roasting, tear sourdough bread into bite-sized pieces for your croutons. Toss the pieces with melted butter and Italian seasoning in a mixing bowl. Spread the seasoned bread on a baking sheet, then bake in the same oven for 13–15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy, adding delightful texture to your soup.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Once the tomatoes are perfectly roasted, carefully remove the Dutch oven from the oven and stir in vegetable broth. Allow the soup to simmer on the stovetop for an additional 10 minutes. Using an immersion blender, purée the mixture until it’s incredibly smooth and velvety, transforming it into the comforting Roasted Tomato Soup you crave.
Step 5: Cheese and Broil
Ladle the luscious soup into bowls, then top each serving generously with sharp cheddar cheese and the crispy croutons. Place the bowls under the broiler for about 2 minutes, keeping a close eye on them. Look for the cheese to bubble and begin to turn golden, creating a deliciously gooey topping for your soup.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
To finish, sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the top of each bowl for a burst of color and flavor. Serve your hearty Roasted Tomato Soup with Cheesy Crouton Topper alongside a warm, crusty bread for a comforting meal that’s perfect for gathering friends and family around the table.
What to Serve with Heartwarming Roasted Tomato Soup with Crispy Cheesy Croutons
There’s nothing like a cozy meal to warm your heart, and these delightful pairings will elevate your dining experience beyond the bowl.
- Crispy Garlic Bread: A perfect crunchy complement, its savory garlic notes enhance the rich soup, ensuring every bite is satisfying.
- Classic Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Pairing this nostalgic favorite with tomato soup creates the ultimate comfort food duo that evokes fond childhood memories.
- Fresh Side Salad: A crisp and refreshing salad balances the creaminess of the soup, adding a burst of color and nutrients to your meal.
- Roasted Veggies: Roasted seasonal vegetables bring out the natural sweetness of the ingredients, creating a harmonious balance of flavors with the soup.
- Pasta Salad: A cool, tangy pasta salad adds a delightful contrast to the warm soup, introducing new textures and flavor dimensions.
- Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine beautifully complements the acidity of the tomatoes, enhancing the overall meal experience.
- Fruit Tart: For dessert, a light fruit tart will cleanse the palate, providing a sweet finish that harmonizes with the savory soup.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing drink that not only hydrates but also adds a zesty twist, brilliantly cutting through the hearty flavors.
Enjoy these delightful accompaniments as you savor your comforting bowl of Roasted Tomato Soup with Cheesy Crouton Topper!
Expert Tips for Roasted Tomato Soup
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Choose Quality Tomatoes: Using high-quality whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes enhances the flavor and richness of your Roasted Tomato Soup.
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Monitor the Garlic: Ensure the garlic softens and becomes fragrant without burning; burnt garlic can add bitterness to your soup.
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Blending Safely: When using an immersion blender, hold it at the bottom of the pot before turning it on to avoid splatters that may create a mess.
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Crouton Crunch: Keep a close eye on the croutons as they bake—each oven is different, and you want them perfectly golden without burning.
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Taste Before Serving: Always adjust seasoning after blending the soup, as flavors intensify. This is especially important for acidity and salt balance in your Roasted Tomato Soup.
Variations & Substitutions for Roasted Tomato Soup with Cheesy Crouton Topper
Feel free to get creative and personalize this delightful soup to match your taste preferences!
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Cheese Swap: Replace sharp cheddar with Gruyère for a nutty twist; it’s a delicious complement to the soup’s rich flavors.
Enjoy the unique flavor that Gruyère brings, making each spoonful more indulgent. -
Add Heat: Toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for an irresistible kick; adjust to your desired spice level.
This simple addition can transform your soup into a fiery delight, perfect for spice lovers. -
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh basil or oregano for added aroma; these herbs brighten up the flavor profile.
A sprinkle of fresh herbs elevates the soup from great to gourmet, giving it a refreshing touch. -
Broth Choice: For a non-vegetarian version, use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth for a deeper flavor.
This swap will still maintain the comforting essence while adding a savory richness to the base. -
Bread Alternatives: Try using ciabatta or baguette instead of sourdough for your croutons; each type offers a unique texture.
The crunchy texture will still delight, and you might just discover a new favorite! -
Vegan Option: Substitute butter with vegan margarine and opt for nutritional yeast in place of cheese for a dairy-free delight.
These swaps allow you to enjoy a creamy consistency without compromising on flavor. -
Tomato Variations: Use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for an extra smokiness; it adds complexity and depth to every bowl.
The hint of smokiness can provide a whole new dimension to your comforting soup. -
Garnish Ideas: Top with fresh avocado slices or toasted pumpkin seeds for a creamy or crunchy contrast that enhances your dish.
These garnishes deliver a delightful surprise while adding nutritional benefits too.
For more savory delights, you might enjoy a bowl of Roasted Tomato Soup with some Grilled Cheese Sandwiches on the side!
How to Store and Freeze Roasted Tomato Soup
Fridge: Store your Roasted Tomato Soup in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Allow the soup to cool before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion.
Reheating: Thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming.
Feel free to enjoy your cozy bowls of Roasted Tomato Soup whenever the craving hits!
Make Ahead Options
These Roasted Tomato Soup with Cheesy Crouton Topper preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can roast the tomatoes and onions up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen while saving you time on busy nights. Simply store the roasted mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cheesy croutons can also be prepared ahead—just bake them, let them cool, and keep them in a separate container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply blend the roasted base with vegetable broth and reheat it on the stove before garnishing with cheese and croutons. This way, you can relish a delicious homemade meal with minimal hassle!
Roasted Tomato Soup with Cheesy Crouton Topper Recipe FAQs
What type of tomatoes should I choose for my soup?
Absolutely! For the best depth of flavor, I highly recommend using San Marzano whole peeled tomatoes. They’re sweet, juicy, and perfect for roasting, giving your soup that rich taste we all love. If San Marzano tomatoes are not available, look for high-quality canned tomatoes, ideally with no added preservatives.
How should I store leftover Roasted Tomato Soup?
Very simply! Allow your soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just pop it in the fridge and enjoy a warm bowl on a busy weekday!
Can I freeze Roasted Tomato Soup?
Of course! This soup freezes beautifully. I suggest portioning it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a bit of space for expansion. It can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.
What can I do if my soup is too acidic?
If you find that your soup is a bit too tangy for your taste, you can soften the acidity by adding a pinch of sugar or honey. Start with about a teaspoon, stir it in, and taste. Adjust as needed! Also, make sure to season after blending; flavors can change with cooking.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
When preparing this Roasted Tomato Soup, always check your ingredients if allergies are a concern. Both the cheese and croutons can be substituted with vegan options for a dairy-free version, and ensure any broth used aligns with your dietary needs too. If serving to pets, remember that garlic and onions, which are safe for humans in small amounts, can be toxic to dogs and cats.
How do I know when my garlic is cooked perfectly?
Keep your eyes on it! You want your garlic to become fragrant and soft, which takes about 5-7 minutes on medium heat. If it starts to brown, reduce the heat immediately! Burnt garlic can introduce an unpleasant bitterness to your delicious Roasted Tomato Soup.
Comforting Roasted Tomato Soup with Cheesy Crouton Topper
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large Dutch oven, mix together the whole peeled tomatoes, chopped yellow onion, minced garlic, fresh thyme, unsalted butter, a drizzle of olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Transfer the Dutch oven to the preheated oven and roast uncovered for 40–45 minutes until the tomatoes soften and bubble.
- While the tomatoes are roasting, tear sourdough bread into bite-sized pieces. Toss with melted butter and Italian seasoning, then bake for 13–15 minutes until golden brown.
- Once roasted, stir in vegetable broth and simmer for 10 minutes. Then, purée the soup using an immersion blender until smooth.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, top with sharp cheddar cheese and crispy croutons. Broil for about 2 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve alongside warm, crusty bread.
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