The first time I truly understood the magic of simple ingredients was on a particularly blustery autumn evening. I had a head of garlic, some vegetable broth, and a serious craving for something deeply comforting. I’d always heard whispers about the incredible flavor that comes from roasting garlic, but I’d never quite committed to making a full-fledged dish out of it.
That night, however, something shifted. I decided to try my hand at a Roasted Garlic Soup, and let me tell you, it was an absolute revelation. The kitchen filled with an intoxicating aroma, a warm, savory hug even before the first spoonful.
This isn’t just any soup; it’s a bowl of pure, concentrated comfort, a testament to how humble ingredients can transform into something truly extraordinary. You’ll find this Roasted Garlic Soup recipe incredibly satisfying and surprisingly easy, perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want to eat something spectacular.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe for Roasted Garlic Soup
If you’re anything like me, you appreciate a meal that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss. This Roasted Garlic Soup perfectly fits that bill. It’s a sophisticated dish that tastes like you spent hours slaving away, but in reality, it comes together quite simply.
You will adore the rich, mellow flavor of the roasted garlic, completely devoid of the sharp bite raw garlic often possesses. Instead, it offers a sweet, nutty undertone that forms the heart of this creamy, luxurious soup. Furthermore, it’s incredibly versatile, making it a fantastic addition to your regular meal rotation.
You can easily adjust the consistency to your liking, from a hearty bisque to a thinner, elegant broth. This Roasted Garlic Soup also makes your kitchen smell absolutely incredible while it simmers, which is an added bonus! It truly warms you from the inside out.
This creamy Roasted Garlic Soup stands as a testament to simple elegance.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Crafting this delightful Roasted Garlic Soup requires just a few key ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building its incredible depth of flavor. You’ll be amazed at how these simple components come together to create such a memorable meal.
* 3-4 whole heads of garlic
* 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for roasting
* 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
* 4 cups (about 1 liter) vegetable broth
* 1 cup (240ml) milk (dairy or non-dairy, like oat or almond)
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* ½ teaspoon black pepper
* ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
* Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
Substitutions & Variations
This Roasted Garlic Soup recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or what you have on hand. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!
You can easily swap out the type of milk you use. If you want an even creamier, richer Roasted Garlic Soup, consider using heavy cream or half-and-half instead of milk. For a dairy-free version, oat milk, almond milk, or cashew milk all work beautifully and maintain a lovely consistency.
If you need a gluten-free option, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend or skip it entirely for a slightly thinner but equally flavorful soup. You could also use a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to thicken it, adding it at the end.
To add more layers of flavor to your Roasted Garlic Soup, consider sautéing some diced carrots or celery along with the onion. These vegetables will add a subtle sweetness and extra nutrients. For a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes stirred in with the thyme can provide a nice kick.
Furthermore, a splash of dry white wine added after the onions have softened, allowing it to cook down for a few minutes, introduces a bright acidity that elevates the overall profile of this homemade garlic soup. Some people enjoy a bay leaf added during simmering, which you then remove before blending. You can also experiment with different herbs; rosemary or sage would offer a distinct, earthy character to this hearty garlic soup.
Don’t be afraid to adjust seasonings to your taste; perhaps a dash of smoked paprika for an unexpected depth. This versatile Roasted Garlic Soup truly invites culinary exploration.
This Roasted Garlic Soup recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or what you have on hand. Consider complementing your soup with some Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli for a deliciously balanced meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this amazing Roasted Garlic Soup is a straightforward process. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal ready in no time.
1. Roast the Garlic: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take the whole heads of garlic and slice off the very top, exposing the cloves slightly.
Place each garlic head on a piece of aluminum foil. Drizzle about ½ teaspoon of olive oil over each exposed garlic head. Wrap them tightly in the foil.
Roast for 35-45 minutes, or until the cloves are very soft and slightly caramelized. The aroma will be incredible. Once cool enough to handle, squeeze the softened garlic cloves out of their skins into a small bowl.
Mash them with a fork; they should be incredibly tender and spreadable. This roasted garlic is the star of our Roasted Garlic Soup.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Build the Base: Sprinkle the flour over the softened onions. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which will help thicken our Roasted Garlic Soup.
4. Add Liquids & Flavor: Slowly pour in the vegetable broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Add the mashed roasted garlic, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich Roasted Garlic Soup base.
5. Blend to Perfection: Remove the soup from the heat. Carefully use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until it’s completely smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer the soup in batches to a standard blender, being very careful with hot liquids (do not fill the blender more than halfway, and remove the center cap from the lid to allow steam to escape, holding a kitchen towel over the opening).
Blend until smooth, then return the soup to the pot.
6. Finish & Serve: Stir in the milk and heat gently over low heat until warmed through.
Do not boil once the milk is added. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Ladle the hot Roasted Garlic Soup into bowls.
Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting garlic soup recipe.
Pro Tips for Success
Making a truly outstanding Roasted Garlic Soup involves a few simple tricks that elevate it from good to absolutely amazing. Pay attention to these details for the best results.
First and foremost, do not rush the garlic roasting process. Roasting the garlic until it’s deeply golden and incredibly soft is the most crucial step for achieving that signature sweet, mellow flavor in your Roasted Garlic Soup.
If it’s under-roasted, your soup will retain a harsh, raw garlic taste instead of the desired mild sweetness. Feel free to roast extra garlic while you’re at it; you can easily store the mashed roasted garlic in the fridge for future use in dressings, spreads, or another batch of this delicious Roasted Garlic Soup.
When blending the soup, if you are using a regular blender, remember the golden rule for hot liquids: blend in small batches, and always vent the lid. Hot liquids expand and can create a dangerous pressure build-up. Removing the small cap from the lid and covering the opening with a kitchen towel allows steam to escape safely. This ensures a smooth, creamy texture for your Roasted Garlic Soup without any accidents.
Making a truly outstanding Roasted Garlic Soup involves a few simple tricks that elevate it from good to absolutely amazing. To enhance your experience, try serving it alongside a Simple Thai Coconut Red Lentil Soup for a unique twist.
Storage & Reheating Tips
This delightful Roasted Garlic Soup stores and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers. Properly storing your soup ensures you can savor its deliciousness for days to come.
Once the soup has cooled completely to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. You can store this Roasted Garlic Soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeks.
For longer storage, this homemade garlic soup freezes exceptionally well. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave a little headspace for expansion if using containers.
The Roasted Garlic Soup will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
To reheat, gently warm the Roasted Garlic Soup on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently. If the soup has thickened considerably after chilling or freezing, you may need to add a splash of extra vegetable broth or milk to reach your desired consistency. Avoid boiling, especially if you used dairy milk or cream, as it can sometimes cause separation.
You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through, until warmed through. This ensures your Roasted Garlic Soup remains as comforting and delicious as when you first made it.
What to Serve With This Recipe
This elegant Roasted Garlic Soup is substantial enough to stand on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments, transforming it into a complete and satisfying meal.
For a classic pairing, a crusty loaf of bread is an absolute must. Think about a warm baguette, a rustic sourdough, or a flavorful focaccia for dipping into this savory garlic soup. The bread soaks up the creamy goodness beautifully. You could even toast some bread and rub it with extra roasted garlic for an intensified flavor experience.
A light salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Roasted Garlic Soup. A simple green salad with a bright vinaigrette, perhaps featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a few cucumber slices, works perfectly. The acidity of the dressing will cut through the soup’s creamy texture, offering a balanced meal.
If you’re looking to make it a heartier meal, consider serving the Roasted Garlic Soup alongside a light sandwich or a savory tart. A grilled cheese sandwich, perhaps with a touch of smoked gouda, is an eternally popular companion to any creamy soup. Another excellent option is a simple bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, offering a burst of freshness.
For a more sophisticated touch, small crostini topped with a dollop of goat cheese and a drizzle of honey would be exquisite. This comforting garlic soup recipe offers a delicious foundation for many meal combinations.
This elegant Roasted Garlic Soup is substantial enough to stand on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments, transforming it into a complete and satisfying meal. For a delicious side, consider adding Creamy Baked Dauphinoise Potatoes with Garlic and Gruyère to your table.
FAQs
Can I make Roasted Garlic Soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Roasted Garlic Soup is an excellent make-ahead option. You can prepare the entire soup and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day. This makes it perfect for dinner parties or busy weeknights.
Is Roasted Garlic Soup naturally gluten-free?
Not always, as this recipe uses all-purpose flour for thickening. However, you can easily make this Roasted Garlic Soup gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Alternatively, you can omit the flour entirely for a slightly thinner soup or use a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water, added at the end) to achieve thickening.
How do I get the garlic out of the heads after roasting?
After roasting, the garlic cloves will be incredibly soft. Once cool enough to handle, simply hold the roasted garlic head upside down and gently squeeze the bottom. The softened cloves should easily pop out into a bowl. This ensures you get all that beautiful flavor into your Roasted Garlic Soup.
Can I make this Roasted Garlic Soup dairy-free?
Yes, you certainly can! This Roasted Garlic Soup recipe is highly adaptable. Simply substitute the dairy milk with your favorite unsweetened non-dairy milk, such as oat milk, almond milk, or cashew milk. They all work wonderfully to create a creamy texture while keeping the soup dairy-free.
What if my Roasted Garlic Soup is too thin or too thick?
If your Roasted Garlic Soup is too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for a bit longer to allow some liquid to evaporate and thicken. Alternatively, you can create a slurry with a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with a little cold water, whisk it into the simmering soup, and cook for another few minutes.
If it’s too thick, simply add more vegetable broth or milk, a splash at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Always taste and adjust seasonings after making changes.
Roasted Garlic Soup is a flavorful dish made by blending roasted garlic cloves with broth and other ingredients to create a creamy, comforting soup. This simple yet elegant soup showcases the transformation of humble ingredients into a delectable meal, surely a favorite among garlic lovers, as seen in its popularity during autumn and winter seasons. For more on soup types, visit this soup overview.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
This Roasted Garlic Soup offers a comforting and nourishing meal. Please note that nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Total Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 380mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Total Sugars | 4g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Vitamin C | 10% DV |
| Iron | 8% DV |
Roasted Garlic Soup
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting Roasted Garlic Soup made with roasted garlic, vegetable broth, and milk, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
3–4 whole heads Garlic
2 tablespoons Olive oil, plus extra for roasting
1 large Yellow onion, finely chopped
4 cups Vegetable broth
1 cup Milk
2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
1 teaspoon Dried thyme
½ teaspoon Black pepper
¼ teaspoon Salt
Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
Instructions
- Roast the Garlic: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice off the top of the garlic heads and drizzle with olive oil. Wrap in foil and roast for 35-45 minutes. Squeeze the softened garlic into a bowl and mash
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent
- Build the Base: Add flour to the onions and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring
- Add Liquids & Flavor: Pour in the broth, whisking, then add roasted garlic, thyme, pepper, and salt. Simmer for 15-20 minutes
- Blend to Perfection: Blend soup until smooth using an immersion blender or standard blender
- Finish & Serve: Stir in the milk, adjust seasoning, and serve garnished with parsley or chives
Notes
For a richer soup, use heavy cream instead of milk.
This soup can be adapted to be gluten-free using alternative flours.
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg