Easy Roasted Garlic Soup

Calling all garlic lovers – this Easy Roasted Garlic Soup is for you! It’s the perfect comfort food for cold, gloomy days. Creamy, garlicky, and delicious, this soup is made with around 50 garlic cloves (5 garlic heads). Whether you’re serving it at a cozy dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe will become your go-to for warmth and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Garlic Goodness: The star ingredient here is roasted garlic, which adds a sweet and mellow flavor to the soup.
• Creamy Comfort: The addition of heavy cream makes this soup velvety smooth and indulgent.
• Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Versatile Options: Pair it with crispy bacon or veggies for added texture; serve with fresh baguette for dipping.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: This Easy Roasted Garlic Soup works well as an appetizer or main dish, making it a versatile choice.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are the must-haves for preparing Easy Roasted Garlic Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large pot
• Hand blender or food processor
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ideal for roasting vegetables evenly without sticking.
• Large pot: Provides ample space to combine ingredients and blend the soup smoothly.
• Hand blender: Allows easy blending directly in the pot without transferring hot soup to another container.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 8 medium waxy potatoes (about 1 kg), peeled and diced
– 2 shallots, peeled and halved
– 5 heads garlic, cut the tops off
– Olive oil for drizzling
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 3 cups (750ml) chicken or vegetable broth (or more to desired consistency)
– 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream / double cream
– Crispy bacon or pancetta, crumbled
– Grated/shredded mild cheddar cheese
– Chopped parsley / dill / chives
– Fresh baguette

How to Make Easy Roasted Garlic Soup

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Prepare Vegetables for Roasting

• Place the diced potatoes, halved shallots, and garlic heads on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Drizzle generously with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

• Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for about 30 minutes.
• Remove from the oven, cover with kitchen foil, then return to the oven for an additional 15-25 minutes until potatoes are tender and garlic cloves are soft.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Pot

Transfer the roasted vegetables into a large pot. Squeeze the softened garlic cloves out of their skins.

Step 5: Add Broth and Cream

Add chicken or vegetable broth along with heavy cream to the pot.

Step 6: Blend Until Smooth

Blend using a hand blender until you achieve a smooth and creamy texture. Alternatively, transfer to a food processor or blender before returning it to the pot.

Step 7: Season to Taste

Taste your soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 8: Warm Before Serving

Gently warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through.

Step 9: Serve It Up

Ladle the roasted garlic soup into serving bowls.

Step 10: Garnish

Garnish each bowl with a drizzle of olive oil, crispy bacon or pancetta, cheddar cheese, and chopped parsley, dill, or chives.

Enjoy your delicious Easy Roasted Garlic Soup with slices of fresh baguette!

How to Serve Easy Roasted Garlic Soup

Serving Easy Roasted Garlic Soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious ideas to enhance this comforting dish.

With a Drizzle of Olive Oil

• A simple drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top adds richness and enhances the flavor.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh parsley, dill, or chives not only add color but also a burst of freshness that complements the garlic.

Accompanied by Crispy Bacon or Pancetta

• Crumbled crispy bacon or pancetta provides a savory crunch, balancing the creaminess of the soup.

Served with a Fresh Baguette

• Pairing the soup with a warm baguette allows for dipping and adds a delightful texture to each bite.

Topped with Cheddar Cheese

• Grated mild cheddar melted on top creates an indulgent layer that pairs beautifully with the soup’s flavors.

As Part of a Cozy Dinner

• Serve the soup as an appetizer in a multi-course meal to impress guests or enjoy it as a comforting main course.

How to Perfect Easy Roasted Garlic Soup

Perfecting your Easy Roasted Garlic Soup can take this dish from good to extraordinary. Here are some tips to help you achieve that creamy, garlicky goodness.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and herbs for the best flavor profile.
• Adjust Consistency: Feel free to add more broth if you prefer a thinner soup or less for a thicker texture.
• Blend Until Smooth: Ensure you blend the soup thoroughly for a velvety texture; lumps can detract from the experience.
• Taste and Season: Don’t forget to taste before serving. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for optimal flavor.
• Experiment with Spices: Adding spices like smoked paprika or cumin can give an exciting twist to your roasted garlic soup.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after blending can help meld the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Roasted Garlic Soup

Pairing Easy Roasted Garlic Soup with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that echoes the garlic theme while providing crunch and flavor.
2. Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette adds brightness and balance to the rich soup.
3. Bruschetta: Topped with tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze, bruschetta offers refreshing contrasts in flavor.
4. Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses can provide variety and richness alongside your soup.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring additional nutrients and textures, pairing well with the creamy soup.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites offer depth in flavor and work well as finger food alongside your meal.
7. Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges are delightful for dipping into the delicious roasted garlic soup.
8. Savory Scones: Cheese or herb scones present a hearty option that complements the creamy texture of the soup wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Roasted Garlic Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Over-roasting the garlic: If you roast garlic too long, it can become bitter. Keep an eye on it and aim for a golden color.
• Using the wrong potatoes: Waxy potatoes work best for this recipe. Avoid starchy varieties, which can make the soup too gummy.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season your soup! A pinch of salt and pepper enhances flavors significantly.
• Not blending thoroughly: For a creamy texture, blend until completely smooth. Lumps can ruin the experience.
• Ignoring the garnishes: Garnishes like crispy bacon and cheese add texture and flavor. Don’t skip them!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing to prevent moisture from forming inside.

Freezing Easy Roasted Garlic Soup

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Easy Roasted Garlic Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Roasted Garlic Soup.

Can I use different types of broth?

Yes! You can use chicken or vegetable broth depending on your dietary preference.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any meat garnishes.

Can Easy Roasted Garlic Soup be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better after sitting for a day, allowing flavors to blend beautifully.

What can I serve with Easy Roasted Garlic Soup?

Pair it with fresh baguette, salad, or sandwiches for a complete meal.

Is this soup suitable for freezing?

Yes! It freezes well; just ensure it’s stored in airtight containers.

Final Thoughts

Easy Roasted Garlic Soup is a comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it versatile enough for lunch or dinner. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or toppings—each variation offers something special!