creamy roasted pepper soup

Published on September 29, 2025
4.8 (245 reviews)

There’s something magical about the way a roasted red pepper transforms when it meets a splash of broth. The aroma alone summons memories of cozy kitchens, where the fire‑kissed vegetables sit on the

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creamy roasted pepper soup
Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
30 min
Servings
4

Why You'll Love This Recipe

✓ Velvety Texture: Roasting the peppers creates a natural creaminess, so you never need heavy cream to achieve a silky mouthfeel.
✓ Bold Sweet‑Smoky Flavor: Charred skins add depth, while a hint of smoked paprika amplifies the comforting warmth of the soup.
✓ Quick & Healthy: Ready in under an hour, the dish is low‑fat, vitamin‑rich, and perfect for weeknight dinners.

There’s something magical about the way a roasted red pepper transforms when it meets a splash of broth. The aroma alone summons memories of cozy kitchens, where the fire‑kissed vegetables sit on the counter, waiting to be turned into comfort. This soup captures that moment, delivering a deep, smoky sweetness that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

I first discovered this recipe on a chilly autumn evening, after a day spent at the farmer’s market. The peppers were at their peak—bright, glossy, and slightly soft. A quick char on the grill unlocked their hidden flavors, and the kitchen filled with a perfume that made the whole house feel warmer.

What sets this soup apart is its simplicity. No heavy dairy, no complicated techniques—just roast, blend, and simmer. The result is a velvety bowl that can stand alone or accompany a crusty baguette, making it versatile enough for lunch or dinner.

1 medium onion, diced Adds aromatic depth; yellow or white works equally well.
2 cloves garlic, minced Provides subtle pungency; can increase to 3 for stronger flavor.
3 cups low‑sodium chicken or vegetable broth Adjust for desired thickness; use homemade for extra flavor.
½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk Creates silkiness; coconut adds a mild tropical note.
1 tsp smoked paprika Enhances the roasted flavor; optional for milder taste.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper Season to taste; remember broth is low‑sodium.
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish) Adds color and a burst of freshness at the end.

Instructions

creamy roasted pepper soup
1

Char the peppers

Place whole peppers on a hot grill or under a broiler. Turn every 2‑3 minutes until the skins blister and blacken evenly, about 10 minutes. Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let steam 5 minutes – this loosens the skins for easy peeling.

Pro Tip: If you don’t have a grill, use a kitchen torch or roast directly on a gas stovetop flame.
2

Peel & chop

Remove skins by gently pulling; any stubborn bits can be scraped with a knife. Core and seed the peppers, then coarsely chop. Set aside; the pieces will blend later, preserving some texture.

Pro Tip: A silicone glove makes handling hot peppers safer.
3

Sauté aromatics

In a large pot, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion; sauté until translucent, 4‑5 minutes. Stir in garlic and smoked paprika; cook an additional minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the spices.

Pro Tip: Adding a pinch of sugar helps caramelize the onion without extra fat.
4

Blend the soup

Add the roasted pepper pieces and broth to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes. Transfer to a high‑speed blender (or use an immersion blender) and purée until completely smooth. Return to pot.

Pro Tip: Blend in batches and vent the lid to avoid steam burns.
5

Finish & serve

Stir in the cream (or coconut milk) and season with salt and pepper. Heat gently—do not boil—to keep the texture velvety. Ladle into bowls, drizzle a little extra cream, and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Pro Tip: A drizzle of extra‑virgin olive oil adds a glossy finish and subtle fruitiness.

Expert Tips

Tip #1: Use a handheld immersion blender

It lets you blend directly in the pot, saving time and reducing cleanup while keeping the soup hot.

Tip #2: Adjust thickness with broth

Add extra broth a quarter‑cup at a time if you prefer a thinner consistency; re‑season after each addition.

Tip #3: Garnish for texture

A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or crumbled feta adds a pleasant crunch and flavor contrast.

Nutrition

Per serving

Calories
210 kcal
Protein
6 g
Fat
12 g
Carbs
18 g

Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely. Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and replace heavy cream with full‑fat coconut milk. The flavor profile remains rich and satisfying.

Cool the soup to room temperature, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens.

Yes. Portion into freezer‑safe bags, leaving space for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat, stirring in fresh cream after warming.

Serve with crusty sourdough, a simple mixed greens salad, or a drizzle of pesto. A light quinoa pilaf also adds protein without overwhelming the soup’s delicate flavor.

Recipe Summary

Prep
30 min
Cook
30 min
Total
60 min
Servings
3
Category: Dinner Recipes
Cuisine: International
Difficulty: Easy
Course: Main
Quick Tips
  • Make ahead friendly
  • Freezer safe 3 months
  • Easily doubled
  • Customizable

Ingredients

  • 4 large red bell peppers
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups low‑sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1
Char the peppers

Place whole peppers on a hot grill or under a broiler. Turn every 2‑3 minutes until the skins blister and blacken evenly, about 10 minutes. Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let steam 5...

2
Peel & chop

Remove skins by gently pulling; any stubborn bits can be scraped with a knife. Core and seed the peppers, then coarsely chop. Set aside; the pieces will blend later, preserving some texture....

3
Sauté aromatics

In a large pot, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion; sauté until translucent, 4‑5 minutes. Stir in garlic and smoked paprika; cook an additional minute until fragrant, being carefu...

4
Blend the soup

Add the roasted pepper pieces and broth to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes. Transfer to a high‑speed blender (or use an immersion blender) and purée until compl...

5
Finish & serve

Stir in the cream (or coconut milk) and season with salt and pepper. Heat gently—do not boil—to keep the texture velvety. Ladle into bowls, drizzle a little extra cream, and garnish with fresh basil o...

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