Sheet Pan Soup

This Sheet Pan Soup is an easy, hands-off dinner perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. The combination of roasted red peppers, carrots, and tomatoes creates a rich and flavorful soup that everyone will love. What makes this dish truly special is its versatility; you can serve it as a starter or main course alongside your favorite cheese toast. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just one sheet pan, you can roast all your ingredients without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.
• Rich Flavor: Roasting vegetables enhances their natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor to the soup.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with grilled cheese croutons or as a standalone dish, making it perfect for any occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious vegetables, this soup is a great way to get your daily servings while enjoying delicious flavors.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Blender
• Knife
• Cutting Board
• Measuring Spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Sheet: Essential for roasting vegetables evenly while capturing all those delicious flavors.
• Blender: Helps create a smooth consistency for the soup, blending all the roasted ingredients into creamy perfection.

Ingredients

This roasted red pepper, carrot, and tomato Sheet Pan Soup is the perfect easy, hands-off dinner!

For the Soup Base

• 1 head of garlic
• 3 red bell peppers, halved and deseeded
• 10 oz carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces (~5 large carrots)
• 1/2 of a small head of cauliflower, roughly chopped
• 3 small tomatoes, quartered
• 1 small yellow onion, cut into wedges

Seasonings and Oil

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin

For Blending and Serving

• 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• Juice from 1 lemon (~2 tbsp)
• 2 slices of bread (we used sourdough)
• 2-3 slices cheddar or American cheese
• 1-2 tablespoons butter

How to Make Sheet Pan Soup

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400˚F to get it ready for roasting those wonderful vegetables.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic

Slice off the top of the head of garlic, exposing the cloves. Roast the whole head, but you’ll only use half in this recipe. Save the remaining cloves for another dish!

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

Place the bell peppers (skin side up), carrots, cauliflower, tomatoes, garlic, and onion on a large baking sheet. Drizzle everything with olive oil and evenly sprinkle with salt, smoked paprika, cayenne, and cumin. Roast for 40-45 minutes until all vegetables are fork-tender.

Step 4: Heat the Broth

About 10 minutes before your vegetables are finished roasting, heat the broth in a small pan over medium heat or warm it in the microwave until hot.

Step 5: Blend It Up

Once your vegetables are done roasting, transfer them immediately to a blender. Squeeze out garlic cloves from half of your roasted garlic. Add in hot broth and lemon juice; blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more salt if necessary.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve this heartwarming soup hot! Pair it with grilled cheese sandwiches or make delicious grilled cheese croutons.

Step 7: Make Grilled Cheese Croutons (Optional)

To prepare grilled cheese croutons, add butter to a pan over medium-low heat. Toast bread until golden brown on one side. Flip one piece over to add cheese slices on top. Place another slice on top (cooked side down). Cover with a lid until golden brown on both sides and cheese is melted. Remove from heat and slice into cubes.

Enjoy your delightful Sheet Pan Soup with these crispy croutons for an added crunch!

How to Serve Sheet Pan Soup

Sheet pan soup is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Pairing it with delicious accompaniments enhances its flavor and texture, making for a delightful meal.

With Grilled Cheese Croutons

• These are bite-sized pieces of grilled cheese that add a crunchy texture to the soup.

With Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of freshness and added color.

With a Squeeze of Lemon

• A little extra lemon juice right before serving brightens the flavors and adds acidity.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside slices of crusty bread for dipping into the warm, flavorful soup.

As a Base for Additional Toppings

• Consider adding toppings like avocado slices, toasted seeds, or crispy onions for extra depth.

How to Perfect Sheet Pan Soup

To make your sheet pan soup truly outstanding, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Vegetables: Fresh vegetables will enhance the flavor and nutrition of your soup.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste before serving and adjust salt or spices according to your preference.
• Blend Thoroughly: For a creamier texture, blend the soup until completely smooth.
• Experiment with Broth: Use homemade chicken or vegetable broth for richer taste.
• Roast Until Tender: Ensure all vegetables are fork-tender to achieve optimal flavor during roasting.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Best Side Dishes for Sheet Pan Soup

Complement your sheet pan soup with these delightful side dishes that enhance the overall meal experience.

1. Classic Caesar Salad
   A simple Caesar salad with crisp romaine, croutons, and creamy dressing balances the richness of the soup.
2. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil provide a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
3. Garlic Bread
   Toasted bread topped with garlic butter pairs perfectly as a dipper for your sheet pan soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables
   Extra roasted veggies like zucchini or asparagus can add variety and nutrition alongside your soup.
5. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and herbs brings a hearty yet healthy side option that complements the flavors.
6. Stuffed Peppers
   Bell peppers filled with rice and veggies can serve as a filling side that works well with the soup’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making sheet pan soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Using stale ingredients: Fresh vegetables yield better flavor and texture. Always check for freshness before cooking.
• Overcrowding the pan: If you pile too many vegetables together, they won’t roast properly. Leave space for even cooking and browning.
• Not seasoning adequately: A lack of salt and spices can lead to bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning to elevate flavors.
• Skipping the blending step: Blending is key for a smooth texture. Don’t skip this step; it makes a big difference in the final dish.
• Ignoring broth temperature: Adding cold broth to hot roasted vegetables can cool down your soup. Warm it up beforehand for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover sheet pan soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sheet Pan Soup

• Freeze in individual portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be kept frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sheet Pan Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, pour soup into an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making sheet pan soup:

What is Sheet Pan Soup?

Sheet Pan Soup is a flavorful dish made by roasting vegetables on a sheet pan and then blending them with broth for a creamy soup.

Can I customize my Sheet Pan Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings according to your taste preferences.

How do I make this recipe vegan-friendly?

Simply substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip any cheese or butter toppings.

How long does it take to make Sheet Pan Soup?

The total time for this recipe is about 55 minutes, including prep and cook time.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used; however, fresh produce typically offers better flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Sheet Pan Soup is not only easy to make but also full of vibrant flavors. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on what you have on hand. Whether you pair it with grilled cheese croutons or enjoy it solo, this recipe is sure to please!