Warm, comforting, and nourishing, this Creamy Vegetable Soup is the perfect one-pot meal for busy weeknights or chilly weekends. Packed with fresh vegetables and rich flavors, it’s a dish that can please both the palate and the soul.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe not only comes together quickly but also provides a hearty serving of vegetables, making it a fantastic option for both adults and children. It’s customizable, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Plus, being a one-pot recipe means you’ll have less cleanup to worry about after cooking, making it a practical choice for anyone looking to whip up a meal without hassle.

How to Make Creamy Vegetable Soup

Ingredients:

2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 potatoes, diced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon thyme
1 pinch nutmeg
2 cups whole milk or unsweetened almond milk
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
Optional: spinach or kale, shredded cheese

Directions:

Dice the carrots, celery, onion, and potatoes into small chunks and mince the garlic.
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, sautéing for about 5 minutes until they’re softened.
Stir in the diced potatoes, thyme, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Cook for another 2 minutes to evenly coat the veggies with the seasoning.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can work in batches with a regular blender.
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and milk (or your dairy-free alternative). Stir this mixture into the soup, letting it simmer for another 5 minutes until thickened.
If desired, toss in spinach, kale, or cheese, stirring until wilted or melted.
Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, or nutmeg as needed.

How to Serve Creamy Vegetable Soup

This creamy vegetable soup can be served as a standalone meal, accompanied by crusty bread or crackers for dipping. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for an extra touch of flavor and color.

How to Store Creamy Vegetable Soup

To store leftover soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. If freezing, consider portioning it out for easy reheating.

Tips to Make Creamy Vegetable Soup

For a thicker soup, let it simmer a little longer or add a few more diced potatoes.
Experiment with different vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preferences, such as adding zucchini, bell peppers, or peas.
If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce.

Variation

For added protein, you can incorporate cooked beans or lentils into the soup. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also makes the soup even more satisfying.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors develop. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes, it can easily be made vegan by substituting the butter with olive oil and using coconut milk or other plant-based milk in place of whole milk.

How can I make this soup spicier?
You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce while cooking to give the soup a kick. Adjust to your heat preference!

Enjoy your deliciously creamy vegetable soup that not only warms your body but also brings comfort to your table!