Potato Leek Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Potato Leek Soup is a classic comfort dish with a creamy texture and delicate, savory flavor. It blends the mild sweetness of leeks with the hearty, starchy richness of potatoes, creating a soothing bowl perfect for cold days or light dinners. Whether served chunky or pureed, it’s a simple yet elegant soup that warms from the inside out.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

potatoesleeksbuttergarlicvegetable or chicken stockheavy cream or milkbay leafthyme (optional)saltblack pepperolive oil (for garnish, optional)

directions

Clean and slice the leeks, using only the white and light green parts.

In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat and sauté the leeks and garlic until soft and translucent.

Peel and dice the potatoes, then add them to the pot with the leeks.

Pour in the stock, add the bay leaf and thyme (if using), and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender.

Remove the bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or leave some chunks if desired.

Stir in the cream or milk and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Simmer gently for another 5 minutes, then serve hot with a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 4-6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 30 minutesTotal time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add crispy bacon or pancetta on top for a smoky crunch.

Use coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

Mix in chopped spinach or kale at the end for added greens.

Serve with crusty bread or croutons for extra texture.

Top with grated cheese or a swirl of sour cream for richness.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Potato Leek Soup ahead of time?

Yes, it’s even better the next day as flavors deepen.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but you can leave skins on for a rustic feel.

Can I use water instead of stock?

Yes, but the flavor will be lighter. Adjust seasoning accordingly.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, if made with gluten-free stock.

Can I use other types of onions?

Leeks provide a unique flavor, but yellow onions can be a substitute in a pinch.

Can I leave the soup chunky?

Absolutely, you can blend partially or not at all, depending on your preference.

Conclusion

Potato Leek Soup is a timeless, soul-soothing dish that brings comfort and satisfaction with every spoonful. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s a go-to recipe for anyone seeking a cozy, nourishing meal. Serve it up on a chilly evening or as a light lunch—you’ll love its gentle flavor and creamy consistency.

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