Velvety Leek and Potato Soup

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 6
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This Velvety Leek and Potato Soup is a hug in a bowl — perfect for chilly days when you want something warm and comforting. The smooth texture and flavorful blend of leeks and potatoes make it an irresistible classic.

Ingredients for Velvety Leek and Potato Soup

Russet potatoes are the star here, providing a starchy base that thickens the soup beautifully. Chicken broth and water work together to create a flavorful and balanced liquid. Leeks add a subtle onion-like flavor that's milder and sweeter, while the onion brings depth. Garlic enhances the overall savory notes with its aromatic touch. Heavy cream is what gives this soup its luxurious, velvety finish. Unsalted butter is used to sauté the vegetables, adding a rich flavor. Finally, a sprinkle of fresh chives gives a pop of color and a hint of freshness at the end.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use the white and light green parts of the leeks for the best flavor; the dark green parts can be tough.
  • If your soup is too thick, add a bit more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
  • For an extra flavor boost, you can substitute some of the water with white wine.
  • Freeze leftovers in individual portions for a quick meal anytime.

Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, try serving it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich. A light white wine, like a Chardonnay, complements the creamy soup beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
How long does this soup last in the fridge?
It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container.
Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, Yukon Gold potatoes work well too, giving a slightly creamier texture.

Velvety Leek and Potato Soup Recipe Walkthrough

Start by getting a large pot and melting the butter over medium heat. Once melted, toss in the leeks and onion. You'll want to sauté them until they soften, which should take about five minutes. Keep an eye on them and give them the occasional stir.

When the leeks and onion are ready, add the minced garlic. Stir it around and let it cook for just a minute until it's nice and fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.

Next, add the cubed potatoes, chicken broth, and water to the pot. Increase the heat to bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Now comes the fun part: pureeing the soup. Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend everything until it's smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.

Once blended, stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it one last stir, and your soup is ready to be served hot. A sprinkle of chopped fresh chives on top adds the perfect finishing touch.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and simple to prepare with everyday ingredients.
  • Rich, creamy texture without being too heavy.
  • Perfect for batch cooking and freezing for later.
  • Versatile enough to be a starter or a main course.

Ingredients

2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups water
2 leeks, sliced and cleaned
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
3 tbsp unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp chopped fresh chives for garnish

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add leeks and onions, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add cubed potatoes, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives.

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