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Creamy Potato Leek Soup

Creamy potato leek soup in a white bowl with chives and cream

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This silky, comforting soup gets its lush texture from the natural starches in potatoes, blended smooth without any flour. It’s a humble, nourishing classic that fills your home with a promising aroma and delivers immense satisfaction with minimal fuss. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a lazy Sunday.

Ingredients

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  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 large leeks, white and light green parts only, thoroughly washed and sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced (about 4-5 medium)
  • 4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional garnishes: chopped fresh chives, crispy bacon bits, a swirl of cream, or grated sharp cheddar

Instructions

  1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cleaned leeks and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until very soft and sweet, but not browned. Add the garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant.
  2. Add the diced potatoes, broth, thyme, and bay leaf to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
  3. Remove the bay leaf. Using an immersion blender, carefully puree the soup directly in the pot until completely smooth. (If using a standard blender, let the soup cool slightly, then blend in batches, venting the lid to avoid steam buildup.)
  4. Stir in the milk or half-and-half. Warm the soup through over low heat for another 5 minutes. Do not let it boil after adding the dairy. Taste and season generously with salt and pepper.

Notes

For an extra velvety texture, pass the blended soup through a fine-mesh sieve. Clean leeks thoroughly by slicing first, then swishing in a bowl of cold water to remove grit. The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

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