Creamy Sweet Potato Soup is the kind of meal that instantly makes you feel warm, relaxed, and well-fed, and this easy comfort soup recipe is perfect for chilly evenings, simple lunches, or cozy family dinners. With naturally sweet potatoes, gentle spices, and a smooth, creamy texture, this soup delivers rich flavor without feeling heavy or complicated.
This recipe is inspired by classic homemade versions that rely on simple ingredients and straightforward steps. You do not need special equipment beyond a blender, and you can easily adapt it for vegetarian, dairy free, or lighter eating while keeping the comforting taste everyone loves.
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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Sweet Potato Soup
This Creamy Sweet Potato Soup recipe checks all the boxes for a reliable, feel good meal.
First, it is incredibly comforting. Sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness and body, while warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg add depth without overpowering the soup. The result is smooth, balanced, and soothing.
Second, it is easy to make. The ingredients are simple, the steps are clear, and the soup comes together mostly in one pot. It is ideal for both beginner cooks and experienced home chefs.
Third, it is flexible. You can make it vegetarian, dairy free, or lighter depending on what you have on hand or who you are serving. This makes it a practical recipe for families, gatherings, or meal prep.
Finally, it stores beautifully. This soup tastes just as good, if not better, the next day, making it perfect for leftovers and make ahead meals.
Ingredients for Creamy Sweet Potato Soup
This soup uses everyday ingredients that work together to create a smooth and satisfying texture.
Soup Base Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 leek, white and light green parts only, cleaned and sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Creamy Finish
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Optional Garnish
- Sour cream or plain yogurt
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The soup will still be rich and flavorful.
For a dairy free option, replace the butter with olive oil and use unsweetened coconut milk or plain oat milk in place of the milk and cream. Coconut milk adds a subtle sweetness that pairs well with sweet potatoes.
If you want a lighter soup, you can reduce the cream or skip it entirely and add a little extra broth instead. The soup will still be creamy thanks to the blended sweet potatoes.
Leeks add a mild onion flavor, but if you do not have them, you can use an extra half onion as a substitute.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this Creamy Sweet Potato Soup is simple when broken down into clear steps.
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by peeling the sweet potatoes and cutting them into evenly sized cubes. This helps them cook at the same rate. Chop the onion, celery, and leek, and mince the garlic. Having everything ready before you begin cooking makes the process smoother.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent.
Add the celery and leek to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring often, until the vegetables are tender and fragrant. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds more, just until aromatic. Be careful not to let the garlic brown.
Step 3: Add Sweet Potatoes and Broth
Add the cubed sweet potatoes to the pot, followed by the broth. Stir to combine. Add the cinnamon stick, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper.
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30 to 40 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are very tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Step 4: Blend Until Smooth
Once the sweet potatoes are fully cooked, remove the cinnamon stick and discard it. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until completely smooth.
If you do not have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender. Blend until smooth, then return the soup to the pot. Always allow steam to escape when blending hot liquids.
Step 5: Add Milk and Cream
Stir in the milk and heavy cream until fully combined. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
Heat the soup gently over low heat for a few minutes, just until warmed through. Avoid boiling after adding the dairy to maintain a smooth texture.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a swirl of sour cream or yogurt if desired. Sprinkle with fresh herbs for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm.
Pro Tips for Success
- Cut the sweet potatoes into even pieces so they cook at the same rate.
- Do not rush the simmering step. Fully tender sweet potatoes blend into a much smoother soup.
- Remove the cinnamon stick before blending to avoid overpowering the flavor.
- Blend thoroughly for the creamiest texture. Take your time when blending.
- Adjust thickness by adding extra broth or milk if the soup feels too thick.
- Taste and season at the end. Sweet potatoes can vary in sweetness.
Flavor Variations
This Creamy Sweet Potato Soup recipe is delicious as written, but it is also easy to customize.
For a slightly spicy version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
For a fall inspired twist, add a small pinch of ground ginger or allspice along with the nutmeg.
For extra savory depth, stir in a tablespoon of white miso paste after blending.
For a herby version, add fresh thyme or rosemary during the simmering stage and remove before blending.
For a sweet and savory balance, drizzle a small amount of maple syrup into the soup just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Creamy Sweet Potato Soup with crusty bread, dinner rolls, or warm biscuits for a complete meal.
It pairs well with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, which adds freshness and contrast.
For a heartier dinner, serve the soup alongside a grilled cheese sandwich or a roasted vegetable sandwich.
This soup also works well as a starter for holiday meals or special gatherings because it can be made ahead and reheated easily.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
To freeze, transfer cooled soup to freezer safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. If the soup separates slightly after freezing, simply stir or blend briefly while reheating to restore its creamy texture.
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Creamy Sweet Potato Soup Recipe (Easy Comfort Soup)
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy Sweet Potato Soup is an easy comfort soup made with tender sweet potatoes, gentle spices, and a smooth creamy texture that is perfect for cozy dinners, simple lunches, and chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 leek, white and light green parts only, cleaned and sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Sour cream or plain yogurt for garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
- Peel and cube the sweet potatoes and chop the onion, celery, leek, and garlic.
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion and cook until soft and translucent.
- Add the celery and leek and cook until tender.
- Add the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
- Add the sweet potatoes, broth, cinnamon stick, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer until sweet potatoes are very tender.
- Remove and discard the cinnamon stick.
- Blend the soup until completely smooth using an immersion blender or countertop blender.
- Stir in the milk and heavy cream.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Heat gently until warmed through and serve with desired garnishes.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth. For a dairy free option, replace butter with olive oil and use coconut milk. Adjust thickness with extra broth or milk as needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
Values are approximate and will vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.
FAQ About Creamy Sweet Potato Soup
Can I make Creamy Sweet Potato Soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup is an excellent make-ahead recipe. The flavors actually improve after resting for a day in the refrigerator. Simply reheat gently before serving and adjust the consistency with a little broth or milk if needed.
Can I make this soup vegan?
You can easily make this soup vegan by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, olive oil instead of butter, and plant-based milk in place of dairy. Coconut milk works especially well and adds richness.
How do I make the soup thicker or thinner?
To make the soup thicker, simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes or add less liquid. To thin it out, stir in additional broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
What type of sweet potatoes works best?
Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes are ideal for this recipe because they are naturally sweet and creamy when blended. Garnet or jewel varieties work especially well.
Can I use an Instant Pot or slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for both. For a slow cooker, sauté the vegetables first, then cook on low for 6 to 7 hours before blending. For an Instant Pot, use the sauté function for the aromatics, then pressure cook for about 10 minutes before blending.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Sweet Potato Soup Recipe (Easy Comfort Soup) is proof that simple ingredients can create deeply satisfying results. Whether you are cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a cozy dish to share, this soup delivers warmth, flavor, and comfort in every bowl.
Once you try it, it is likely to become a regular part of your recipe rotation, especially during cooler months when comforting meals are most welcome.