Delicious Potato Leek Soup Recipe is the definition of simple comfort food done right. This classic soup brings together tender potatoes and sweet leeks in a smooth, creamy base that feels cozy, elegant, and deeply satisfying. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it is the kind of recipe you can rely on for quiet weeknights, casual entertaining, or make-ahead lunches.
This version focuses on clean flavors, gentle cooking, and a velvety texture that never feels heavy. Whether you blend it completely smooth or leave a little texture, this soup delivers warmth and comfort in every spoonful.
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Why You’ll Love This Delicious Potato Leek Soup Recipe
This soup proves that you do not need complicated ingredients to create something special. Potatoes provide natural creaminess, while leeks add a mild sweetness that feels refined without overpowering the dish.
It is also incredibly flexible. You can keep it vegetarian, make it dairy free, or adjust the texture to your preference. Best of all, potato leek soup reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers and meal prep.
If you enjoy recipes that feel classic, nourishing, and dependable, this is one you will come back to again and again.
Ingredients for Delicious Potato Leek Soup Recipe
Soup Base
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter or olive oil
- 3 large leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Potatoes and Liquid
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
Creamy Finish
- 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving
- Fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped
- Extra cream or olive oil for drizzling
Ingredient Notes
Leeks are the star alongside potatoes. Be sure to wash them thoroughly, as dirt often hides between the layers. Slice them lengthwise and rinse well before cooking.
Potatoes with higher starch content, such as russet potatoes, create a naturally creamy soup. Yukon Gold potatoes also work well and add a slightly buttery flavor.
Heavy cream gives the soup its luxurious texture, but half-and-half works nicely for a lighter version. For a dairy-free option, full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream can be used.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Leeks
Trim off the dark green tops and root ends of the leeks. Slice the white and light green parts thinly. Place them in a bowl of water and swish gently to remove grit. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Leeks
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and cook gently for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring often, until they are very soft and fragrant. Do not let them brown, as this can affect the delicate flavor.
Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth
Stir in the diced potatoes, broth, and bay leaf. Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Remove the bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup directly in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until creamy.
For a more rustic texture, blend only part of the soup and leave some potato pieces intact.
Step 5: Finish with Cream
Stir in the cream, salt, and black pepper. Gently warm the soup over low heat for a few minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Pro Tips for Success
- Cook leeks slowly to bring out their natural sweetness.
- Do not brown the leeks, as this can overpower the soup.
- Blend carefully if using a countertop blender and work in batches.
- Add cream after blending to keep the texture smooth.
- Thin the soup with extra broth if it becomes too thick.
Flavor Variations
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for classic depth.
- Stir in grated Parmesan for a savory finish.
- Top with crispy onions or homemade croutons.
- Add a handful of fresh spinach and blend for extra nutrients.
- Finish with a drizzle of herb-infused olive oil.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Delicious Potato Leek Soup Recipe warm, topped with fresh chives or parsley. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad.
For a heartier meal, serve alongside a grilled sandwich or roasted vegetables.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. If freezing, consider adding the cream after reheating for the best texture.
Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring often.
Delicious Potato Leek Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious Potato Leek Soup Recipe is a classic comfort soup made with tender potatoes and sweet leeks simmered into a smooth, creamy base that feels cozy, elegant, and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter or olive oil
- 3 large leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped, for serving
- Extra cream or olive oil, for drizzling
Instructions
- Trim, slice, and thoroughly wash the leeks.
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add leeks and cook gently until very soft.
- Add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
- Stir in potatoes, broth, and bay leaf.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cook until potatoes are very tender.
- Remove bay leaf.
- Blend soup until smooth or desired texture.
- Stir in cream, salt, and black pepper.
- Warm gently and adjust seasoning.
- Serve with herbs and drizzle if desired.
Notes
Cook leeks slowly without browning to keep the flavor delicate. Blend carefully and add cream after blending for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 640 mg |
Values are estimates and will vary depending on ingredients used.
FAQ About Delicious Potato Leek Soup Recipe
Why do you only use the white part of leeks?
The white and light green parts are tender and mild, while the dark green tops are tough and fibrous. The darker parts can be saved for making broth.
Can I make potato leek soup without cream?
Yes. The potatoes naturally thicken the soup. You can skip the cream or replace it with dairy-free alternatives for a lighter version.
How do I keep the soup from being gluey?
Avoid overblending and do not overcook the potatoes. Blending just until smooth helps maintain the right texture.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely. The flavor improves after resting, making it a great make-ahead option.
Is potato leek soup healthy?
It is made with simple, whole ingredients and can be adjusted easily to fit lighter or dairy-free diets.
Final Thoughts
This Delicious Potato Leek Soup Recipe is proof that timeless recipes endure for a reason. With its smooth texture, gentle flavor, and comforting warmth, it is a soup that feels like home.
Whether you are cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe delivers reliable, satisfying results every time.