Description
A creamy and comforting Potato Leek Soup made with tender leeks, hearty Russet potatoes, and aromatic herbs. This versatile soup can be prepared on the stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot, perfect for a cozy meal any time of year.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 leeks, rinsed and sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 1/2 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings and Garnishes
- Croutons
- Chives
Instructions
- Sauté Leeks and Garlic: In a large heavy-bottom stock pot or soup pot, melt butter over low heat. Add the sliced leeks and sauté slowly until tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, approximately 30 seconds.
- Add Potatoes, Broth, and Herbs: Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, fresh thyme sprigs, and bay leaf to the pot. Increase heat to bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Simmer Until Tender: Let the soup simmer gently until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, about 20 minutes.
- Remove Herbs and Blend: Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf from the soup. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired smoothness.
- Finish by Adding Cream and Seasoning: Stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Warm through, then serve with optional croutons and fresh chives if desired.
Notes
- Leeks can retain dirt; make sure to rinse them thoroughly before slicing.
- Russet potatoes provide a creamy texture but you can substitute with Yukon Gold for a slightly different flavor.
- To make this soup vegetarian, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- The soup freezes well; store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- For added richness, garnish with crispy bacon bits or shredded cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
