This creamy vegetable soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with fresh veggies and a velvety texture, it’s perfect for chilly days or any time you need comfort.
Don’t you love how it makes your kitchen smell amazing? I like to add a sprinkle of herbs on top for an extra touch. It’s easy to whip up and will have everyone asking for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: This adds richness to the soup. If you want a dairy-free version, use olive oil or vegan butter instead; it works beautifully!
Onion: A must for flavor! If you’re sensitive to onions, try using leeks or shallots for a milder taste.
Vegetable Broth: Homemade broth is lovely if you have the time. Store-bought works too! Just check for low-sodium versions if you’re watching your salt intake.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, feel free to use milk or a plant-based cream like coconut or almond milk. It will change the flavor but still remain tasty!
Vegetables: Get creative! You can swap in any vegetable you love or have on hand. Zucchini, kale, or spinach can be great additions.
How Do I Ensure My Vegetables Are Perfectly Cooked?
The key to tender, flavorful veggies lies in how you cook them. Start by sautéing the onion and garlic for a fragrant base. Then, add root vegetables like carrots and celery first, as they take longer to soften.
- Cook those for about 5 minutes before adding quicker-cooking veggies like broccoli and green beans.
- Make sure to keep the pot covered while simmering to lock in the heat and flavors.
- Check for doneness by piercing the potatoes with a fork; they should be tender but not mushy.
Also, if you want a creamier texture, blending part of the soup will help without losing all the veggie goodness.
How to Make Creamy Vegetable Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy vegetable soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to cook. In total, you can whip up a delicious and hearty soup in about 40 minutes. Perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced onion and sauté it for about 4-5 minutes, or until it turns translucent. This is where the flavor journey begins!
2. Add More Vegetables:
Next, stir in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery. Allow these to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften. Your kitchen should begin smelling divine by now!
3. Mix in the Fun Stuff:
Now it’s time to add the mushrooms, broccoli, green beans, corn, peas, and diced potatoes. Give everything a nice stir.
4. Pour in the Broth:
Add the vegetable broth to the pot along with the dried thyme or Italian seasoning. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes and other vegetables are tender.
5. Create the Creamy Base:
In a small bowl, whisk together the cream and flour until smooth. Slowly stir this mixture into the soup to thicken it, allowing it to simmer for another 5 minutes while stirring frequently.
6. Season and Taste:
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This is your chance to adjust the flavors to your preference!
7. Optional Blending:
If you like a creamier texture, remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. This will give you a delightful mix of smooth and chunky textures.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve the soup hot in bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired. Dive into the comforting bowl of creamy vegetable goodness!
Enjoy your cozy, comforting bowl of creamy vegetable soup!
Can I Use Fresh Vegetables Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables are a great alternative. Just make sure to chop them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on how fresh and tender they are.
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Yes! You can easily make this soup vegan by substituting the butter with olive oil or vegan butter, and using coconut milk or a plant-based cream in place of heavy cream. Just ensure your vegetable broth is also vegan!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat the soup on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to adjust the consistency.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes! This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, and add a bit more cream or broth to refresh the texture when reheating.