There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, velvety bowl of potato leek soup—especially when you’re feeling under the weather. With its mild, soothing flavors, creamy consistency, and easy-to-digest ingredients, this classic soup is a go-to for sick days, chilly nights, or whenever you need a little extra comfort.
Potato leek soup is simple yet luxurious, made with soft, buttery leeks, tender potatoes, and a light, creamy broth. Unlike heavy, dairy-laden soups, this version strikes the perfect balance of richness and lightness, making it gentle on the stomach while still incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a nourishing meal to sip on a sick day, a cozy bowl to warm you up, or a classic recipe to add to your soup rotation, this creamy potato leek soup is a must-try.
Why You’ll Love This Potato Leek Soup
- Easy to Digest – The mild flavors and creamy texture make this perfect for sensitive stomachs.
- Warm & Comforting – A silky, velvety soup that’s soothing on a cold day.
- Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor – Leeks, potatoes, broth, and cream come together for a rich, elegant soup.
- Simple & Budget-Friendly – Made with affordable pantry staples and easy to prepare.
- Customizable – Can be made dairy-free, vegan, or even extra thick depending on your preference.
Why Potato Leek Soup is Great for Sick Days
This soup isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nourishing ingredients that make it a great feel-better meal.
| Ingredient | Benefit |
| Leeks | Gentle on digestion, packed with prebiotics for gut health. |
| Potatoes | Easy to digest, provides energy and potassium for hydration. |
| Bone Broth or Vegetable Broth | Helps soothe the stomach and restore electrolytes. |
| Garlic | Naturally anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting. |
| Olive Oil or Butter | Healthy fats that aid in digestion and add richness. |
How to Make Creamy Potato Leek Soup
1. Prepare the Leeks & Potatoes
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 3 large leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Slice the leeks in half lengthwise, then cut into thin slices. Soak in water and rinse well to remove any dirt.
- In a large pot, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat.
- Add leeks and garlic, cooking for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in diced potatoes, salt, and black pepper.
2. Simmer the Soup
Ingredients:
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme or dried herbs
Instructions:
- Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add thyme and let cook for 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
3. Blend Until Silky Smooth
Ingredients:
- ½ to 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for a dairy-free version)
Instructions:
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until completely smooth.
- Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk, adjusting the consistency as needed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
4. Garnish & Serve
Topping Ideas:
- Fresh chives or parsley for brightness.
- Cracked black pepper for a little kick.
- Toasted breadcrumbs or croutons for crunch.
- Shredded cheese (Parmesan or Gruyère) for extra richness.
Craving something velvety and rich? You’ll love our Silky Butternut Squash Soup—creamy, cozy, and nourishing!
Best Variations & Add-Ins
This soup is delicious on its own, but you can customize it based on your dietary preferences and flavor preferences.
| Variation | How to Make It |
| Vegan Potato Leek Soup | Use olive oil instead of butter and coconut milk instead of cream. |
| Extra Creamy Soup | Add ½ cup extra cream or blend in Greek yogurt for thickness. |
| Chunky Potato Leek Soup | Blend only half of the soup and leave some potato chunks. |
| Spicy Potato Leek Soup | Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. |
| Garlic-Infused Soup | Roast the garlic cloves first before adding to the soup. |
What to Serve with Potato Leek Soup
Potato leek soup is a creamy, mild dish, so it pairs well with something crispy, tangy, or herby.
- Toasted Baguette – Classic pairing for dipping.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich – A perfect complement to creamy soup.
- Simple Side Salad – Balances the richness with fresh greens.
- Roasted Vegetables – Add extra nutrients and texture.
- Savory Scones or Biscuits – Adds a soft, flaky contrast.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months (freeze before adding cream).
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove, adding extra broth if needed.
Creamy Potato Leek Soup – A Gentle Sick-Day Meal
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 3 large leeks white and light green parts only, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes Yukon Gold or Russet, peeled and diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Simmering:
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme or dried herbs
For Creaminess:
- ½ to 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free version
Instructions
Prepare the Leeks & Potatoes
- Slice leeks in half lengthwise, then cut into thin slices. Soak in water and rinse thoroughly.
- In a large pot, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat.
- Add leeks and garlic, sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in diced potatoes, salt, and black pepper.
Simmer the Soup
- Pour in broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add thyme and let cook for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
Blend Until Silky Smooth
- Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk, adjusting the consistency as needed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
Garnish & Serve
- Ladle soup into bowls and top with fresh chives, cracked black pepper, or croutons.
- Serve warm with crusty bread or a light salad.
Notes
- For a vegan version, use coconut milk and vegetable broth.
- For extra depth, roast the potatoes before blending.
- Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A: Yes! Whole milk, half-and-half, or coconut milk all work well.
Q: Why do I need to wash leeks so thoroughly?
A: Leeks trap a lot of dirt between their layers, so soaking and rinsing helps remove grit.
Q: Can I make this without blending?
A: Yes! Mash the potatoes with a fork instead of blending for a chunky soup.
Q: Is potato leek soup good for weight loss?
A: It’s low in calories yet filling due to the fiber and healthy fats, making it a great balanced meal.
Save This Recipe for Later
This Creamy Potato Leek Soup is soothing, easy to digest, and perfect for sick days or chilly nights. Whether you prefer it extra creamy, chunky, or dairy-free, it’s guaranteed to be a comforting go-to. Save this recipe to your “Feel-Better Soups” board on Pinterest and enjoy a warm bowl whenever you need a little extra comfort!
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