“This creamy vegetable soup is heartwarming, packed with nutrition, and manages to come together in just 30 minutes, warm, soothing, and a hug in a bowl. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a cozy dinner at home, where laughter and stories fill the air.”
There’s something magical about the smell of vegetables simmering on the stove. As the garlic and onion soften in olive oil, memories of my childhood flash before me, my mother stirring her own soups while my siblings and I laid claim to the first servings. My kids have their favorite tiny bowls, wide-eyed and eager, as they anxiously await the warm, creamy goodness that signals the end of a long day. This soup is more than just a comforting meal; it’s a simple reminder of home and the bonds we share around the table.
Print
Creamy Vegetable Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A heartwarming, creamy vegetable soup that comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, potatoes, etc.)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
- Optional: herbs like thyme or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Add mixed vegetables and cook for a few minutes, allowing them to mingle and soften.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat and let simmer until vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and cheese, allowing it to melt and incorporate into the soup.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with herbs if desired.
Notes
For a thicker soup, blend half of it before stirring in the cream. Customize with seasonal veggies and spices for different flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy vegetable soup is a delightful blend of fresh, colorful vegetables and rich flavors, perfect for any occasion. It’s an ideal way to sneak extra nutrients into your family’s diet without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s so versatile — you can swap in whatever veggies you have on hand. Whether it’s a chilly winter night or a busy weekday’s end, this soup is like a cozy blanket that warms you from within, making you breathe a little deeper and smile a little wider.
Let’s Cook It Together
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, potatoes, etc.)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
- Optional: herbs like thyme or parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Directions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Add mixed vegetables and cook for a few minutes, allowing them to mingle and soften.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat and let simmer until vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and cheese, allowing it to melt and incorporate into the soup.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with herbs if desired.
Nutrition Values
- Serving size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 10g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
Packed with protein and fiber, this recipe keeps you full longer without feeling heavy.
Best Ways to Serve It
I love to serve this creamy vegetable soup with warm crusty bread for dipping, or alongside a simple green salad for a light meal. If you’re feeling generous, a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs or a dollop of sour cream on top can make it visually appealing and even more delicious. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner, a casual gathering with friends, or even as a delightful lunch paired with a sandwich.
Keeping It Fresh
This soup actually gets better with time! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze it if you’d like to save some for later — just be sure to use a freezer-safe container. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it gently on the stove while stirring to bring it back to life.
Chef Betty’s Secrets
- If you prefer a thicker soup, blend half of it in a blender or use an immersion blender right in the pot before stirring in the cream.
- Experiment with different vegetable combinations based on what’s in season or what’s in your fridge to keep things fresh.
- For a spice kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce while it’s simmering.
- Try adding a touch of grated nutmeg to enhance the creaminess and add a warm, aromatic note.
- Don’t forget to taste as you go; sometimes it just needs a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
Creative Twists to Try
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations to change things up:
- Swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk to add a lovely tropical flair.
- Roast the vegetables beforehand to deepen their flavor before adding them to the broth.
- Change it up with an Asian-inspired twist by using bok choy, mushrooms, and a splash of soy sauce for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, this soup freezes wonderfully! Just store it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
What’s the best substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or use a non-dairy milk thickened with a bit of cornstarch.
How long will this stay fresh?
In the fridge, this creamy vegetable soup will stay fresh for up to three days, but trust me; it usually doesn’t last that long!
Can I double the recipe for meal prep?
Absolutely! This recipe is easy to double, just make sure you have a large enough pot to accommodate all the ingredients.
This creamy vegetable soup is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients, and the joy of sharing good food with beloved ones. Enjoy!