Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just over 30 minutes, this one-pot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Customize the soup with your favorite vegetables or use it as an opportunity to clear out leftover produce from your fridge.
- Comforting: The creamy texture and hearty ingredients make this soup a satisfying comfort food that appeals to both kids and adults.
Ingredients
- Butter
- Onion
- Carrot
- Celery
- Garlic
- Dried oregano
- Dried thyme
- Dried sage
- All-purpose flour
- Vegetable broth
- Broccoli florets
- Corn kernels
- Yellow potatoes
- Heavy cream
- Sharp cheddar cheese
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Cook until the onions are translucent and the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, and dried sage. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Create Roux: Sprinkle all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to coat and cook for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Gradually pour in the vegetable broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Incorporate Vegetables: Add broccoli florets, corn kernels, and diced yellow potatoes to the pot. Return to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender.
- Finish with Cream and Cheese: Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and shredded sharp cheddar cheese until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Protein Addition: Incorporate cooked chicken, turkey, or tofu for added protein.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with smoked Gouda or Gruyère to alter the flavor profile.
- Spice Level: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herb Substitutions: Use Italian seasoning in place of individual dried herbs for a different flavor blend.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Place cooled soup in a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the soup over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring between intervals, until warm.
FAQs
What can I substitute for heavy cream to make the soup lighter?
You can use whole milk or half-and-half as a lighter alternative to heavy cream. However, the soup may be less creamy.
Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative, use plant-based milk instead of heavy cream, and replace cheddar cheese with a vegan cheese option.
How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
If the soup is too thin, create a slurry by mixing equal parts flour and cold water until smooth. Stir the slurry into the simmering soup and cook until it thickens.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely, frozen vegetables can be used. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are heated through.
What type of potatoes work best in this soup?
Yellow potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture and quick cooking time. You can leave the skins on for added texture and nutrients.
How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?
Ensure the soup is not boiling when you add the cheese. Stir continuously over low heat until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
Can I add pasta or rice to this soup?
Yes, adding cooked pasta or rice can make the soup heartier. Add them towards the end of the cooking process to prevent overcooking.
How long does this soup last in the fridge?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Is it necessary to blend the soup?
No, blending is not required. The soup has a creamy base without blending, but if you prefer a
creamy vegetable soup
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy vegetable soup is a quick, comforting, and customizable meal that comes together in just over 30 minutes using only one pot! Packed with hearty vegetables, a creamy base, and cheddar cheese, this soup is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Use it as a “clean out the fridge” meal by swapping in your favorite veggies.
Ingredients
- Butter – For sautéing and adding richness
- Onion – Diced, for flavor
- Carrot – Sliced, adds natural sweetness
- Celery – Sliced, for a classic soup base
- Garlic – Minced, for depth of flavor
- Dried oregano, thyme, sage – For a savory herb blend
- All-purpose flour – Helps thicken the soup
- Vegetable broth – Forms the soup’s base
- Broccoli florets – Adds texture and nutrition
- Corn kernels – Sweetness and crunch
- Yellow potatoes – Creamy texture when cooked
- Heavy cream – For a rich, velvety finish
- Sharp cheddar cheese – Melts into the soup for extra creaminess
- Salt & pepper – To taste
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics – In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, sliced carrot, and celery. Cook until onions become translucent and vegetables soften.
- Add Garlic & Herbs – Stir in minced garlic, oregano, thyme, and sage. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Create a Roux – Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add Broth & Simmer – Gradually pour in the vegetable broth, stirring to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer.
- Add Vegetables – Stir in broccoli, corn, and diced potatoes. Let simmer until the potatoes are tender (about 10-12 minutes).
- Finish with Cream & Cheese – Reduce heat to low, then stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve & Enjoy – Ladle into bowls and enjoy warm!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
