There’s a certain comfort that comes with a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s the kind you can whip up in just one pot. The first time I made this One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup, I was in desperate need of something soothing after a long day. As soon as I walked into the kitchen, the delightful aroma of sautéed garlic and butter enveloped me, instantly lifting my spirits.
What’s truly enchanting about this recipe is how easily it transforms humble ingredients—like carrots, potatoes, and broccoli—into a rich, creamy delight that feels indulgent yet wholesome. It’s a simple solution for those weeknights when you crave homemade comfort without slaving away in the kitchen. Plus, it accommodates everyone’s tastes; even the pickiest eaters usually go back for seconds!
Join me as I share the steps to making this delectable soup that promises to please both the family and your taste buds. Grab your favorite Dutch oven, and let’s create a dish that’s not just a meal but a heartwarming experience!
Why is One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting warmth: This soup is the ultimate cozy hug in a bowl, perfect for cool evenings.
Effortless preparation: With just one pot required, cleanup is a breeze!
Nutritious ingredients: Packed with wholesome vegetables, it’s both delicious and healthy.
Versatile flavors: Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own.
Crowd-pleaser: Its creamy goodness makes it irresistible, ensuring everyone comes back for more!
Quick cooking time: Ready in just 35 minutes, it fits perfectly into your busy weeknight routine.
One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup Ingredients
Cooking this flavorful One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup is easy and quick, making it a perfect addition to your dinner rotation!
For the Soup Base
- Butter – 6 tablespoons – A rich base that enhances the flavors of the whole soup.
- White onion – 1, diced – Adds sweetness and depth; use yellow onion for a different taste.
- Chopped carrots – 1.5 cups – Bring a natural sweetness and vibrant color to your dish.
- Chopped celery – 1.5 cups – Provides a fresh, aromatic crunch, complementing the other vegetables.
- Garlic – 6 cloves, minced – Infuses the soup with a savory aroma; can be adjusted to taste.
For the Seasoning
- Dried oregano – 2 teaspoons – Offers a warm, earthy flavor; fresh can be used for a brighter taste.
- Dried thyme – 2 teaspoons – Adds herbaceous notes; can be swapped with Italian seasoning if desired.
- Dried sage – 1 teaspoon – Contributes a bold flavor; consider fresh sage for a more intense aroma.
For Thickening and Creaminess
- Flour – 1/3 cup – Helps thicken the soup, giving it that creamy texture.
- Vegetable broth – 6 cups – To create a flavorful base; low-sodium options are great for controlling salt.
- Broccoli – 2 cups, chopped in bite-sized pieces – Brings a lush green color and nutrients to the soup.
- Corn – 1 (15 oz.) can, drained – Adds sweetness and texture; feel free to use fresh or frozen corn.
- Diced potatoes – 3 cups (3/4″ thick) – Provides substance and heartiness; any waxy potato will work well.
- Heavy cream – 1/2 cup – Ensures a luxurious creamy finish; light cream can be a lower-calorie option.
- Sharp cheddar cheese – 4 oz., shredded – Melts beautifully into the soup, adding a rich cheesiness.
- Balsamic vinegar – 1 teaspoon – Offers a tangy finish that balances the creaminess.
For Final Seasoning
- Kosher salt – To taste – Essential for enhancing all the flavors; adjust as necessary.
- Fresh cracked pepper – To taste – Adds a comforting warmth; freshly ground provides the best flavor.
Get ready to simmer up this mouthwatering One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup that warms not just your tummy, but your heart too!
How to Make One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup
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Heat Butter
Begin by melting 6 tablespoons of butter in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. This will create a rich and flavorful foundation for your soup. -
Sauté Vegetables
Add 1 diced white onion, 1.5 cups of chopped carrots, and 1.5 cups of chopped celery with a generous pinch of kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent. -
Add Aromatics
Reduce the heat to medium and toss in 6 minced cloves of garlic, 2 teaspoons of dried oregano, 2 teaspoons of dried thyme, and 1 teaspoon of dried sage. Cook for an additional minute while stirring frequently to release those delightful aromas. -
Incorporate Flour
Sprinkle in 1/3 cup of flour, stirring to coat the vegetables thoroughly. Continue cooking for another minute to toast the flour slightly, enhancing the flavor of your soup. -
Deglaze the Pot
Pour in a hearty splash of vegetable broth, scraping any delicious bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This step will build flavor depth that you won’t want to miss! -
Add Remaining Ingredients
Stir in 3 cups of diced potatoes, 1 can of drained corn, 2 cups of chopped broccoli, and the remaining vegetable broth. Season with a couple of additional pinches of salt and pepper for good measure. -
Bring to a Simmer
Cover the pot and turn the heat up to medium-high. Bring your soup to a gentle simmer, which usually takes a few minutes. -
Simmer for Tenderness
Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent any sticking. -
Finish the Soup
Remove the pot from heat, then stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 4 ounces of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and 1 teaspoon of balsamic vinegar until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined. -
Garnish and Serve
Serve your soup warm, garnished with extra parsley, cheddar cheese, and a side of crackers for an extra crunch. Enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness!
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of olive oil for a burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup
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Use Fresh Veggies: Fresh, vibrant vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of your One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup, making it even more delicious.
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Deglaze Properly: When you deglaze the pot, scrape thoroughly to lift those flavorful bits; this enhances the overall taste of your soup.
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Mind the Simmer: Don’t rush! A gentle simmer allows the veggies to become tender, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
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Cream Variations: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter option that still delivers creaminess without losing flavor.
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Season Thoughtfully: Always taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end; this will elevate your One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup to perfection!
What to Serve with One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup?
Transform your comforting bowl of soup into a delightful meal with these flavorful pairings that make every spoonful an experience.
- Savory Grilled Cheese: The gooey, melty cheese pairs perfectly with the creamy soup, bringing warmth and nostalgia to your meal.
- Crispy Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery bread sprinkled with garlic enhances every sip while delivering a satisfying texture contrast.
- Quinoa Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a lemony vinaigrette adds brightness and complements the soup’s richness beautifully.
- Herb-Infused Rice: Delicate rice seasoned with thyme and parsley softens the palette, enhancing the flavors of the soup.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized sprouts give a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness that balances the creamy elements.
- Apple Crisp: Ending on a sweet note, this warm dessert with its gooey filling and crunchy topping rounds out your wholesome meal delightfully.
These pairings not only elevate the experience but also deliver a range of flavors and textures to enjoy with your warming bowl of One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup.
One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup Variations
Feel free to mix things up and let your kitchen creativity shine with these delicious twists!
- Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a rich taste that’s vegan-friendly and adds a subtle sweetness.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken or white beans to enhance heartiness, making it even more filling and nutrient-packed.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of red pepper flakes or hot sauce to fire up the flavor and give your soup a delightful heat.
- Herb Explosion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley as a finishing touch, revitalizing the flavor profile and creating freshness.
- Different Veggies: Substitute or add seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or kale, to keep the dish vibrant and tailored to what’s in your fridge.
- Nutty Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of tahini or almond butter, enriching the soup’s texture and introducing a creamy nuttiness.
- Cheese Variations: Use gouda or pepper jack cheese in place of cheddar for diverse flavor profiles that cater to cheese lovers.
- Grain Addition: Throw in some cooked quinoa or barley for a wholesome grain twist that adds texture and stimulates the taste buds.
With these variations, the possibilities truly are endless—let your culinary instincts run wild!
Make Ahead Options
These One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can chop the vegetables (onion, carrots, celery, broccoli, and potatoes) up to 3 days in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can sauté the aromatics (onion, garlic, and spices) a day before, keeping them covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just combine the prepped ingredients and vegetable broth in your Dutch oven, bring to a simmer, and finish by stirring in the heavy cream and cheese to ensure your soup remains just as delicious as when made fresh. With these simple steps, you’ll have a heartwarming meal ready in no time!
How to Store and Freeze One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup
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Room Temperature: Allow the soup to cool completely before storing. It can sit out for up to 2 hours before transferring to the fridge to ensure maximum freshness.
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Fridge: Store your One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
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Freezer: Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the soup’s consistency, as the cream may thicken when cooled.
One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of vegetables should I use for the One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup?
Absolutely! You can use a variety of fresh or frozen vegetables based on your preferences. For a classic flavor, stick with carrots, celery, and broccoli. However, feel free to get creative with seasonal veggies like zucchini, spinach, or even bell peppers. Just remember to chop them into uniform pieces for even cooking.
How long can I store the soup in the fridge?
Your One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend letting it cool completely before sealing it up to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave—just remember to give it a good stir!
Can I freeze the One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup?
Yes! Freezing is a fantastic way to preserve your delicious soup. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for the soup to expand as it freezes. It should keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding a bit of vegetable broth or water to restore its creamy texture.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If you find that your One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup has become too thick, don’t worry—it’s an easy fix! Simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water and stir until you reach your desired consistency. This will also help revive any creaminess lost during storage or reheating. Always remember to taste as you go for the best flavor!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, this soup can easily be made dairy-free by substituting heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. For gluten-free options, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the soup. Always check labels on vegetable broth and canned corn for allergens.
What should I do with leftover vegetables?
If you have leftover vegetables or even some wilting produce in your fridge, this soup is the perfect solution! Just chop them up and toss them in while the soup is simmering. It’s a great way to reduce waste and add even more flavor and texture to your One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup!
One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup for Cozy Comfort in Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt 6 tablespoons of butter in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add 1 diced white onion, 1.5 cups of chopped carrots, and 1.5 cups of chopped celery. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent.
- Reduce heat to medium and toss in 6 minced cloves of garlic, 2 teaspoons of dried oregano, 2 teaspoons of dried thyme, and 1 teaspoon of dried sage. Cook for an additional minute while stirring frequently.
- Sprinkle in 1/3 cup of flour, stirring to coat the vegetables thoroughly. Continue cooking for another minute.
- Pour in a splash of vegetable broth, scraping any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.
- Stir in 3 cups of diced potatoes, 1 can of drained corn, 2 cups of chopped broccoli, and the remaining vegetable broth. Season with additional salt and pepper.
- Cover the pot and raise the heat to medium-high. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
- Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Remove the pot from heat. Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 4 ounces of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and 1 teaspoon of balsamic vinegar until combined.
- Serve warm, garnished with extra parsley, cheddar cheese, and a side of crackers.