If you’re craving something hearty, comforting, and totally satisfying without any meat, you’ve got to try this Creamy Vegetarian Potato Soup Recipe. I absolutely love how this turns out — it’s smooth, velvety, and packed with warm flavors that will make you feel right at home, especially on chilly days. Whether you want a quick weeknight meal or a luscious snack to curl up with, this soup is fan-freaking-tastic and crazy easy to pull together. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll keep coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple, wholesome ingredients: You probably already have most of these in your kitchen, making it an easy go-to.
- No bacon, all flavor: Perfect if you want to skip meat without sacrificing that cozy potato soup vibe.
- Creamy without heavy cream: The yogurt adds just the right tang and silkiness, keeping it lighter but still indulgent.
- Family-approved comfort food: My crew goes nuts for this, and I bet yours will too!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Creamy Vegetarian Potato Soup Recipe plays a role in building layers of flavor and texture — from the aromatic veggies to the creamy finish. Plus, I’ve added some tips to make shopping easier and your soup tastier.
- Butter: I use unsalted so I can control the saltiness better, but you can use salted if that’s what you have.
- Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth; chopping it finely helps it melt into the soup beautifully.
- Garlic clove: Just one clove gives a subtle kick without overpowering the mellow potatoes.
- Celery stalk: Provides a nice crunch and fresh, herbal notes to balance the soup.
- Carrot: Offers a subtle sweetness and vibrant color that brightens the bowl.
- Russet potatoes: Starchy and perfect for soup as they break down to create natural creaminess.
- Salt: Essential for bringing out those flavors; be generous but taste as you go.
- Vegetable broth: Or chicken broth if you’re okay with it; it’s the base that makes this soup cozy and savory.
- Milk: Whole milk works best for creaminess, but any milk you prefer or even water can be used.
- Plain yogurt: This is the secret weapon for a tangy creaminess without heavy cream’s richness.
Variations
I like to switch things up depending on what I have on hand or the mood we’re in. This Creamy Vegetarian Potato Soup Recipe is super versatile—you can make it your own in no time.
- Add herbs: I’ve tossed in fresh thyme or rosemary once in a while, and it adds a wonderful earthy note that takes this soup to the next level.
- Use different potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes will work too, though you might get a slightly different texture.
- Spice it up: A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne can add warmth if you like a bit of a kick.
- Dairy-free option: Swap the milk and yogurt for coconut milk or a plant-based yogurt—you might lose some tang, but it’s still delicious.
How to Make Creamy Vegetarian Potato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics to Start with Flavor
Start by melting the butter over medium heat in a big pot. Toss in your chopped onion and garlic, cooking for about 3 minutes until the onions turn translucent and sweet. This step is so crucial because it builds the soup’s flavor base. Then add the chopped celery and carrot, letting them soften for another 2 minutes. You’ll notice the kitchen already smells amazing—and that’s exactly what you want.
Step 2: Add Potatoes, Broth, and Milk—Bring It to a Boil
Next, add your cubed potatoes and sprinkle in the salt—don’t be shy with it since potatoes need a generous pinch. Pour in the vegetable broth and milk, then crank up the heat to high. Wait for everything to reach a boil. This is when those potatoes absorb all the cozy flavors.
Step 3: Simmer and Mash: The Creamy Magic Happens
Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender enough for a fork to slip through easily. Once that’s done, grab a spatula and gently mash some of the potatoes right in the pot. This helps create that dreamy creamy texture you want without needing heavy cream.
Step 4: Stir in Yogurt and Serve Warm
Remove the pot from heat and swirl in the plain yogurt for tangy silkiness. Give it a good stir, taste for salt, then ladle it into your favorite bowls. I promise, this is where the magic really shines. Serve piping hot and enjoy every spoonful!
Pro Tips for Making Creamy Vegetarian Potato Soup Recipe
- Use Russet Potatoes: Their starchy quality helps the soup thicken naturally without needing flour or cream.
- Don’t Over-Boil: Keep an eye on the potatoes so they get tender but don’t fall apart completely unless you want that extra creamy texture.
- Yogurt at the End: Adding yogurt off the heat prevents curdling and keeps the soup perfectly smooth.
- Season as You Go: Taste after adding salt and broth, then adjust at the end for balanced seasoning.
How to Serve Creamy Vegetarian Potato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
I usually keep the garnish simple because the soup is already packed with flavor. Fresh chopped chives or parsley add a pop of color and brightness. Sometimes, a sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar or a few crunchy croutons on top work wonders if you want a little more texture and richness.
Side Dishes
Try pairing this soup with crusty bread or garlic toast—you’ll want something to soak up every creamy bite. A simple green side salad with lemon vinaigrette complements it nicely to keep everything balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual dinner party, I’ve served this soup in mini bread bowls—super fun and extra cozy! Garnish with a dollop of yogurt and some crispy fried shallots or toasted pumpkin seeds for a little crunch that dazzles your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of water or milk to loosen it up if needed. It warms back up beautifully without losing its creamy texture.
Freezing
This soup freezes well if you want to batch cook. Just cool it completely, then pop it into freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When thawing, reheat slowly and stir often to bring back that lovely creamy consistency.
Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If the soup seems too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to get it back to your preferred consistency. Avoid microwaving unless you stir halfway through to keep it even.
FAQs
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Can I make this Creamy Vegetarian Potato Soup Recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Just swap the butter for olive oil or a vegan butter alternative, use plant-based milk like almond or oat, and replace the yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt or coconut cream. You’ll still get delicious creaminess and flavor.
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Is it okay to use a blender for a smoother soup?
Yes! If you prefer a silky smooth texture, you can blend part or all of the soup after the potatoes are tender. Just be careful when blending hot liquids—let it cool slightly and blend in batches to avoid splatters.
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Can I add other veggies to this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in corn, peas, or even chopped spinach toward the end of cooking for extra veggies. Just adjust cooking times accordingly so everything stays tender but not mushy.
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What can I use if I don’t have plain yogurt?
If you’re out of plain yogurt, sour cream or crème fraîche work well as substitutes, delivering similar tang and creaminess. Just add gently after removing the soup from the heat to avoid curdling.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Vegetarian Potato Soup Recipe quickly became one of my absolute favorites—and I’m so happy to share it with you. It’s straightforward, comforting, and incredibly satisfying without any complicated ingredients or steps. I hope you enjoy making it as much as my family does. There’s just something special about a warm bowl of homemade potato soup that hits the spot every time. Give it a try and let me know how you and your loved ones like it!
Print
Creamy Vegetarian Potato Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and flavorful Potato Soup without bacon, featuring sautéed vegetables, tender russet potatoes, and a creamy yogurt finish. This hearty soup is perfect for a cozy meal and is easy to prepare on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1/2 small-medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, pressed or finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, chopped (about 1/2 cup)
- 1 large carrot, chopped (about 1/2 cup)
- 3-4 medium-large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2 – 1 inch cubes (about 3.5 – 4 cups)
Liquids & Fats
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 3 cups milk (or water)
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt (4 tablespoons)
Seasonings
- 2 pinches of salt (generous)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for about 3 minutes until the onion starts to become translucent.
- Add Celery and Carrot: Stir in the chopped celery and carrot and continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
- Add Potatoes and Liquids: Add the peeled and cubed potatoes to the pot, sprinkle in the salt, then pour in the vegetable broth and milk. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer Soup: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer gently for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork tender.
- Mash and Finish: Using the back of a spatula or a potato masher, mash the potatoes slightly to achieve a creamy texture. Remove the pot from heat, stir in the plain yogurt until well combined, and serve warm.
Notes
- This potato soup is a delightful bacon-free alternative, still delivering rich and comforting flavors.
- You can substitute milk with water for a lighter version, but milk adds creaminess.
- The texture can be adjusted by mashing more or less, according to your preference.
- For added flavor, herbs such as chives or parsley can be sprinkled on top before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 337 kcal
- Sugar: 13 g
- Sodium: 609 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 43 mg