One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup Recipe

There is nothing quite as comforting on a chilly day as a warm, velvety bowl of One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup. This recipe brings together vibrant vegetables, fragrant herbs, and rich cheese in a way that’s both nourishing and indulgent. It’s a brilliantly simple dish that manages to be hearty yet fresh, perfect for anyone who loves cozy meals packed with flavor and texture. You’ll adore how every spoonful feels like a warm hug, with the creamy base harmonizing beautifully with the crisp veggies and delicate seasoning.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup just right is all about fresh, wholesome ingredients that create layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role in crafting a soup that’s rich, colorful, and utterly satisfying.

• Butter: Six tablespoons add a silky richness and help soften the aromatics for a lush base.
• White onion: Diced to bring sweetness and depth as it cooks down translucent.
• Carrots: Chopped carrots lend subtle earthiness and a touch of natural sweetness.
• Celery: Provides a fresh, slightly peppery crunch and beautifully balances richer flavors.
• Garlic: Six minced cloves infuse the soup with warm, savory notes that lift the entire dish.
• Dried oregano: Two teaspoons add a hint of Mediterranean earthiness.
• Dried thyme: Two teaspoons contribute gentle floral and herbal undertones.
• Dried sage: One teaspoon offers a subtle, comforting woodsy aroma.
• Flour: One-third cup, to thicken the soup and create that creamy, luscious texture.
• Vegetable broth: Six cups as the hearty liquid base to bring all flavors together.
• Broccoli: Two cups of bite-sized florets add vibrant color and a mild crunch.
• Corn: One 15-ounce can, drained, for bursts of sweet juiciness and texture.
• Potatoes: Three cups diced 3/4-inch thick pieces create a comforting, filling body to the soup.
• Heavy cream: Half a cup to enrich the soup, making it silky without being heavy.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Four ounces shredded, adding a tangy depth and irresistible creamy melt.
• Balsamic vinegar: One teaspoon for a subtle brightness that balances the creaminess.
• Kosher salt, fresh cracked pepper: Season to bring out and harmonize the flavors.
• Fresh chopped parsley: For a bright, herbaceous finish that wakes up each spoonful.
• Shredded cheese and oyster crackers: Optional toppings that bring texture and extra cheesy deliciousness.

How to Make One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by melting six tablespoons of butter in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Then add the diced white onion, chopped carrots, and celery along with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Raise the heat slightly to medium-high and cook the vegetables, stirring occasionally for about ten minutes. You want the onions to become translucent and the vegetables to soften, releasing their natural sweetness — this step sets the foundation for the soup’s vibrant flavor.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Herbs

Turn the heat down to medium and stir in the minced garlic with the dried oregano, thyme, and sage. Cook for just another minute, stirring frequently to make sure the garlic doesn’t burn. These herbs will infuse the soup with warm, earthy aromas that perfectly complement the fresh vegetables.

Step 3: Create the Roux

Sprinkle in the flour and stir thoroughly to coat all the vegetables. Continue cooking for one more minute, stirring constantly. This step helps thicken the soup later, giving it that indulgently creamy texture we all crave in a great vegetable soup.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in a hearty splash of vegetable broth and use your spoon to scrape up all the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This deglazing process adds those deeper toasted notes to your soup, boosting the overall taste.

Step 5: Add Remaining Vegetables and Broth

Now stir in the diced potatoes, drained corn, broccoli florets, and the rest of the vegetable broth. Add a couple more pinches of kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper. Cover the pot, turn the heat up to medium-high, and bring everything to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Simmer Until Tender

Once bubbling, reduce heat to low and keep the pot covered. Let the soup simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally so the potatoes don’t stick, until they are fork-tender. This step melds all the flavors together while softening the starchy goodness of the potatoes.

Step 7: Finish with Cream, Cheese, and Vinegar

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the heavy cream, shredded sharp cheddar, and a splash of balsamic vinegar. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup feels luxuriously creamy. This last addition brings harmony and a subtle tang that lifts the entire dish.

How to Serve One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup

Garnishes

To make your One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup truly special, finish it with a generous sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and extra shredded cheddar cheese. If you love contrast in texture, add a handful of oyster crackers to give each spoonful a delightful crunch that complements the silky broth.

Side Dishes

This soup is a wonderful main by itself, but you can also serve it alongside a crusty loaf of bread or a fresh green salad for a balanced, satisfying meal. Garlic bread or warm soft rolls are excellent choices that let you soak up every last bit of that creamy goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a bit of fun, serve your soup in rustic bread bowls or drizzle a little extra cream or herb oil on top for a beautiful finishing touch. You can also add a swirl of pesto or a few toasted nuts for added layers of flavor and texture that impress guests and family alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps wonderfully for up to 4 days, and the flavors actually develop a bit more as it chills, making the next day even better.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Keep in mind that the texture of cream and cheese-based soups can change slightly after freezing, but a good stir and gentle reheating bring it back to life.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring often to prevent scorching. You might want to add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick. Avoid boiling to keep the cream from breaking and to maintain the soup’s smooth texture.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables in the One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup?

Absolutely! This soup is very versatile. Try adding zucchini, cauliflower, or even green beans. Just keep the texture and cooking times in mind so everything cooks evenly and remains deliciously tender.

Is it possible to make this soup vegan?

Yes, you can easily make a vegan version by substituting the butter with olive oil, using coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream, and choosing a plant-based cheese alternative or omitting cheese entirely.

How thick should the soup be?

This soup is creamy but still has a pleasant spoonable thickness with visible chunks of vegetables. If you prefer it thinner, add more broth during cooking, or if you want it thicker, let it simmer uncovered for longer or add a bit more flour when sautéing.

Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the soup up to Step 6, then cool it and refrigerate before finishing with cream, cheese, and vinegar right before serving. This keeps the final flavors vibrant and fresh.

What can I use instead of oyster crackers?

If you don’t have oyster crackers, try crunching up some toasted bread crumbs, croutons, or even crispy roasted chickpeas for a lovely crunchy topping.

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup is a true crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with rich, layered flavor in the best way possible. Once you make it, I’m confident it will become a treasured recipe in your kitchen — perfect for nourishing yourself or impressing friends with an effortlessly delicious meal. So grab your pot, gather those fresh ingredients, and dive into this heartwarming, creamy bowl of pure comfort.

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