Simple Potato Leek Soup
There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of potato leek soup. It feels like home in a bowl: simple, creamy, and deeply satisfying. The blend of mellow leeks and tender potatoes creates a silky texture that tastes far richer than the humble ingredients suggest.
Perfect for cozy evenings, this soup also makes a beautiful starter or light lunch. It comes together with minimal effort, using just a few pantry staples. Whether you serve it rustic and chunky or blended smooth, this soup is a cold-weather classic that never goes out of style.
Why You’ll Love This Simple Potato Leek Soup
This soup is budget-friendly, naturally gluten-free, and easy to customize. You can keep it vegan with veggie broth and olive oil or add richness with a splash of cream or pat of butter. It stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day. Plus, it feeds a crowd without requiring hours in the kitchen.
What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?
Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe. They have a naturally creamy texture and a buttery flavor that blends perfectly with the sweet and mild leeks. Russets will also work if that’s what you have, though they create a slightly fluffier finish. Red potatoes tend to be too waxy and don’t break down as well.
Ingredients for the Simple Potato Leek Soup
The ingredient list is short and sweet, but each component plays an important role. The quality of your leeks and broth will shine through, so aim for fresh and flavorful basics.
- Leeks
- Potatoes
- Garlic
- Olive oil or butter
- Vegetable or chicken broth
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh thyme (optional)
- Heavy cream or milk (optional)

How To Make the Simple Potato Leek Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Leeks
Clean the leeks thoroughly by slicing them lengthwise and rinsing under running water to remove all dirt between the layers. Then slice them thinly.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the leeks and garlic, cooking until the leeks are soft and fragrant, about 8 minutes. Don’t rush this step—the slow cooking brings out their sweetness.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Add the diced potatoes and broth to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 4: Blend (Optional)
For a silky smooth soup, use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender in batches. Or keep it chunky for a more rustic texture—both are delicious.
Step 5: Finish and Season
Stir in the cream if using, and season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Add fresh thyme if you’d like a herby note.
How to Serve and Store Simple Potato Leek Soup
This soup serves about 4 to 6 people as a main course. It pairs well with a piece of crusty bread, a side salad, or even a gooey grilled cheese. Serve it hot, garnished with a swirl of cream, chopped herbs, or crispy onions.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes well—just leave out the cream until you’re ready to reheat and serve. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring to bring back its creamy texture.
What to Serve With Simple Potato Leek Soup?
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
The ultimate cozy pairing. Use sharp cheddar or gruyère for a savory contrast.
Apple Arugula Salad
The peppery greens and crisp apples add brightness that cuts through the richness of the soup.
Roasted Root Vegetables
Carrots, parsnips, or beets roasted with herbs and olive oil complement the earthy flavors.
Savory Scones
Try a cheddar and chive scone on the side for a bakery-worthy meal.
Garlic Butter Croutons
Top the soup with homemade croutons for extra crunch.
Soft Boiled Eggs
Serve alongside for a protein boost and runny yolk goodness.
Herbed Quinoa
Add a small scoop to the bottom of each bowl for texture and extra nutrition.
Bacon Bits or Crispy Chickpeas
Perfect finishing touches that bring a bit of salty crunch.
Want More Soup Ideas?
If you love this simple and satisfying soup, you’ll definitely want to check out these comforting bowls from our collection:
- Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup
- Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Avgolemono
- Zesty Tuscan Artichoke Soup
- Hearty Vegetarian Tortellini Soup
- Hawaiian-Style Chicken Long Rice Soup
Save This Recipe For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you blend it smooth or leave it chunky? Add any special herbs or toppings?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook cozier meals.
Explore beautifully curated cozy soup bowls and more comforting dishes on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new favorites.
Conclusion
Simple Potato Leek Soup is the definition of comfort in a bowl. With just a handful of ingredients and easy steps, it brings warmth, satisfaction, and a sense of nourishment with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself on a quiet night, this recipe promises to deliver cozy flavor and timeless appeal.

Simple Potato Leek Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy Simple Potato Leek Soup recipe is a cozy, comforting dish perfect for cold days. Made with leeks, potatoes, garlic, and optional cream, this easy potato leek soup is gluten-free, budget-friendly, and ideal for lunch or dinner. Learn how to make the best classic potato leek soup with a smooth or rustic texture.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
3 large leeks (white and light green parts only), cleaned and sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
1/2 cup heavy cream or milk (optional)
Instructions
1. Clean the leeks by slicing them lengthwise and rinsing thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Then slice thinly.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and garlic, and cook for about 8 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Add the diced potatoes and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup for a smooth consistency, or leave it chunky for a more rustic version.
5. Stir in the cream or milk if using. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Adjust to taste and serve hot.
Notes
This soup is excellent when made ahead—it tastes even better the next day.
If freezing, skip the cream until reheating for best texture.
For extra flavor, sauté the leeks with a pinch of chili flakes or nutmeg.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg


