Creamy Vegetable Soup Recipe

If you’re craving something warm, comforting, and packed with the goodness of fresh veggies, I’ve got just the thing for you. This Creamy Vegetable Soup Recipe has been my go-to when I want a cozy meal that feels like a big, soothing hug in a bowl. Trust me, it’s fan-freaking-tastic — rich, velvety, and loaded with vibrant veggies you’ll love.

💛

Why This Recipe Works

  • Rich, Balanced Flavors: The combination of butter, olive oil, and aromatic herbs enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
  • Perfect Creamy Texture: The flour and milk blend creates a soup that’s luscious but not too heavy or gummy.
  • Easy to Customize: You can swap veggies or spices to suit what you have on hand or your taste preferences.
  • Quick and Fuss-Free: This soup comes together in about 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight meals or last-minute guests.

Ingredients & Why They Work

The beauty of this Creamy Vegetable Soup Recipe lies in its fresh and frozen vegetable mix—a great way to get both texture and nutrition. Each ingredient contributes a layer of flavor while making the soup hearty and satisfying. Make sure to choose fresh veggies when possible and quality broth for the best taste.

Creamy Vegetable Soup, vegetable soup recipe, healthy creamy soup, easy vegetable soup, comfort food recipes - Flat lay of diced white onion, sliced celery ribs, whole bright orange carrots, minced garlic cloves, fresh green beans, sliced brown mushrooms, vibrant green broccoli florets, and golden yellow corn kernels, all beautifully arranged with sprigs of dried thyme and oregano scattered artfully, placed on a white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7
  • Salted Butter: Adds richness and helps soften the veggies; I prefer salted for a little seasoning boost.
  • Olive Oil: Complements the butter with a subtle fruity note and helps with sautéing without burning.
  • White Onion: Gives a mild, sweet base flavor—don’t skip this, it’s foundational.
  • Celery: Adds a fresh, slightly peppery crunch and aroma.
  • Carrots: Bring natural sweetness that balances the herbs and broth.
  • Minced Garlic: Uplifts the entire flavor profile with a savory punch.
  • Frozen Cut Green Beans: Convenient and retain good texture after cooking.
  • Sliced Mushrooms: Add umami depth and earthiness.
  • Frozen Broccoli Florets: Brightens the soup with subtle bitterness and vibrant color.
  • Frozen or Canned Corn Kernels: Sweet little bursts that add complexity and texture.
  • Dried Thyme & Oregano: Essential herbs that bring warmth and an herbal lift.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Key to thickening the soup gently without clumping.
  • Whole Milk: Provides creaminess and richness; I always recommend whole milk for that silky mouthfeel.
  • Vegetable Broth: Enhances all the flavors and keeps it perfectly savory without being heavy.
  • Salt & Black Pepper: Season to taste, but don’t shy away — these make the flavors pop!
📝
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love that this creamy vegetable soup makes such a fantastic base for customization. You can tweak it based on what’s in season or whatever you have lurking in your fridge. Don’t hesitate to experiment — that’s part of the fun!

  • Grain-Free Variation: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch; I’ve had great luck with this when friends have gluten sensitivities.
  • Make it Vegan: Use a plant-based butter and milk such as oat or cashew milk, and swap vegetable broth with a homemade vegan one to keep it hearty.
  • Seasonal Veggies: Try adding zucchini, sweet potatoes, or kale depending on the time of year — I love throwing in whatever my farmers market has fresh.
  • Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a mild kick; it’s a nice surprise if you like a little heat.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy Vegetable Soup Recipe

Step 1: Soften the Veggies

Start by heating your butter and olive oil together in a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. I find this combo gives the best flavor and prevents burning. Once melted, toss in diced onions, sliced celery, and carrots. Cook these for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onions look translucent and everything starts to soften—stir occasionally so nothing sticks. This step is crucial because it builds the foundation of your soup’s flavor.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Mixed Veggies

Now stir in the minced garlic and the rest of your veggies — frozen green beans, sliced mushrooms, broccoli florets, and corn kernels. Cook everything together for another 2 to 3 minutes so the ingredients marry and garlic becomes fragrant but doesn’t burn. This bit always makes my kitchen smell heavenly!

Step 3: Season and Thicken

Sprinkle the dried thyme, oregano, and flour over the veggies, and stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes. The flour needs a little time to cook so your soup won’t be floury later. This step builds that silky creaminess we crave.

Step 4: Pour in Liquids and Simmer

Slowly add your milk and vegetable broth, stirring as you pour so the flour mixture blends smoothly without lumps. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Add salt and pepper to your taste, but remember I usually start light and adjust after it cooks for a few minutes. Let it simmer for 6 to 7 minutes until the soup thickens nicely, stirring every now and then so it doesn’t stick.

💡

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Vegetable Soup Recipe

  • Don’t Rush the Sauté: Let the onion and carrots soften properly — it’s key to deep flavor development.
  • Add Liquids Gradually: Pour your milk and broth slowly while stirring to avoid lumps from the flour.
  • Taste Often: Season little by little; you can always add more salt and pepper but can’t take it out if it’s too salty.
  • Use Whole Milk: I’ve tried this with lower-fat options, but whole milk gives the richest, smoothest texture.

How to Serve Creamy Vegetable Soup Recipe

Creamy Vegetable Soup, vegetable soup recipe, healthy creamy soup, easy vegetable soup, comfort food recipes - A white bowl filled with creamy thick soup showing chunks of bright green broccoli, orange carrots, and small pieces of chicken mixed in the white creamy broth. A silver spoon scoops some of the soup, highlighting the texture with visible pepper specks on top, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle my creamy vegetable soup with a handful of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness. Sometimes a little grated Parmesan cheese on top works wonders and adds a nutty savory note. Cracked black pepper over the top right before serving also gives a nice aroma boost.

Side Dishes

Nothing beats a slice of crusty sourdough or a warm, buttery baguette alongside this soup — perfect for dunking. For a heartier meal, I often serve it with a light green salad or some roasted garlic bread. It’s especially great with a grilled cheese sandwich for a nostalgic lunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions or when I want to impress, I serve this creamy vegetable soup in individual bread bowls — it’s rustic and totally Instagram-worthy. I’ve also layered it with a sprinkle of chili flakes and a swirl of cream for a pretty café-style finish. Little edible flowers or microgreens can make it feel fancy without any fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and it usually lasts me about 3 to 4 days. When storing, let the soup cool to room temperature first to avoid condensation inside the container, which can dilute flavors. Reheat gently for the best texture.

Freezing

This creamy vegetable soup freezes like a champ. I portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags, leaving some room for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results. Note that the texture might slightly change if frozen too long, but it still tastes great!

Reheating

Reheat your soup gently over low to medium heat while stirring frequently. If it gets too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up. Avoid microwaving straight from frozen — it can separate the milk and create a grainy texture. Slow and steady wins the race here.

FAQs

  1. Can I make this creamy vegetable soup recipe dairy-free?

    Absolutely! Swap the butter for a plant-based margarine or oil, and use a creamy dairy-free milk like oat, almond, or cashew. Make sure your vegetable broth is also free of dairy or animal products for a fully vegan and dairy-free option.

  2. What if I don’t have all these vegetables on hand?

    Don’t stress! This is a versatile soup, so feel free to substitute veggies based on what you have. Frozen veggies are great too. Just keep in mind textures and cooking times may vary, so add heartier veggies earlier and delicate ones later.

  3. How do I avoid lumps when thickening the soup?

    Make sure to stir constantly when adding flour and cook it for a couple of minutes before adding liquids. Then, pour in the milk and broth slowly while stirring to blend everything smoothly. This method helps prevent clumps and ensures velvety soup.

  4. Can I use low-fat milk or water instead of whole milk?

    You can, but whole milk gives the best creamy texture. Using low-fat milk or water will make the soup lighter but less rich and silky. If you prefer lighter soup, try adding a splash of cream or a thickener like blended potatoes for creaminess.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Creamy Vegetable Soup Recipe is one of those dishes I come back to whenever I want comfort, flavor, and a little dose of home all in one bowl. I hope you find it as satisfying and easy to make as I do — and that it warms your heart and belly on a chilly day. Give it a try, tweak it your way, and enjoy the simple joy of a homemade soup that feels so much more than just dinner.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Creamy Vegetable Soup Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 8 reviews
  • Author: Sarah
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This creamy vegetable soup is a comforting and hearty dish packed with a variety of fresh and frozen vegetables. Perfect for chilly days, it features a smooth and velvety texture thanks to a rich blend of whole milk and vegetable broth, seasoned with thyme and oregano for a flavorful experience.


Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 1 medium white onion diced
  • 3 medium celery ribs sliced
  • 4 medium carrots sliced
  • 6 ounces frozen cut green beans
  • 4 ounces sliced mushrooms
  • 6 ounces frozen broccoli florets
  • 6 ounces frozen corn kernels

Liquids and Fats

  • 2 tablespoons salted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups vegetable broth

Seasonings and Other

  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)


Instructions

  1. Prepare the base: Heat 2 tablespoons of salted butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced celery ribs, and carrots and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion softens, stirring occasionally.
  2. Add vegetables and seasonings: Stir in 1 tablespoon minced garlic, frozen green beans, sliced mushrooms, frozen broccoli florets, and frozen corn kernels. Cook the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes. Then mix in dried thyme, dried oregano, and all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for 1 to 2 minutes to cook the flour and form a roux.
  3. Add liquids and simmer: Slowly pour in whole milk and vegetable broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low to maintain a simmer.
  4. Season and thicken: Taste the soup and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Let it simmer for 6 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup thickens to a creamy consistency.

Notes

  • For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk and use dairy-free butter.
  • If using canned corn instead of frozen, drain it thoroughly before adding.
  • To make the soup thicker, add an extra tablespoon of flour when making the roux.
  • Feel free to swap any vegetables for seasonal favorites or what you have on hand.
  • Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 20 mg

You Might Also Like These Recipes

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star