Potato-Leek Soup with Sage: A Comforting, Hearty Soup
Hey there! On chilly days—or honestly, any day when I want something cozy—I always turn to this *Potato-Leek Soup with Sage*. It’s creamy, rustic, and just the kind of comfort food that warms you from the inside out. If you love simple, earthy flavors with a hint of herbaceous goodness, you’re going to fall hard for this bowl of goodness. Plus, it’s easier to make than you might think, and it’s perfect for meal prep, lazy lunches, or a light dinner with crusty bread.
Why This Soup is a Comfort Classic
There’s something special about the combination of buttery leeks and tender potatoes. They’re humble ingredients, but when they come together with a little broth, garlic, and sage—wow, it transforms into something so luxurious. Sage adds that earthy depth that makes it feel like a big, warm hug. And the best part? It’s naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free too. Total win!
Nutritional Perks of This Soup
This soup isn’t just cozy—it’s nourishing, too. Potatoes are packed with potassium and fiber, while leeks offer prebiotics for gut health. Sage has anti-inflammatory benefits, and if you swap the cream for a dairy-free version, it’s still ultra-satisfying without feeling heavy. It’s one of those dishes that feels indulgent but is secretly good for you.
Tasty Tweaks & Variations
- Vegan Version: Use olive oil instead of butter and unsweetened plant-based milk or cream instead of dairy.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked white beans or shredded chicken at the end for an extra hearty touch.
- Make it chunkier: Blend just half the soup and leave the rest as-is for a mix of smooth and chunky texture.
- Herb swap: Try rosemary or thyme if you’re not into sage—both add an aromatic twist that works beautifully.
Potato-Leek Soup with Sage Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 3 large leeks (white and light green parts only), cleaned and sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 4 cups peeled and cubed potatoes (Yukon golds work great!)
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 to 1 cup milk or cream (dairy or non-dairy)
- Chopped chives or crispy sage leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large soup pot, heat the butter or olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced leeks and cook for about 7–8 minutes, until they’re soft and fragrant. Don’t rush this—it builds flavor!
- Stir in the garlic and chopped sage. Cook for 1 more minute until it smells amazing.
- Add the potatoes, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 20–25 minutes, until the potatoes are soft.
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. You can also transfer it to a blender in batches—just be careful with the hot liquid!
- Stir in the milk or cream. Add more salt and pepper if needed. Let the soup warm through for a couple more minutes, then it’s ready to serve.
- Top with fresh chives, cracked pepper, or crispy sage leaves if you’re feeling fancy!
Helpful Tips for the Best Soup
- Cleaning leeks: Slice them first, then soak in a bowl of water and swish around to remove any dirt hiding in the layers.
- Storing leftovers: This soup keeps really well! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating tip: Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or milk to loosen it back up.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use russet potatoes instead? Yes, but they tend to be starchier and may make the soup a bit thicker. Just add more broth if needed.
- Is it okay to use dried sage? Definitely. Dried sage is more concentrated, so use about 1/3 of the fresh amount.
- Can I make it ahead of time? Absolutely! It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to mingle.
- Do I have to peel the potatoes? It’s up to you! If you’re using Yukon golds or red potatoes with thin skins, you can leave them on for extra fiber and texture.
Let’s Stay Cozy Together!
If you end up trying this *Potato-Leek Soup with Sage*, I’d love to see it! Tag me on Pinterest or your favorite social spot and let me know how it turned out. Save this recipe for the next chilly evening when you need a bowl of something comforting and delicious—you’ll be glad you did!