Name: Classic French Potato Leek Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 large leeks 2 tablespoons butter 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1.5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth 1 bay leaf (optional) 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 2 tablespoons chopped chives or fresh herbs, for garnish 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for drizzling)

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of potato leek soup on a chilly day. I’ve always turned to this Classic French Potato Leek Soup whenever I need a simple, nourishing, and satisfying meal. Its silky texture and delicate flavors make it both humble and elegant — and it’s surprisingly easy to make.

What I love most is how this soup brings out the best in basic ingredients. With just a few pantry staples and fresh produce, you can create something that tastes like it’s straight out of a cozy bistro in the French countryside. Whether you’re making it for a quiet lunch, a starter for dinner, or prepping meals for the week, this soup is a timeless favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Classic French Potato Leek Soup

It’s naturally creamy without needing any heavy cream
Mild, savory flavor that’s kid- and adult-approved
Budget-friendly and made with simple, wholesome ingredients
Cozy, nourishing, and perfect for make-ahead meals
Easy to customize for different diets

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes are the best choice for this soup. They hold their shape well and give the soup a velvety consistency without becoming too starchy. If you prefer a slightly fluffier texture, you can blend in a few Russet potatoes, but be careful not to overdo it, as they can make the soup gluey when over-blended.

Options for Substitutions

Leeks: If you can’t find leeks, substitute with sweet onions or shallots. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
Butter: Use olive oil for a vegan version.
Broth: Vegetable broth is great for a vegetarian version, but chicken broth adds depth and richness.
Cream (optional): While traditional recipes often skip cream, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream, coconut milk, or even cashew cream for added richness.
Herbs: Add a bay leaf while simmering, or finish with fresh thyme or parsley for an herby twist.

Ingredients for this Classic French Potato Leek Soup

Leeks: The star of the dish — their sweet, mild flavor gives the soup its signature taste. Be sure to clean them thoroughly as they often hide dirt between layers.
Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes work best for their creamy texture and rich taste. They blend beautifully without turning gummy.
Butter: Adds depth and richness to the soup while softening the leeks. Swap with olive oil for a vegan-friendly option.
Garlic: Brings subtle warmth and aromatic depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
Vegetable or Chicken Broth: The base of the soup — use high-quality broth for the most flavor.
Bay Leaf: Optional but recommended for an herbal note during simmering.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning — adjust to taste.
Chives or Fresh Herbs (for garnish): Adds color and a fresh, bright finish.

Step 1: Prepare the Leeks

Trim the roots and dark green tops off the leeks, keeping only the white and light green parts. Slice them in half lengthwise, then chop into thin half-moons. Rinse thoroughly in a bowl of water to remove any grit, then drain.

Step 2: Sauté the Leeks and Garlic

In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the cleaned leeks and a pinch of salt. Cook gently for about 8-10 minutes until they soften but don’t brown. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth

Add the peeled and chopped potatoes to the pot. Pour in enough broth to cover the vegetables (about 4-5 cups). Toss in the bay leaf if using. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender.

Step 4: Blend the Soup

Remove the bay leaf. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground pepper. Ladle into bowls, drizzle with olive oil if desired, and top with fresh chives or herbs. Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad.

How Long to Prepare the Classic French Potato Leek Soup

This soup is refreshingly simple and quick to make, making it an ideal choice for weeknights or meal prep.

Preparation Time: Most of your effort will go into cleaning and slicing the leeks, which takes about 10-15 minutes. Peeling and chopping the potatoes adds another 5-10 minutes.

Cooking Time: Once your ingredients are prepped, the actual cook time is around 25-30 minutes — just enough to simmer everything until soft and blend it into creamy perfection.

Tips for Perfect Classic French Potato Leek Soup

Clean leeks thoroughly — dirt often hides in the layers.
Don’t brown the leeks; low, gentle heat ensures a sweet, mellow base.
Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamy, naturally rich texture.
An immersion blender makes blending easier and safer than transferring hot soup.
Finish with a swirl of olive oil or a sprinkle of herbs for a restaurant-style touch.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping leek cleaning: Gritty soup can ruin the experience.
Over-blending Russet potatoes: This can make the soup gluey.
High heat sautéing: It can brown or burn the leeks, making them bitter.
Under-seasoning: Always taste before serving — potatoes absorb a lot of salt.
Blending with the bay leaf still in: Always remove it before puréeing.

What to Serve With Classic French Potato Leek Soup?

1. Crusty French Baguette

Perfect for dipping and soaking up every spoonful of the soup.

2. Simple Green Salad

A fresh side balances the richness of the soup beautifully.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Add depth and color to your meal with seasonal roasted veggies.

4. Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Classic comfort food combo — buttery, melty, and satisfying.

5. Smoked Salmon Toast

Elevate your soup night with something fancy yet easy.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Let the soup cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully on the stove over low heat.

Freezing: This soup freezes well! Let it cool completely, then pour into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently while stirring.

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 1 cup):

Calories: ~180 kcal
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 400mg

Frequently Asked Questions

What part of the leek do I use?

Only use the white and light green parts — the dark green tops are tough and fibrous.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge and the flavors even improve after a day.

Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?

Yes, for the smoothest texture, peeling is recommended — especially if you’re using thicker-skinned varieties.

Can I use water instead of broth?

You can, but you’ll lose some depth of flavor. If using water, add extra herbs and season well.

Do I have to use a blender?

Yes, for the classic velvety texture. An immersion blender is easiest, but a countertop blender works too (blend in batches).

Conclusion

Classic French Potato Leek Soup is the kind of dish that turns simple ingredients into pure comfort. Creamy without cream, rich without being heavy, and endlessly adaptable, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Whether you’re a soup enthusiast or just starting to explore French cuisine, this recipe is a warm, welcoming bowl of goodness that fits any season and any table.