There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s as vibrant and flavorful as cream of celery soup. Picture this: a chilly evening, the sun setting earlier than you’d like, and you’re craving something soothing yet quick to whip up. This recipe captures the essence of fresh, herbal celery, transforming it into a velvety soup that’s perfect for both cozy weeknights and elegant dinner parties.
As I prepared this dish, the aromatic blend of sautéed onions and crisp celery filled my kitchen, immediately lifting my spirits. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll discover how easy it is to create a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef looking for a new favorite or someone who’s simply tired of fast food, this creamy delight is here to impress. Plus, it’s easily customizable—swap in your choice of herbs or make it vegan with a few simple substitutions. So, let’s dive into this recipe and bring a little warmth to your table!
Why is Celery Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting Warmth: There’s nothing like a bowl of creamy soup to warm you from the inside out, especially on a chilly day.
Quick & Easy: This recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights.
Herbaceous Flavor: Fresh celery shines in this dish, offering a vibrant, herbal taste that delights the palate.
Customizable: Whether you want to keep it vegetarian or vegan, there are simple substitutions to make this soup your own.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s an ideal starter for dinner parties or a hearty lunch paired with bread, making it perfect for all occasions.
Nourishing Ingredients: Packed with wholesome veggies, this soup doesn’t just comfort—it nourishes too!
Celery Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Celery – The star of this dish; fresh stalks provide its vibrant, herbal flavor.
• Potato – Creaminess and body come from this essential ingredient; feel free to swap for sweet potato if you desire a hint of sweetness.
• Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; leeks can be used for a milder option.
• Butter – Essential for sautéing and adding richness; substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free choice.
• Chicken Broth – The flavorful liquid base; use vegetable stock for a vegetarian option.
For the Creaminess
• Heavy Cream – This ingredient creates a rich, velvety texture; for a vegan version, cashew or coconut cream works beautifully.
• Fresh Dill – Brightens the soup with an herbaceous quality; swap with tarragon if you’re looking for a different flavor twist.
For Seasoning
• Black Pepper – Adds depth and flavor; adjust to your preference for the perfect bite!
This celery soup is designed to be swift and satisfying, making it a dish you’ll want to savor again and again!
How to Make Celery Soup
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Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped celery, potato, and onion, and sauté until they soften, about 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they start to become translucent and aromatic.
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Add Liquid: Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable stock for a vegetarian version) and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This magic start will blend all those lovely flavors together!
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Cook: Let the mixture simmer until the potatoes are completely tender, which should take about 10 more minutes. You’re looking for a tender, buttery texture!
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Blend: Carefully blend the soup using a high-powered blender or immersion blender until it’s velvety smooth. If using a traditional blender, strain through a fine-mesh strainer for an ultra-creamy finish.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and add a swirl of heavy cream and a sprinkle of black pepper for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy the warmth!
Optional: Garnish with fresh celery leaves for an extra pop of flavor and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cream of Celery Soup?
The allure of a warm bowl of soup is simply irresistible, especially when paired with delightful accompaniments that elevate the experience.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, a loaf of freshly baked sourdough or whole-grain bread enhances the soup’s creamy texture while adding a rustic touch.
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Herb-Infused Oil: A drizzle of rosemary or garlic-infused oil over the soup brings an aromatic layer that beautifully complements the herbaceous celery flavor.
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Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup. Incorporate crunchy apples or nuts for added texture and taste.
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Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic combination of crispy, melty cheese on buttered bread pairs excellently with the smoothness of the soup, offering comfort in every bite.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts add a delightful crunch and a burst of sweet and savory flavor, creating a well-rounded meal.
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Wine Pairings: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio enhances your dining experience with its acidity, cutting through the creaminess of the soup beautifully.
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Savory Muffins: Cheddar or herb muffins make for a satisfying sidekick, adding a different texture while complementing the warm, comforting vibe of the celery soup.
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Dill Yogurt: A dollop of dill-infused yogurt on top creates a tangy contrast that brightens flavors, echoing the fresh herb elements of the soup.
Each pairing supports the creamy essence of the celery soup, ensuring a fulfilling dining experience worth savoring every bite!
Expert Tips for Celery Soup
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Fresh Ingredients: Use crisp, fresh celery and other produce for the best flavor. Old vegetables can make the soup taste flat.
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Blending Methods: For a smooth texture, opt for an immersion blender directly in the pot. If using a traditional blender, blend in batches and ensure the lid is vented to avoid splattering.
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Season to Taste: Always taste and adjust seasoning after blending. The flavors can mellow, so this step ensures your celery soup retains its vibrant personality.
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Cream Alternatives: For a vegan celery soup, use cashew cream or coconut cream for richness instead of heavy cream. This allows everyone to enjoy a comforting bowl!
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Leftover Storage: Store leftover soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months for a quick meal later.
Celery Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own with these fun twists!
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Herb Swaps: Use fresh thyme or chives instead of dill for an exciting flavor twist. Each herb offers a unique depth that brightens this soup.
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Creamy Alternatives: Try silken tofu blended in for a silky texture without heavy cream in vegan versions. It adds protein while keeping your soup creamy and satisfying.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an unexpected kick, bringing warmth and a hint of excitement to your bowl.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in additional vegetables like carrots or cauliflower before blending to enrich the flavor and texture—you’ll never look at celery soup the same way again!
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Nutty Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of tahini for a nutty note and creamy consistency that perfectly complements the herbal base.
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Smoky Essence: Incorporate smoked paprika for a delightful, smoky layer that enhances the soup’s natural sweetness and earthiness.
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Citrusy Zing: A squeeze of lemon juice before serving adds a fresh lift that balances the richness, making each spoonful pleasantly surprising.
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Garnish Ideas: Top with crispy bacon bits or toasted pine nuts for an exciting texture contrast, transforming your soup from simple to sensational.
Explore these variations to tailor the soup to your taste and impress your family at every meal!
How to Store and Freeze Celery Soup
Fridge: Store your celery soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain its creamy texture.
Freezer: Freeze the soup in zip-top bags or airtight containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space for expansion during freezing, and remember to label with the date!
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen celery soup, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or a little cream if it thickens too much.
Leftovers Tip: Celery soup’s flavor often deepens after resting, making it a delightful option for meal prep or a quick grab-and-go lunch!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing this celery soup ahead of time is easy and perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables (celery, potato, and onion) and refrigerate them in an airtight container up to 3 days in advance. Additionally, you can sauté the vegetables and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before adding the broth. This simple prep allows the flavors to meld beautifully! When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply bring the sautéed veggies back to a simmer with the broth, blend until smooth, and finish with cream. This way, you’ll have a comforting, homemade meal with minimal effort!
Cream of Celery Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of celery should I use for the soup?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose fresh, crisp celery stalks. Look for bright green color, and avoid any that have dark spots or wilting leaves, as this can affect the taste of your cream of celery soup.
How long can I store this soup in the refrigerator?
You can store your cream of celery soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before putting it in the fridge to maintain its creamy texture.
Can I freeze cream of celery soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or zip-top freezer bags. Be sure to leave some room for expansion, as the soup will expand when frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
What if my soup turns out too thick or lumpy?
No worries! If your cream of celery soup becomes too thick after blending, simply stir in a bit of chicken broth or water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s lumpy, you can re-blend it or strain it through a fine-mesh strainer for a smoother finish.
Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Very! To make a vegan cream of celery soup, substitute the heavy cream with cashew cream or coconut cream and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This way, everyone can enjoy a deliciously creamy, herbal dish!
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to enhance your cream of celery soup by incorporating other veggies like carrots or cauliflower for added texture and flavor. Just be sure to sauté them along with the celery and onion to bring out their natural sweetness.
Creamy Celery Soup: Quick, Easy, and Perfectly Comforting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped celery, potato, and onion, and sauté until they soften, about 10 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable stock for a vegetarian version) and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Let the mixture simmer until the potatoes are completely tender, about 10 more minutes.
- Carefully blend the soup until it’s velvety smooth.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and add a swirl of heavy cream and sprinkle black pepper before serving.