Name: Classic French Potato Leek Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 3 large leeks; 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil; 2 cloves garlic; 1 ½ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; Chopped chives (for garnish, optional)

Creamy, comforting, and subtly elegant, Classic French Potato Leek Soup is the ultimate soul-warming dish for chilly evenings. Made with just a handful of humble ingredients, it transforms simple pantry staples into a silky-smooth bowl of luxury. This timeless recipe delivers rich flavors and velvety texture with every spoonful.

Perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned home chefs, this soup is incredibly easy to prepare. It brings together the sweetness of gently sautéed leeks and the earthiness of golden potatoes, all blended into a lusciously smooth finish. Pair it with crusty bread, and you have yourself a cozy French bistro moment right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Classic French Potato Leek Soup

This soup is the epitome of simplicity and elegance. It’s naturally gluten-free, uses no cream, and can be made entirely vegan with a few easy swaps. The flavor is deeply comforting without being heavy, and it reheats beautifully for make-ahead lunches or quick weeknight dinners.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

Yukon Golds are ideal because of their creamy texture and buttery flavor. They break down perfectly without turning gummy. If you can’t find Yukon Gold, go for other waxy varieties like white or red potatoes. Avoid russet potatoes as they can become grainy when blended.

Ingredients for the Classic French Potato Leek Soup

Each ingredient plays a special role in building the signature creamy flavor of this comforting soup.

Leeks – The heart of the soup! They bring a gentle onion flavor that’s mild and sweet.
Yukon Gold potatoes – These provide the perfect creamy consistency without needing dairy.
Butter or olive oil – Adds richness; use olive oil for a vegan version.
Garlic – A hint of garlic enhances the savory depth.
Vegetable broth – The base of the soup that carries all the flavor.
Salt & pepper – Essential seasonings to bring everything to life.
Chives (optional) – For a fresh pop of color and flavor when serving.

How To Make the Classic French Potato Leek Soup

Step 1: Clean and Prep the Leeks

Cut the leeks lengthwise and rinse them thoroughly to remove dirt hiding between layers. Slice the white and light green parts into thin rounds.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, melt butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Add leeks and cook for about 10 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Add diced potatoes, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Blend Until Creamy

Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, blend in batches using a countertop blender. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly chopped chives, a drizzle of olive oil, or cracked black pepper.

How to Serve and Store Classic French Potato Leek Soup

This soup is best served warm, ideally with a slice of crusty baguette or a sprinkle of shredded cheese. It feeds about 4 to 6 people generously. Perfect for lunch, a starter course, or a light dinner.

To store, let the soup cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

What to Serve With Classic French Potato Leek Soup?

Crusty French Baguette

The classic companion – crisp on the outside, soft on the inside.

Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs

Add a punch of protein and flavor with these gooey, savory bites. Try the recipe here: Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs

Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells

Rich and hearty, they round out your meal beautifully.

A Hearty and Comforting Tuscan Bean Soup

Double down on soup night with another creamy favorite.

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serve side-by-side for a soup sampler experience.

Avocado Egg and Chickpea Salad

Bright, zesty, and refreshing, this salad brings balance to the table.

Want More Soup Ideas?

If you love this Classic French Potato Leek Soup, check out more soul-soothing recipes on Nora Nosh:

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add cream or keep it dairy-free? Did you try tossing in fresh herbs?

I love hearing your creative takes on the classics. Questions welcome, too!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting soups and feel-good recipes on Nora Nosh Recipes and discover your next favorite bowl!

Classic French Potato Leek Soup

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Nora
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 to 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Looking for the perfect cozy bowl to warm up your week? This Classic French Potato Leek Soup is your answer. Silky, smooth, and subtly rich, it’s made with simple pantry staples but delivers bistro-level flavor. No cream needed—just potatoes, leeks, and some gentle simmering to achieve this velvety delight. Whether you’re after a quick lunch, an easy dinner idea, or a healthy snack, this satisfying soup fits right into any comfort food lineup. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan. Add it to your list of go-to easy recipes and enjoy a nourishing meal with French charm.