Creamy Sweet Potato Soup

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of Creamy Sweet Potato Soup on a chilly winter evening. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of sautéed onions and garlic filled my kitchen, instantly creating a cozy atmosphere. It was a chilly day, and I had invited some friends over for dinner. As the soup simmered, I anxiously waited for them to arrive, imagining the warmth and laughter we would share over my creation. The vibrant orange hue of the sweet potatoes against the rich creaminess made my heart swell with pride. When they finally tasted it, their delighted expressions confirmed that this soup was a winner. Since then, it has become a staple in my home, especially during the cold months. The creamy texture and the hint of smoked paprika make it irresistible. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, one that I love to share with friends and family, bringing everyone together in the spirit of warmth and good food.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Creamy Sweet Potato Soup

The ingredients for Creamy Sweet Potato Soup come together beautifully to create a comforting and satisfying dish. The star of the show is undoubtedly the sweet potatoes, which provide a natural sweetness and creamy texture once blended. Paired with aromatic vegetables and rich dairy, this soup is a delightful treat.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: This is used as a base for sautéing, adding richness and flavor.
• 1 tablespoon butter: Adds a creamy texture and enhances the flavor profile.
• 1 medium onion: Chopped to infuse the soup with sweetness and depth.
• 3 sticks celery: Chopped for a subtle crunch and flavor boost.
• 4 cloves garlic: Minced to add aromatic depth and richness.
• 4 cups chicken broth (or veg broth): The base of the soup; use homemade or store-bought for convenience.
• 2 pounds sweet potatoes: Peeled and chopped; the main ingredient that brings sweetness and creaminess.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a warm, smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the potatoes.
• 1/3 cup sour cream: Optional, adds tanginess and creaminess.
• 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream: Optional, gives the soup a luxurious texture.
• Salt & pepper: To taste, essential for seasoning.

Cooking Instructions for Creamy Sweet Potato Soup

Making Creamy Sweet Potato Soup is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and hearty soup that warms the soul.

1. Add the olive oil and butter to a soup pot over medium-high heat. Let it melt and blend together, creating a wonderful base for your soup.
2. Next, sauté the onion and celery for about 7 to 10 minutes until they become tender and start to brown lightly. This step enhances their sweetness and adds depth to your soup.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, allowing the aromatic flavors to come alive. You’ll want to keep an eye on it so the garlic doesn’t burn.
4. Now, it’s time to add in the chicken broth and the chopped sweet potatoes. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika as well. Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil, which will help the sweet potatoes cook faster.
5. Once boiling, cover the pot with the lid slightly open, and reduce the heat to let it simmer rapidly for 25 to 30 minutes. You want the sweet potatoes to be soft enough to blend easily.
6. After that, carefully blend the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender (make sure to let it cool a bit first if using a regular blender). Blend until it reaches a creamy consistency, paying attention to the texture.
7. Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. You’ll notice how much creamier the soup becomes with the addition of these ingredients.
8. If the soup is too thick, thin it out with a bit more broth until you reach your desired consistency. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary, perhaps adding more cream or sour cream if you like it richer.
9. Finally, serve the soup hot, garnished with a drizzle of cream or your favorite toppings. Enjoy every delicious spoonful!

Variations to Try

If you’re looking to mix things up with your Creamy Sweet Potato Soup, here are some exciting variations to consider! Each one brings a unique twist to this beloved dish.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a spicy version. The heat pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch. Fresh herbs added just before serving can enhance the flavor.
• Coconut Cream: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a tropical twist. It’ll add a hint of sweetness and a lovely fragrance.
• Roasted Garlic: Instead of using raw garlic, roast it first for a sweeter, more mellow flavor that will enrich your soup.
• Nutty Flavor: Top your soup with roasted pumpkin seeds or chopped walnuts for extra crunch and a nutty flavor contrast.
• Cheesy Delight: Stir in some shredded cheese, like cheddar or gouda, for a creamy and cheesy variation that will melt beautifully into the soup.
• Vegetable Medley: Add diced carrots or parsnips for additional flavor and texture. This makes the soup even heartier and more colorful.

Great Combinations for Creamy Sweet Potato Soup

Serving Creamy Sweet Potato Soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various combinations. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Crusty Bread: Pair your soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread or a baguette for dipping. It’s perfect for soaking up every last drop!
• Salad Side: A fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the creaminess of the soup beautifully.
• Family Gatherings: This soup is perfect for gatherings, especially during winter holidays like Thanksgiving. It warms everyone up and makes for a great appetizer.
• Brunch Delight: Serve it as a starter at brunch alongside quiches or frittatas, where the flavors will harmonize perfectly.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It reheats beautifully!
• Freezing: You can freeze the soup for up to three months. Just make sure to leave out any cream until reheating for the best texture.
• Seasonal Pairing: Enjoy this soup with a side of roasted vegetables in the winter for a hearty meal that embraces the season’s produce.

FAQ

Conclusion

This Creamy Sweet Potato Soup is the embodiment of comfort and warmth, making it a must-try dish for anyone looking to brighten up their winter meals. I encourage you to give this recipe a go—it’s simple, delicious, and sure to bring joy to your table. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or savoring it solo, this soup will undoubtedly warm your heart!

Creamy Sweet Potato Soup

The ultimate comfort food that warms you from the inside out! This Creamy Sweet Potato Soup is rich, velvety, and easy to make. Packed with nutrients and flavor, it’s perfect for chilly nights. Try it tonight for a bowl of warmth and happiness!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Soups

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 medium onion chopped
• 3 sticks celery chopped
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 4 cups chicken broth (or veg broth)
• 2 pounds sweet potatoes peeled & chopped
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/3 cup sour cream optional, see note
• 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream optional, see note
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Saucepan
• Blender
• Skillet
• Peeler
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. Add the olive oil and butter to a soup pot over medium-high heat. Let it melt and blend together, creating a wonderful base for your soup.
2. Next, sauté the onion and celery for about 7 to 10 minutes until they become tender and start to brown lightly. This step enhances their sweetness and adds depth to your soup.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, allowing the aromatic flavors to come alive. You’ll want to keep an eye on it so the garlic doesn’t burn.
4. Now, it’s time to add in the chicken broth and the chopped sweet potatoes. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika as well. Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil, which will help the sweet potatoes cook faster.
5. Once boiling, cover the pot with the lid slightly open, and reduce the heat to let it simmer rapidly for 25 to 30 minutes. You want the sweet potatoes to be soft enough to blend easily.
6. After that, carefully blend the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender (make sure to let it cool a bit first if using a regular blender). Blend until it reaches a creamy consistency, paying attention to the texture.
7. Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. You’ll notice how much creamier the soup becomes with the addition of these ingredients.
8. If the soup is too thick, thin it out with a bit more broth until you reach your desired consistency. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary, perhaps adding more cream or sour cream if you like it richer.
9. Finally, serve the soup hot, garnished with a drizzle of cream or your favorite toppings. Enjoy every delicious spoonful!

Notes

• Tip 1: I recommend cutting the sweet potatoes fairly small so they cook faster (no larger than 1″ pieces or so).
• Tip 2: I love the tanginess the sour cream adds to this soup, and you can’t beat the creaminess of heavy cream. The combo makes this soup deliciously silky and offsets some of the sweetness of the potatoes.
• Tip 3: You can play with the quantities, omit one or both of the creams altogether, or swap for a cup or so of coconut milk if desired.
• Tip 4: This recipe serves 4 to 6 depending on portion size.

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Meet Margot Vance

Founding Savor Feasts was my way of celebrating the art of generous cooking. I believe that food should be abundant, flavorful, and memorable. I personally cook, test, and photograph our recipes to ensure they bring a sense of occasion to your table, whether it is a simple dinner or a grand holiday celebration.