If you’re craving a cozy bowl of something soul-satisfying, this creamy roasted garlic potato soup is exactly what you need. Made with oven-roasted garlic, sautéed leeks and onions, starchy russet potatoes, and finished with milk, cream, and parmesan, this soup is silky, rich, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re prepping for a chilly night or want a comforting vegetarian option, this soup checks every box.
Don’t miss our Loaded Baked Potato Soup if you’re craving a heartier variation.
Let’s explore what makes this recipe a standout in the world of comfort food, from ingredients to step-by-step techniques.
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Why This Creamy Roasted Garlic Potato Soup Will Be Your New Favorite
Comfort food elevated with roasted garlic
Roasting garlic transforms its flavor. Gone is the pungent bite—what remains is a mellow, caramelized sweetness that infuses every spoonful of this soup with richness. It adds depth without overpowering, creating a harmony that makes this dish unforgettable.
The perfect balance of creamy, hearty, and savory
This isn’t just another potato soup. The use of russet potatoes gives it a naturally thick, almost velvety texture without needing tons of flour or butter. When paired with leeks, onions, milk, and parmesan cheese, you get a soup that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
Vegetarian-friendly but rich in flavor
Using vegetable broth instead of chicken stock turns this into a vegetarian delight without compromising taste. Thanks to umami-heavy ingredients like roasted garlic, parmesan, and sautéed aromatics, it delivers layers of flavor that rival even meat-based soups.
Ingredients That Make All the Difference

Why roasted garlic transforms the flavor
Roasted garlic is the heart of this recipe. A whole head is drizzled with olive oil, wrapped in foil, and roasted until golden and soft. This slow roasting process releases sweet, nutty flavors that blend seamlessly into the creamy soup base. For a bolder garlic punch, feel free to double the amount—yes, it’s that good.
The best potatoes for ultra-creamy texture
Russet potatoes are ideal here. Their high starch content helps thicken the soup naturally, giving it body without making it heavy. They blend beautifully into a smooth consistency once cooked and are easier to work with than waxy varieties like red or new potatoes.
| Potato Type | Texture in Soup | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Russet | Smooth & creamy | Thick soups, purees |
| Yukon Gold | Buttery & soft | Chunky soups |
| Red | Holds shape | Brothy soups |
How dairy and broth create perfect consistency
The combination of whole milk and heavy cream offers a lush mouthfeel without becoming overly rich. Blending that with chicken or vegetable broth lets you control thickness. Start with 4 cups of broth and add up to 1 more if you want it lighter.
Looking for a lighter soup? Check out Creamy Potato Soup Recipe for another variation with fewer ingredients.
Aromatics that deepen the flavor (leeks, onions, thyme)
Leeks and onions are sautéed in butter until caramelized. They provide a savory, slightly sweet base that blends perfectly with the roasted garlic. Add in thyme—fresh if possible—for a subtle herbal layer that rounds out the flavor.
Don’t miss our Cozy German Potato Soup for another take on aromatics and hearty soups.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Creamy Roasted Garlic Potato Soup
Getting that perfect texture and flavor in this soup starts with a few smart techniques. From roasting the garlic to blending the soup to silky perfection, here’s how to master every step of this crave-worthy dish.
Roasting the garlic for rich, mellow flavor
Start by slicing off the top of a whole head of garlic to expose the cloves. Place it on a piece of foil, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and wrap it tightly. Roast in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 40–45 minutes until golden and fragrant. Once it cools, squeeze out the soft cloves like butter. This is your soup’s flavor bomb—don’t skip it!
Prepping and boiling the potatoes right
While the garlic roasts, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add peeled russet potatoes and cook until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly, then cube them. Cooking the potatoes separately ensures they don’t absorb too much broth, preserving that creamy base.
If you love sweet potato soups, learn more about our Roasted Sweet Potato Soup for another hearty alternative.
Sautéing aromatics to build the soup’s base
In a large Dutch oven, melt salted butter and sauté chopped white onions and sliced leeks for 6–8 minutes until soft and lightly golden. This caramelization draws out their natural sweetness and adds complexity. Stir in flour and cook for about a minute to create a light roux that helps thicken the soup.
Add chicken or vegetable broth, milk, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and thyme. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for a few minutes to let the flavors mingle.
Blending tips for that velvety texture
Once your base is rich and aromatic, stir in the cubed potatoes, roasted garlic, and freshly grated parmesan cheese. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth. If you prefer, transfer to a traditional blender in batches. Too thick? Add up to 1 cup more broth for a looser consistency.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Creamy Wild Rice Chicken Soup if you love smooth, hearty textures in your soups.
Garnishing and serving
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with chopped chives, more parmesan, or croutons. For an upscale twist, make quick Gruyère grilled cheese croutons: sandwich grated cheese between two slices of buttered bread, grill until golden, and cube into bite-size toppings. It’s a dreamy match.
Don’t miss our Creamy Gnocchi Soup with Bacon for another rich and filling dish that layers textures beautifully.
Tips to Make This Soup Even Better
Best toppings: croutons, cheese, chives
While the soup is already rich and flavorful on its own, toppings take it over the top. Try:
- Gruyère grilled cheese croutons – A crunchy, cheesy finish
- Crackers or garlic toast – Adds texture and contrast
- Fresh chives or scallions – A bright, oniony pop
- Extra parmesan – Enhances the nutty, creamy base
These small additions can make your soup look and taste restaurant-quality.
How to store and reheat leftovers
Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, use the stovetop on low to medium heat, stirring often. Add a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much. Avoid high heat, which can cause separation in the dairy.
For longer storage, freeze in individual containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
Substitutions for dairy-free or vegan versions
It’s easy to adapt this soup:
- Use unsweetened almond milk or oat milk in place of dairy milk
- Substitute coconut cream or cashew cream for heavy cream
- Choose nutritional yeast instead of parmesan
- Use olive oil instead of butter
- Stick to vegetable broth to keep it vegan
These swaps will keep the soup creamy without sacrificing flavor.
Making it ahead for busy weekdays
This soup holds up beautifully for meal prep. Roast the garlic, boil the potatoes, and prep the leeks a day or two ahead. Combine everything the day you want to serve, blend, and enjoy fresh flavor with minimal effort.
Serving Ideas to Make It a Full Meal
Pairing with crusty breads or sandwiches
Soup and bread are a classic match. Try:
- Artisan sourdough
- Garlic focaccia
- Warm baguette with olive oil
Or serve it with a melty grilled cheese for maximum comfort.
Salads that balance the richness
Balance the creaminess with something crisp:
- Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Apple walnut salad
- Kale Caesar with crunchy croutons
The contrast in textures and temperatures makes for a satisfying, well-rounded meal.
Beverage pairings: wine, cider, or herbal teas
For drinks, think cozy and light:
- Dry white wine (like Chardonnay)
- Hot apple cider
- Chamomile or mint tea
Each of these enhances the soup’s mellow, savory notes.
FAQs About Creamy Roasted Garlic Potato Soup
What is the best potato to use for creamy soup?
Russet potatoes are ideal for creamy soups. They break down easily and help thicken the soup naturally without added thickeners.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Use plant-based milk, dairy-free cream substitutes, and olive oil instead of butter. Nutritional yeast works well in place of parmesan cheese.
Can I freeze roasted garlic potato soup?
Absolutely. Let the soup cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
How do I thicken potato soup without flour?
Rely on the starch from the potatoes themselves. Blend the cooked potatoes into the soup, and it will naturally thicken without needing flour.
Final Thoughts: A Soup Worth Repeating
This creamy roasted garlic potato soup delivers comfort and elegance in every bite. It’s easy to make, loaded with flavor, and flexible enough to fit many dietary needs. With its velvety texture and rich aroma, it’s a recipe you’ll return to all season long.
Looking for more comfort meals? Visit Creamy Gnocchi Soup with Bacon for another bowl of cozy indulgence.
PrintCreamy Roasted Garlic Potato Soup
A silky, flavorful, and comforting creamy roasted garlic potato soup made with roasted garlic, russet potatoes, sautéed aromatics, cream, and parmesan. A perfect vegetarian soup for cozy nights.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 head of garlic, whole
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1¾ pounds russet potatoes, peeled
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 cup white onions, chopped
- 1 leek, cleaned and thinly sliced (white and light green parts)
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 4–5 cups low sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup whole milk (or 2%)
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon fresh thyme (or ¼ tsp dry thyme)
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped chives or grilled cheese croutons for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375ºF. Slice off the top of the garlic head to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, wrap in foil, and roast for 40–45 minutes until soft and golden. Let cool and squeeze out the cloves.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add peeled potatoes and cook until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain, let cool, and cube.
- In a Dutch oven, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onions and leeks. Sauté for 6–8 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Reduce heat to medium. Stir in flour and cook for 60–90 seconds until lightly golden.
- Add 4 cups broth, milk, cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Add cubed potatoes, roasted garlic cloves, and parmesan cheese. Stir to combine.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth, or transfer to a blender in batches. Add up to 1 extra cup broth for thinner consistency, if needed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, topped with parmesan, chives, or croutons.
Notes
- Double the roasted garlic for a bolder flavor.
- Use vegetable broth and dairy substitutes for a vegan version.
- Grilled cheese croutons made with Gruyère pair beautifully.
- Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months in airtight containers.
- Use russet potatoes for best creaminess and natural thickening.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
