Creamy Spinach & Potato Soup

Creamy Spinach & Potato Soup
Creamy Spinach & Potato Soup
Originally published as Creamy Spinach & Potato Soup in Healthy Cooking April/May 2012, p61. My three boys love this recipe and I even send it in their school lunches! I sometimes add ham for a meat option or sprinkle with chopped bacon pieces. Amy Samuel, North Pole, Alaska
  • Preparing Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Served Person: 9
contains white meat tree nut free nut free contains gluten red meat free shellfish free contains dairy
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons canola oil
  • 6 cups cubed peeled potatoes
  • 2 medium leeks, white portion only chopped
  • 1 teaspoon sodium-free chicken bouillon granules
  • 3 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
  • 12 oz reduced-fat evaporated milk
  • 9 oz fresh spinach chopped
  • Carbohydrate 10.396753439198 g
  • Cholesterol 18.6618155986667 mg
  • Fat 8.57796896110597 g
  • Fiber 0.819602897775509 g
  • Protein 6.98921508358777 g
  • Saturated Fat 3.54011458741229 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 Serving (164g)
  • Sodium 381.011863160374 mg
  • Sugar 9.57715054142252 g
  • Trans Fat 0.376026360735792 g
  • Calories 144 calories
Creamy Spinach & Potato Soup: A Family Favorite

My Go-To Comfort Food: Creamy Spinach & Potato Soup

As a busy mom of three boys, I'm always on the lookout for quick, easy, and nutritious meals that the whole family will enjoy. This Creamy Spinach & Potato Soup fits the bill perfectly. It's incredibly versatile, too! Sometimes, I’ll add a little ham for extra protein, or a sprinkle of bacon bits for a smoky flavor. The boys love it so much, I even pack it in their school lunches. The creamy texture and the satisfying blend of spinach and potato are just the right kind of comfort food, especially on a chilly evening.

The recipe itself is remarkably simple. It comes together quickly, using ingredients I generally have on hand. The secret? Properly cooked potatoes and the right balance of flavors. The leeks add a subtle sweetness that complements the earthy potatoes and spinach perfectly. A simple chicken broth and a touch of milk provide creaminess without being heavy, allowing the fresh flavors of the spinach and potatoes to truly shine through. The best part? Everyone – even the pickiest eaters – gobbles it up. I have never once had leftovers, which makes it a fantastically efficient use of my time and ingredients.

The beauty of this soup lies in its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different additions. I’ve tried adding a splash of cream for extra richness, or even a pinch of nutmeg for a warmer flavor profile. You can adjust the amount of spinach to your liking – more spinach means a more intensely green and vibrant soup! It’s so forgiving; honestly, you can't really go wrong. This is the kind of recipe that you can truly make your own and adapt to your tastes and what you have available.

Beyond the ease and deliciousness, what I really appreciate about this soup is that it’s genuinely healthy. Packed with nutrients from the potatoes and spinach, it offers a balanced and satisfying meal that keeps my boys energized throughout their busy school day. It’s a testament to the fact that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated or boring. In fact, sometimes the simplest recipes are the most satisfying and nutritious. For me, this soup embodies everything I look for in a family recipe: quick, easy, tasty, healthy, and above all, loved by everyone.

So next time you're looking for a comforting yet healthy meal, give this Creamy Spinach & Potato Soup a try. It has quickly become a staple in our household and I have a feeling it'll become one of your favorites, too. Trust me, it’s worth every single bite!

Tips and Variations:

  • For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
  • Add other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or mushrooms.
  • Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs like chives or parsley.
  • Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
  • For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken or sausage.

Step-by-step

    • Place potatoes in a large saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil.
    • Reduce heat; cover and cook for 10-12 minutes or until tender. Drain.
    • Mash 2 cups potatoes; set aside.
    • In a Dutch oven, saute leeks in oil until tender.
    • Whisk the flour, bouillon granules and broth until smooth. Gradually stir into pan.
    • Add milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened.
    • Stir in mashed potatoes.
    • Add spinach, salt, pepper and remaining potatoes; cook just until spinach is wilted.
    • Sprinkle with cheese.