Cream Of Garlic Soup Recipe (Easy And Tasty)

Garlic transforms kitchens. Loved by chefs worldwide, this humble bulb uplifts dishes with its distinct aroma. But have you ever experienced its magic in a creamy soup? Dive into this cream of garlic soup recipe.

Every spoonful bursts with rich, velvety flavor. It’s not just another soup; it’s an experience. Made with fresh ingredients, this concoction highlights garlic’s essence without overpowering.

Whether you’re a culinary novice or a seasoned chef, this recipe promises a delightful surprise. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a sophisticated starter, it’s a timeless classic reimagined.

So, ready your pots and ladles. Unearth the magic of garlic. Discover a soup that speaks to the soul. Let’s embark on this flavorful journey together.

What Is Cream Of Garlic Soup Recipe? 

Cream of Garlic Soup is a velvety blend of roasted garlic, onions, and herbs simmered in broth and then pureed. Enhanced with a dash of cream for richness, this soup boasts a smooth texture and deep, savory flavor.

Often garnished with croutons or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, it’s a delightful way to highlight garlic’s unique taste. Ideal for cold days or as a gourmet starter, this dish is a tribute to garlic lovers everywhere.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

Keto

• Replace milk with more heavy cream or use unsweetened almond milk.
• Use a keto-friendly thickener like xanthan gum instead of potatoes.
• Ensure your chicken broth is free from added sugars or additives.

Paleo

• Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of regular milk and heavy cream.
• Ensure your white wine is paleo-friendly or omit it, using more broth instead.
• Use ghee or coconut oil in place of olive oil if preferred.

Gluten-Free

• The base recipe is naturally gluten-free. However, always check the labels for chicken broth and wine to ensure no gluten-containing additives are present.

Whole30

• Omit white wine or ensure it’s Whole30 compliant.
• Use ghee instead of olive oil.
• Replace milk and heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk.

Vegetarian

• Simply replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.

Vegan

• Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
• Use unsweetened almond milk, soy milk, or cashew milk instead of dairy milk.
• Replace the heavy whipping cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream.
• Ensure the white wine used is vegan. (Some wines use animal-derived fining agents.)

Recipe Directions 

• In a food processor, chop garlic to a coarse paste, pausing to scrape the sides.
• Over low heat, warm oil in a large saucepan. Add garlic paste, stirring until it colors slightly.
• Pour in chicken broth and wine, bringing the mix to a boil.
• Reduce heat; simmer for 30 minutes.
• Incorporate milk, cream, and potato. Continue simmering for another 30 minutes.
• Blend the soup until smooth.
• Return soup to the saucepan; simmer briefly. Season with salt and pepper.
• Serve in bowls with buttered French bread on the side.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

• Roasted Garlic Version: Instead of using fresh garlic, roast the garlic bulbs in the oven until they’re caramelized and soft. This lends a mellow, sweet depth to the soup.
• Vegetable Medley: Add carrots, celery, or leeks to the base for added nutrients and flavor layers.
• Spiced Twist: Incorporate spices such as cumin, paprika, or a hint of saffron for a unique flavor touch.

Add-Ons

• Proteins: Consider adding diced chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a heartier soup.
• Grains: Barley, quinoa, or rice can make the soup more substantial and give it a pleasant, chewy texture.
• Beans: White beans or chickpeas not only increase the protein content but also mesh well with the creamy garlic flavor.
• Greens: Spinach, kale, or chard can be added in the last few minutes of cooking for a nutritional boost and color contrast.

Toppings

• Croutons: Garlic or herb croutons offer a delightful crunchy contrast.
• Cheese: Grated Parmesan, crumbled feta, or a dollop of ricotta can enhance the soup’s creaminess and flavor.
• Herbs: Freshly chopped parsley, chives, or dill provide a vibrant garnish and flavor pop.
• Nuts: Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds add crunch and an earthy flavor.
• Zest: A sprinkle of lemon or orange zest can give the soup a fresh and fragrant lift.
• Oils: A drizzle of chili oil, truffle oil, or extra virgin olive oil can elevate the soup’s richness.
• Spice: Red chili flakes or a swirl of pesto can introduce a new dimension of taste.

Can I Make Cream of Garlic Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Slow Cooker

• Preparation: Chop the garlic in a food processor as previously described.
• Sauté: In a skillet, heat the olive oil and sauté the garlic paste until it begins to color. This step adds a richer flavor.
• Transfer: Move the garlic paste to the slow cooker and add chicken broth, white wine, milk, cream, and potatoes.
• Cook: Set the slow cooker on low and let it cook for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
• Blend: Once done, puree the soup using a blender or an immersion blender.
• Season: Return the soup to the slow cooker, warm it up, season with salt and pepper, and serve.

Instant Pot

• Preparation: Start by preparing the garlic as directed.
• Sauté: Use the “Sauté” function on the Instant Pot to heat the olive oil. Add the garlic paste and sauté until it starts to color.
• Add Ingredients: Turn off the “Sauté” mode. Add chicken broth, white wine, milk, cream, and potatoes to the pot.
• Pressure Cook: Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” on high pressure for 15 minutes.
• Natural Release: Once done, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for about 10 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
• Blend: Carefully blend the soup until smooth.
• Season: Turn on the “Sauté” mode to heat the soup again if needed. Add salt and pepper to taste and serve.

Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

You can absolutely use store-bought broth for your cream of garlic soup recipe if you prefer convenience or don’t have homemade broth on hand. However, making your own broth can add a homemade touch and potentially more nuanced flavor to your soup. It ultimately depends on your preference and the time you have available. If you’re short on time, store-bought broth is a convenient option. If you have the time and inclination, making your own broth can be rewarding and can allow you to tailor the flavors to your liking.

How To Serve?

• Serve Warm: Garlic soup should be served hot, but not scalding. Reheat if necessary just before serving.
• Use Warm Bowls: Pre-warming the soup bowls can keep the soup hot for longer. Simply rinse them with hot water or place them in an oven set to a very low temperature for a few minutes.
• Garnish: A simple garnish can transform the look and flavor of the soup. Consider adding a swirl of cream, a sprinkle of fresh herbs (like parsley or chives), a drizzle of olive oil, or some roasted garlic cloves on top.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of buttered French bread or rustic sourdough on the side. The crunchy texture complements the creamy soup wonderfully.
• Add Texture: Consider adding toasted croutons, roasted nuts (like pine nuts), or even some grated cheese on top for added texture.
• Pair with Salad: A light, fresh salad pairs wonderfully with the rich garlic soup. Consider greens with a tangy vinaigrette to counterbalance the soup’s creaminess.
• Serve in Suitable Dishware: Use deep bowls to contain the soup well. If serving at a formal occasion, consider using soup plates or even soup tureens.
• Wine Pairing: If you’re into wine, consider serving the soup with a glass of crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which can complement the rich, garlicky flavors.
• Serving Size: Ensure the serving size is appropriate. For a starter, a smaller portion is ideal, while for a main, a more generous portion is fitting.
• Condiments on the Side: If guests might want to adjust the seasoning, consider having small condiment dishes with salt, pepper, and perhaps some chili flakes for those who like a little heat.

Perfect Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A classic choice. Freshly baked French baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough are ideal for dipping and soaking up the soup. You can also serve garlic bread to enhance the garlic flavor.
• Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the soup. Consider ingredients like mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese.
• Bruschetta: Tomato bruschetta, with its fresh flavors of tomato, basil, and olive oil on toasted bread, offers a delightful contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or green beans, roasted with some olive oil, salt, and pepper, provide a different texture and flavor profile.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Slice it into smaller portions and serve as a delightful, cheesy side to dip into the soup.
• Olives and Pickles: These offer a tangy contrast to the creamy soup. A small platter of assorted olives, pickles, and perhaps some marinated artichoke hearts can be refreshing.
• Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses, particularly aged ones with a sharper flavor, can complement the creamy, mild nature of the garlic soup.
• Flatbreads: Seasoned with herbs and perhaps some light cheese, flatbreads can be a different and enjoyable accompaniment.
• Quiche: A slice of a light quiche, perhaps with vegetables or a mild cheese, can pair wonderfully.
• Stuffed Mushrooms: Filled with breadcrumbs, herbs, and perhaps a touch of cheese, they provide a contrasting bite to the soup.
• Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry: The crispness of the pastry and the flavor of the filling can be a great side.

Storage And Make Ahead

• Storage: After cooking, let the soup cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
• Make Ahead: This soup is perfect for making ahead. Prepare the recipe as instructed, then let it cool completely. Once cooled, transfer the soup to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the soup gently on the stove, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

• Pasta Sauce: Reduce the soup until thickened and mix with cooked pasta for a creamy garlic-flavored dish.
• Casserole Base: Use the soup as a rich, flavorful base for casseroles.
• Bread Dip: Warm it slightly to serve as a dipping sauce for crusty bread.
• Risotto Liquid: Use in place of broth when making risotto.
• Garlic Cream Chicken: Pour over chicken and bake for a creamy garlic-infused dish.
• Pot Pie Filling: Add some veggies and protein, top with pie crust, and bake.
• Dressing Base: Cool and whisk with some vinegar and oil for a creamy salad dressing.
• Freeze for Later: Pour into ice cube trays, freeze, and store in bags for quick flavor boosts.
• Creamy Garlic Rice: Cook rice using the soup for added richness.
• Stuffed Vegetable Filling: Mix with grains or breadcrumbs and stuff vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

Nutrition Table