Quick & Easy Potato Leek Soup #5FIX

There’s a particular kind of comfort that a warm bowl of soup can bring, especially on a blustery day. For me, potato leek soup has always held a special place in my heart. I remember countless chilly evenings as a child, my grandmother would hum a soft tune as she stirred a pot of this very soup on the stove. The aroma of softened leeks and simmering broth would fill our small kitchen, a promise of warmth and deliciousness. This particular recipe, the #5FIX, has become my go-to because it captures that same soulful essence with an incredible speed and ease, all thanks to a smart shortcut that my grandmother would have absolutely adored. It’s proof that truly satisfying food doesn’t always require hours of slaving over a hot stove.

Recipe Overview

Here are the essential details for this comforting soup:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6-8
• Yield: 10 cups
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian (Can be made Vegan with dairy-free butter and omitting heavy cream)

Ingredients

This is where the magic of the #5FIX truly shines – a remarkably short ingredient list for such a flavorful soup.

• 1 (24 ounce) container Simply Potatoes Traditional Mashed Potatoes
• 5 leeks, trimmed, white bulb only, washed and chopped
• 2 (32 ounce) boxes vegetable broth
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Chives, for garnish (optional)

Equipment Needed

You’ll find that this recipe requires very little in the way of specialized equipment, making it accessible for any home cook.

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Immersion blender (or a regular blender)

Instructions

Crafting this delightful soup is a straightforward process, designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort.

1. Begin by preparing your leeks. Ensure they are thoroughly washed to remove any grit, as leeks can trap dirt between their layers. Trim off the tough green tops and the root ends, leaving only the white and pale green parts. Chop these parts finely.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped leeks to the pot.
3. Sauté the leeks for approximately 10 minutes, stirring frequently. The goal here is to soften the leeks until they are tender and translucent, not browned. This slow cooking process coaxes out their sweet, mild oniony flavor.
4. Pour in the 2 (32 ounce) boxes of vegetable broth into the pot with the softened leeks. Stir to combine.
5. Now, it’s time to add the star shortcut: the 1 (24 ounce) container of Simply Potatoes Traditional Mashed Potatoes. Add this directly into the pot.
6. Increase the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a simmering, slow boil, stirring frequently. Continue to cook, stirring often, until the mashed potatoes have completely dissolved into the broth, creating a thickened, creamy base. This usually takes a few minutes.
7. Once the potatoes are fully incorporated, carefully use an immersion blender to cream the soup. Blend until the soup is smooth and lusciously creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, being sure to vent the lid to allow steam to escape, and blend until smooth. Return the blended soup to the pot.
8. Stir in the 1/4 cup of heavy cream. Mix well to ensure it is fully incorporated and the soup is velvety.
9. Heat gently for another minute or two, ensuring the cream is well distributed. Do not boil after adding the cream, as this can cause it to separate.
10. Ladle the Quick & Easy Potato Leek Soup #5FIX into bowls. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped chives.

Expert Tips & Tricks

To elevate this already fantastic soup, consider these professional insights:

• Leek Prep is Key: Don’t underestimate the importance of thoroughly washing your leeks. If you have time, a good tip is to slice them lengthwise first, then fan out the layers under running water to rinse away any hidden grit.
• Butter’s Role: While you can substitute olive oil for a dairy-free or vegan version, the butter in this recipe contributes a richness and depth that is truly special. If you’re going dairy-free, opt for a good quality vegan butter substitute.
• Creamy Dreams: For an extra velvety texture, after adding the heavy cream, you can give the soup a final quick pulse with the immersion blender. This helps to emulsify everything beautifully.
• Broth Selection: Using a high-quality vegetable broth makes a noticeable difference. If you’re a vegetarian aiming for maximum flavor, a mushroom-based broth can add an even deeper, earthier note.
• Chive Alternatives: If chives aren’t your preference or you don’t have them on hand, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or even a very light drizzle of truffle oil can provide a lovely finishing touch.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This soup is a star on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a crusty baguette for dipping, a light green salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich. For an elegant presentation, swirl a tablespoon of extra cream or a dollop of sour cream on top before garnishing with chives.

Leftovers of this Quick & Easy Potato Leek Soup #5FIX can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, it’s best to do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, to maintain its creamy consistency. Avoid high heat or prolonged boiling, which can alter the texture. If the soup has thickened too much during storage, you can thin it out with a splash of additional vegetable broth or water. Freezing is also an option, though the texture might be slightly altered upon thawing; if you do freeze it, allow it to thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional content for this delicious soup. Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and any substitutions made.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	130.4 kcal
Calories from Fat		86 g
Total Fat	9.7 g	14 %
Saturated Fat	6 g	29 %
Cholesterol	28.9 mg	9 %
Sodium	69.3 mg	2 %
Total Carbohydrate	10.8 g	3 %
Dietary Fiber	1.3 g	5 %
Sugars	2.9 g	11 %
Protein	1.4 g	2 %

Variations & Substitutions

While this recipe is perfect as is, feel free to explore these delicious variations:

• Vegan Delight: To make this soup entirely vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative and omit the heavy cream. For a creamy finish without dairy, you can add a splash of unsweetened plant-based milk (like cashew or oat milk) or a dollop of vegan sour cream at the end.
• A Touch of Garlic: For those who love a subtle garlicky undertone, sauté a clove or two of minced garlic along with the leeks for the last few minutes of softening.
• Root Vegetable Boost: If you want to add more substance and nutrients, consider adding a peeled and diced potato or a chopped carrot along with the leeks. Ensure they are cooked until very tender before blending.
• Herbal Infusion: A sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary can be added to the pot during the simmering stage for an aromatic twist. Remove the herb before blending.

FAQs

Q: Why is it called the #5FIX recipe?
A: This recipe earned its name from a contest where it was recognized as a fantastic “5-Ingredient Fix,” highlighting its simplicity and speed.

Q: Can I use regular potatoes instead of Simply Potatoes?
A: Yes, you can, but it will significantly increase the prep time as you’ll need to peel, chop, and cook the potatoes until very tender before blending them into the soup. The Simply Potatoes are the key to the “quick and easy” aspect.

Q: How do I ensure my leeks are clean?
A: Leeks can hold a lot of dirt between their layers. It’s best to slice them lengthwise, fan out the layers, and rinse them thoroughly under running water.

Q: Is this soup suitable for picky eaters?
A: Absolutely! The flavor of the leeks is mellowed beautifully by the potatoes and broth, resulting in a mild, comforting taste that is generally very well-received.

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, this soup is an excellent candidate for make-ahead. It stores and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

This Quick & Easy Potato Leek Soup #5FIX is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients and a clever approach can yield profoundly satisfying results. It’s a dish that invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and enjoy the comforting embrace of a truly delicious soup, no matter how busy your day might be. I encourage you to give it a try, share it with loved ones, and perhaps even start your own cherished traditions around this humble yet remarkable soup. It’s a true weeknight wonder that never fails to deliver comfort and cheer.