This warm and hearty garlic soup is a classic Italian dish that packs a flavorful punch. Made with fresh garlic, broth, and a touch of cream, it’s perfect for cozy evenings!
Who knew garlic could taste this good? I love slurping it down with a hunk of crusty bread. Get ready; you might become a garlic fan like me! 🥖
What I appreciate most is how simple it is to whip up. Just blend, simmer, and you’ve got a delicious bowl of comfort. It’s my go-to on chilly days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Garlic: The star of the soup! Use fresh heads for the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but you’ll miss that rich, roasted taste.
Onion: A large onion adds depth. You can swap for shallots or leeks for a milder flavor. Just remember, they won’t deliver the same punch as a good onion!
Broth: I like to use chicken broth for a richer flavor, but vegetable broth is a great option for making the soup vegetarian. If you’re low on broth, water works too, but it might need a pinch more seasoning.
Potato: It helps create creaminess. Feel free to replace it with cauliflower for a lower-carb option or omit it if you’re in a hurry—you might just get a thinner soup.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or milk can work, but the texture will be less luxurious.
How Do I Achieve a Smooth and Creamy Soup?
Getting that perfect creamy texture is key to this dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Cook the ingredients well—letting the garlic and onion soften enhances the flavor.
- When blending, work in batches if using a standard blender. This avoids spills and gets it smooth without burning your hands!
- For the best results, consider using an immersion blender. It keeps the soup in the pot and is easier to clean up!
- Don’t rush the pureeing! Blend until silky to ensure a delightful texture.
Following this technique will ensure your soup is deliciously creamy and perfectly balanced. Enjoy your warming bowl of garlic goodness!
Authentic Italian Style Garlic Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 heads of garlic (about 20 cloves), peeled and smashed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 large potato, peeled and diced (for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Croutons (preferably garlic toasted bread cubes), for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 30 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need about 45 minutes to have a delicious, warming garlic soup ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the smashed garlic cloves and the chopped onion. Gently sauté for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is soft and aromatic but not browned—this helps bring out the garlic’s beautiful flavor!
2. Cook the Potatoes:
Add the diced potato to the garlic-onion mixture, then pour in the broth. Bring everything to a boil, and once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, which takes about 20 minutes. This step is crucial for that creamy texture!
3. Blend the Soup:
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup right in the pot until it’s smooth and creamy. If you’re using a standard blender, carefully blend the soup in batches, returning it to the pot once done. This step transforms it into a deliciously velvety soup!
4. Add Cream and Season:
Stir in the heavy cream for richness and season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Keep the soup warm on low heat while you prepare the croutons.
5. Make the Croutons:
In a small skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the bread cubes and toast them until they are golden and crisp. For added flavor, feel free to toss them with a bit of minced garlic before toasting!
6. Serve the Soup:
Now it’s time to serve! Ladle the beautiful garlic soup into bowls. Drizzle a little olive oil on top, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, and finish with a handful of crunchy croutons. Enjoy your comforting, authentic Italian garlic soup!
This silky, garlicky soup is not just simple, but it also offers a rich flavor that makes it perfect as a warm starter or a light meal paired with some crusty bread. Enjoy every spoonful!
Can I Use Garlic Powder Instead of Fresh Garlic?
While fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor, you can use garlic powder in a pinch. About 1 teaspoon of garlic powder per head of fresh garlic will suffice. Just remember that it won’t have the same robust flavor as fresh!
How Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
To make this soup vegan, simply replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Use vegetable broth if you aren’t already. The result will still be creamy and delicious!
Can I Prepare This Soup in Advance?
Absolutely! You can make the soup up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep it smooth.
What Should I Do with Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. To thaw, simply place it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave!
