Imagine curling up on a chilly evening with a warm bowl of creamy, comforting soup. Now picture that soup infused with the rich, savory flavors of spinach and artichoke—just like your favorite dip, but heartier and more satisfying. This Creamy Spinach Artichoke Soup is the perfect blend of indulgence and nourishment, and the best part? It’s easy to make and packed with flavor!
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, meal prepping for the week, or just looking for a quick and delicious dish, this soup is guaranteed to hit the spot.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Spinach Artichoke Soup
- Rich and Creamy: The velvety texture from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese makes every spoonful irresistible.
- Nutritious and Delicious: Packed with spinach and artichokes, this soup offers a boost of vitamins and minerals.
- Quick and Easy: You can whip up this dish in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a starter, a side, or even a main course with some crusty bread.
Ingredients for Creamy Spinach Artichoke Soup
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Optional Garnishes
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
2. Add the Spinach and Artichokes
Stir in the chopped spinach and artichoke hearts. Cook for 3–5 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and the flavors to begin blending.
3. Simmer the Broth
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and stir well. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10–15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
4. Incorporate the Cream and Cheese
Lower the heat to medium-low and gently stir in the heavy cream and shredded Parmesan cheese. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the cheese has melted and the soup achieves a creamy, smooth texture.
5. Season to Perfection
Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you’d like a little heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes.
6. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs for a touch of elegance. Serve warm and enjoy!
Why This Recipe Stands Out
- Inspired by Spinach Artichoke Dip: This soup transforms a beloved appetizer into a satisfying meal.
- One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup and more time to relax.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its creamy, cheesy goodness is guaranteed to impress family and guests alike.
Tips for the Perfect Creamy Spinach Artichoke Soup
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and quality Parmesan cheese elevate the flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Spinach: To preserve its vibrant color and nutrients, cook just until wilted.
- Adjust the Consistency: For a thicker soup, simmer a bit longer. For a thinner broth, add a splash of extra broth or cream.
- Add Protein: For a heartier version, stir in cooked chicken or crispy bacon bits.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 250 |
Protein | 10g |
Carbohydrates | 12g |
Fat | 18g |
Fiber | 3g |
Sodium | 500mg |
Serving Suggestion
- Pair the soup with a crusty baguette or garlic bread for dipping.
- Serve alongside a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- Top with crumbled feta or a drizzle of truffle oil for an added touch of decadence.
FAQs About Creamy Spinach Artichoke Soup
1. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
2. How long does this soup last in the fridge?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
3. Can I freeze this soup?
This soup can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly due to the cream. Freeze in individual portions and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach. Thaw and drain it well before adding it to the soup.
5. What other cheeses work well in this soup?
While Parmesan is classic, you can also use Gruyere, Fontina, or Asiago for a different flavor profile.
6. How do I make the soup dairy-free?
Use coconut cream or a non-dairy cream alternative, and replace the Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese.
Conclusion
This Creamy Spinach Artichoke Soup is a perfect marriage of comfort and flavor. With its creamy base, savory cheese, and vibrant vegetables, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, enjoying leftovers for lunch, or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and savor the warmth of this easy, flavorful soup. Trust us—you’ll be coming back for seconds!
PrintSpinach Artichoke Tortellini Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Creamy Spinach Artichoke Soup is the ultimate comfort food! Inspired by the classic dip, it features tender spinach, flavorful artichokes, and a velvety cream base infused with garlic and Parmesan. Perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive starter, this soup is easy to make and guaranteed to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Instructions
- Prepare the Aromatics:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until fragrant. - Cook the Spinach and Artichokes:
Add the chopped spinach and artichoke hearts to the pot. Stir and cook for 3–5 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and blend with the other ingredients. - Simmer the Broth:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors meld together. - Incorporate Cream and Cheese:
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Slowly stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the cheese has fully melted and the soup reaches a creamy consistency. - Season and Serve:
Season the soup with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.
- Make It Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve the creamy texture.
- Freezing Tips: Freeze in individual portions. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
- Extra Protein: Add cooked shredded chicken or crispy bacon for a heartier meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American