Creamy Carrot Chowder

If you’re in the mood for something warm, comforting, and packed with flavor, then look no further than Creamy Carrot Chowder. This velvety soup is like a cozy hug in a bowl, made with tender carrots, savory vegetables, and a rich, creamy base that will have you slurping with joy. It’s light enough for a quick lunch but hearty enough to be the star of a cozy dinner. The best part? It’s packed with vibrant flavors that will make you forget that you’re eating your veggies. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!

Why You’ll Love Creamy Carrot Chowder

• Comforting & Hearty: The combination of carrots, potatoes, and cream creates a soup that’s satisfying and comforting without being overly heavy.
• Naturally Sweet: The carrots bring a beautiful sweetness to the chowder that balances perfectly with the savory broth.
• Rich & Creamy: The creamy base makes every spoonful feel indulgent and velvety. It’s the kind of soup that’ll make you feel like you’re treating yourself.
• Simple Ingredients: You don’t need any fancy ingredients to make this. Just a handful of pantry staples, and you’re good to go.
• Perfect for All Seasons: Whether it’s chilly outside and you need something to warm you up, or you’re craving a light yet comforting dinner, this soup is perfect for any time of year.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Creamy Carrot Chowder:

• 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped: These are the stars of the show. They provide natural sweetness and rich flavor.
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced: These will help thicken the soup and make it feel more filling.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: For a savory, aromatic base.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pop of flavor to the soup.
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth: The savory liquid that brings everything together.
• 1 cup heavy cream: For that luscious, creamy texture that makes this chowder feel indulgent.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables.
• 1 tsp dried thyme: A subtle herbal flavor that complements the carrots and potatoes beautifully.
• Salt and pepper to taste: To season and bring out the flavors.
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a pop of color and freshness to finish off the soup.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in the diced potatoes and carrots, and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Add the Broth and Simmer

Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and stir in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

Once the vegetables are tender, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches, blend it, and then return it to the pot. If you prefer a chunkier chowder, blend just half of the soup.

Step 4: Add the Cream

Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the soup to thicken and become extra creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy goodness!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 250
Total Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
Sodium: 650mg
Total Carbohydrate: 26g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 10g
Protein: 4g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve Creamy Carrot Chowder

• Crusty Bread: Pair this chowder with a slice of warm, crusty bread to dip into the soup.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Serve it alongside a classic grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal.
• Salads: A light, fresh salad with greens and a citrus vinaigrette makes a great side for this creamy soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or cauliflower would complement the rich, creamy chowder perfectly.

Additional Tips

• Make it Vegan: Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative for a vegan version of this chowder.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like celery or leeks to enhance the flavor of the soup.
• Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onion and garlic.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat.
• Freeze for Later: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container for freezing.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this soup without an immersion blender?
A1: Yes! If you don’t have an immersion blender, just transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.

Q2: How can I make this soup lighter?
A2: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of the chowder.

Q3: Can I add meat to this soup?
A3: Absolutely! You can add shredded chicken or crispy bacon for extra flavor and protein.

Q4: Can I use frozen carrots?
A4: While fresh carrots are best for this recipe, you can use frozen carrots if you’re in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the pot.

Q5: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A5: Yes! This soup stores well in the fridge for a few days and also freezes beautifully. Just make sure to reheat gently.

Q6: Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
A6: Yes! Vegetable broth works just as well and keeps this soup vegetarian-friendly.

Q7: How can I add more flavor to the chowder?
A7: Try adding a bit of freshly grated ginger or a dash of smoked paprika to bring a new twist to the flavor profile.

Q8: Can I make this soup spicy?
A8: Yes! You can add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.

Q9: How do I store leftover soup?
A9: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat.

Q10: Can I freeze this soup?
A10: Yes! This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before storing in a freezer-safe container.

Conclusion

This Creamy Carrot Chowder is the perfect balance of creamy, comforting, and flavorful. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, making it the ideal choice for a cozy meal. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it up as a light lunch, this soup is sure to please. Plus, with its simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again! So grab your carrots and get cooking—you’re in for a creamy, delicious treat!

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