Cream of Celery Soup

Cream of celery soup doesn’t get much attention, but it should. This velvety bowl is a celebration of simplicity, letting celery’s subtle, peppery flavor shine through. A handful of pantry ingredients come together to create a soup that feels both comforting and elegant. A touch of cream gives it just the right amount of richness, while a dash of sherry, if you choose, adds an extra layer of depth. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or a light meal, this is a recipe you’ll make on repeat.

Cream of Celery Soup Ingredients

Jonathan Melendez for Taste of Home

• Butter: The butter adds richness and helps soften the celery and onions during cooking.
• Celery: It provides the primary flavor base for the soup, contributing a mild, slightly peppery taste.
• Onion: The onion adds sweetness and depth of flavor, complementing the celery.
• Garlic: Garlic enhances the overall flavor with its subtle aromatic warmth.
• Salt: This seasoning enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables and other ingredients.
• Celery seed: Celery seed brings a concentrated celery flavor, intensifying the taste of the soup.
• Pepper: It adds a mild heat that balances the richness of the soup.
• All-purpose flour: The flour acts as a thickening agent, giving the soup its creamy texture.
• Chicken broth: Chicken broth serves as the liquid base, adding savory depth and richness.
• Heavy whipping cream: It adds creaminess and gives the soup a silky texture.
• Sherry (optional): A splash of sherry lends a touch of acidity and enhances the complexity of the soup.

Directions

Step 1: Make the soup

Jonathan Melendez for Taste of Home

Melt the butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the chopped celery and onion, cooking and stirring occasionally until the celery softens and the onions are slightly caramelized on the edges, about eight to 10 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, salt, crushed celery seed and pepper, and cook for one minute longer until the garlic becomes fragrant.

Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring constantly to coat them evenly, and cook for one to two minutes until the flour is lightly browned. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth to prevent lumps from forming, then bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking frequently until the soup thickens, about five minutes. Stir in the heavy whipping cream and, if desired, the sherry, and let the soup simmer for an additional five minutes until it thickens.

Jonathan Melendez for Taste of Home

Cream of Celery Soup Variations

• Add potatoes: Dice one to two medium potatoes and cook them along with the celery and onion for a more filling, thicker soup.
• Use leeks: Substitute leeks for the onion to give the soup a more delicate and subtle onion flavor.
• Use vegetable broth: Make this soup vegetarian by using vegetable broth in place of the chicken broth, without sacrificing flavor.
• Add fresh herbs: Stir in chopped fresh parsley, dill or thyme at the end of cooking to add a burst of freshness.
• Boost with protein: Add shredded cooked chicken or white beans to the soup for extra protein and texture.
• Add a smoky twist: Stir in a dash of smoked paprika or a small amount of liquid smoke to add a subtle smoky flavor.

How to Store Cream of Celery Soup

To store this cream of celery soup, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store the container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply give it a good stir to mix the ingredients that may have settled.

Can you freeze cream of celery soup?

Yes, you can freeze cream of celery soup, but keep in mind that the texture may change slightly due to the cream. To avoid separation, it’s best to freeze the soup before adding the cream, then stir it in when reheating. If freezing the soup with cream, simply whisk well when reheating to restore its smooth consistency.

How long does cream of celery soup last?

Cream of celery soup will last up to four days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Be sure to cool the soup completely before refrigerating to maintain its freshness.

Can you make cream of celery soup ahead of time?

Yes, cream of celery soup is a great make-ahead option. You can prepare it up to a couple of days in advance and store it in the refrigerator, then reheat when you’re ready to serve.

How do you reheat cream of celery soup?

To reheat cream of celery soup, warm it over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching and help maintain its creamy texture. Avoid boiling, as this can cause the cream to separate. If the soup is too thick after reheating, add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Cream of Celery Soup Tips

Jonathan Melendez for Taste of Home

Can I use celery leaves in cream of celery soup?

Yes, celery leaves are a delicious addition to cream of celery soup. Chop them finely and stir them in at the end of cooking to add extra flavor and a pop of freshness, or use them as a garnish for added color and texture.

How can I thicken cream of celery soup without flour?

If you prefer a gluten-free version or simply want to avoid flour, thicken the cream of celery soup by blending in cooked potatoes or cauliflower. Both give the soup a creamy texture without the need for flour.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream in cream of celery soup?

Yes, you can substitute milk for heavy cream if you want a lighter soup. Whole milk works best for a creamy texture, though the soup won’t be as rich as if made with cream. Try using half-and-half for a compromise between richness and lightness.

What can I serve with cream of celery soup?

Cream of celery soup pairs well with crusty bread, such as a baguette or sourdough, which helps soak up the creamy broth. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a simple salad or a sandwich like grilled cheese or turkey on whole grain bread.