Simple Brussels Sprout Soup is an effortless yet elegant comfort dish, brimming with wholesome greens, creamy potatoes, and aromatic herbs that blend into a velvety bowlful of goodness. If you’ve ever wondered what to do with a bag of Brussels sprouts, this recipe transforms them into a nourishing meal that’s ideal for chilly nights, healthy lunches, or whenever you crave a cozy, homemade soup. Silky, hearty, and loaded with flavor, it’s the perfect way to celebrate winter produce and introduce a new family favorite to your table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a handful of everyday ingredients come together to create something truly special in this Simple Brussels Sprout Soup. Each component adds its own flair, combining for a beautifully balanced soup that is hearty, flavorful, and vibrantly colored. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:
- Olive Oil: Brings a subtle fruity base and helps to sauté the vegetables for rich flavor.
- Onion: Adds savory sweetness, forming the aromatic backbone of the soup.
- Garlic: Infuses gentle depth, making the soup absolutely irresistible.
- Brussels Sprouts: The star of the show, these little cabbages lend earthiness and a lovely green hue.
- Potato: Lends creaminess and helps create the smooth texture that makes this soup so comforting.
- Vegetable Broth: Enhances the complexity, drawing out the flavor of each ingredient while keeping the soup light.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning, pulling all the flavors together.
- Dried Thyme: Offers subtle herbal notes that pair beautifully with Brussels sprouts.
- Heavy Cream or Coconut Milk (optional): Gives an optional touch of silky richness and makes the soup feel extra luxe.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): Brightens everything up for a gorgeous, fresh finish.
How to Make Simple Brussels Sprout Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and let it sweat gently, stirring occasionally, for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and fragrant. This is your soup’s aromatic foundation, so don’t rush it! Add the minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute more, releasing all that beautiful garlicky aroma and infusing the oil with flavor.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Pile in your halved Brussels sprouts and diced potato, stirring well so they’re coated with that fabulous onion and garlic mixture. This short sauté before adding any liquid helps the veggies pick up just a hint of sweetness and starts the flavor layering process that makes this Simple Brussels Sprout Soup truly shine.
Step 3: Simmer Everything Together
Pour in the vegetable broth, then sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Give everything a good stir, increase the heat, and bring it all to a lively boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for 15 to 20 minutes. Your Brussels sprouts and potatoes should be melt-in-your-mouth tender at the end of this step.
Step 4: Blend Until Smooth
Take the pot off the heat and let it cool slightly. Now, it’s time for kitchen magic—use an immersion blender right in the pot, or carefully work in batches with a countertop blender, and puree until the soup is smooth and creamy. This is when those humble veggies come together in a velvety embrace that tastes far more indulgent than you’d expect!
Step 5: Finish and Season
If you’re going for an extra creamy finish, stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk at this stage. Taste for seasoning and adjust the salt or pepper if needed. Your Simple Brussels Sprout Soup is now ready to be ladled into bowls and enjoyed while piping hot, perhaps with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a final bright touch.
How to Serve Simple Brussels Sprout Soup
Garnishes
A little garnish can transform your Simple Brussels Sprout Soup from comforting to company-worthy. Try a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness. Cracked black pepper, a swirl of cream or coconut milk, or even some toasted nut crumbs also add irresistible visual and flavor appeal.
Side Dishes
This soup is delightful all on its own, but for a heartier meal, pair it with thick slices of crusty sourdough or multigrain bread for dipping. A crisp green salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette or a plate of roasted seasonal vegetables makes a beautiful, well-rounded spread alongside your steaming bowl.
Creative Ways to Present
Simple Brussels Sprout Soup also loves a touch of whimsy: serve it in espresso cups as an appetizer at a dinner party, pour into small mason jars for picnic lunches, or top it with homemade croutons and a drizzle of herbed oil for an elevated bistro feel at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Simple Brussels Sprout Soup keeps brilliantly in the refrigerator for up to four days. Just let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. The flavors only get deeper and more delicious as they meld!
Freezing
This soup is freezer-friendly, too! Portion cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of headspace for expansion. It’ll store happily for up to three months—perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a nourishing meal in a hurry.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the texture has thickened while chilling, add a splash of broth or water to loosen things up—then taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
FAQs
Can I make Simple Brussels Sprout Soup vegan?
Absolutely! Just use coconut milk instead of heavy cream, or skip the cream entirely for a lighter version. The soup is naturally dairy-free and egg-free when using coconut milk, and it tastes luscious either way.
Do I have to blend the soup until completely smooth?
Nope! If you prefer a chunkier texture—where you get tender bites of Brussels sprouts and potatoes—blend only half or use a potato masher. The soup is delicious whether totally creamy or a little rustic.
What’s the best way to add extra greens?
Stir in a generous handful of spinach, kale, or even pea shoots during the last few minutes of simmering. They’ll wilt gently and blend right in, adding even more nutrients and a deeper green color to your Simple Brussels Sprout Soup.
Can I roast the Brussels sprouts first?
Absolutely! Roasting the Brussels sprouts before adding them to the pot gives the finished soup an extra layer of nutty, caramelized flavor. Simply toss sprouts with olive oil, roast at 425°F until golden, and proceed with the recipe as written.
Can I double this Simple Brussels Sprout Soup recipe?
Yes! This recipe easily doubles to feed a bigger crowd or to stock your freezer. Just use a larger pot and blend in batches if needed. It’s a great option for meal prepping or hosting a cozy gathering.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a soul-warming, veggie-packed meal that’s secretly simple and wonderfully satisfying, promise yourself you’ll try Simple Brussels Sprout Soup soon. It’s one of those easy, nourishing recipes you’ll want to make again and again—and share with everyone you love!
