There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, velvety bowl of Cream of Spinach Soup. This elegant yet simple dish combines the earthy richness of spinach with the creamy indulgence of a well-balanced broth, making it perfect for cozy nights, elegant dinners, or a nourishing lunch.
Whether you’re looking for a way to sneak more greens into your diet or simply craving a restaurant-quality soup at home, this recipe delivers. With its silky texture, vibrant color, and rich flavor, it’s a dish that feels indulgent while still being packed with vitamins and minerals.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make the perfect Cream of Spinach Soup, including chef-approved tips, dairy-free alternatives, and gourmet garnishing ideas to elevate your bowl.
Why You’ll Love This Cream of Spinach Soup
✅ Silky Smooth Texture – Blended to perfection for a luxurious mouthfeel.
✅ Packed with Nutrients – Spinach is loaded with iron, vitamins A & C, and fiber.
✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
✅ Versatile – Works as a starter, light meal, or elegant dinner party soup.
✅ Customizable – Make it dairy-free, extra creamy, or add protein.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Base Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) fresh spinach – Washed and stems removed (or frozen spinach in a pinch)
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- ½ tsp nutmeg (freshly grated for best flavor)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins & Garnishes
- Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated for topping
- Crème fraîche or Greek yogurt – For a tangy swirl
- Crispy bacon or pancetta – For a smoky crunch
- Toasted pine nuts or croutons – For texture
- Lemon zest – Brightens the flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot, melt butter (or heat olive oil) over medium heat.
- Add onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Wilt the Spinach
- Add the spinach in batches, stirring until wilted (about 3-4 minutes).
- If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out excess water first.
3. Simmer the Soup
- Pour in broth and bring to a gentle simmer for 10 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
4. Blend Until Smooth
- Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a countertop blender in batches) to purée the soup until silky.
- For extra creaminess, strain through a fine-mesh sieve (optional).
5. Add Cream & Adjust Seasoning
- Stir in heavy cream and heat gently (do not boil).
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve & Garnish
- Ladle into bowls and top with Parmesan, crème fraîche, or crispy bacon.
- Serve with crusty bread or a side salad.
Pro Tips for the Best Cream of Spinach Soup
🔹 Use fresh spinach for the best flavor, but frozen works in a pinch (just drain well).
🔹 Don’t overcook the spinach – It should be just wilted to retain nutrients.
🔹 For a lighter version, substitute cream with coconut milk or evaporated milk.
🔹 Blend while hot for the smoothest texture (but be careful with steam).
🔹 Add a potato while simmering for extra thickness without heavy cream.
Delicious Variations
🧀 Cheesy Spinach Soup – Stir in cheddar or Gruyère for extra richness.
🌱 Vegan/Dairy-Free – Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast.
🍋 Lemony Spinach Soup – Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
🍤 Seafood Twist – Top with seared scallops or shrimp for a gourmet touch.
Serving Suggestions
- As a starter – Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
- Light lunch – Serve with a grilled cheese sandwich or avocado toast.
- Elegant dinner – Garnish with truffle oil and serve in small espresso cups as an amuse-bouche.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Fridge – Keeps for 3 days (store without cream if possible; add when reheating).
- Freezer – Freeze base soup (without cream) for up to 1 month. Thaw and add cream when reheating.
- Reheat gently – Avoid boiling to prevent separation.
Final Thoughts
This Cream of Spinach Soup is the ultimate way to enjoy a nutrient-dense dish that feels indulgent. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or an elegant starter, this recipe delivers comfort, flavor, and elegance in every spoonful.