Cajun Potato Soup is a rich, comforting, and slightly spicy soup that I love to make when I want a cozy, one-pot meal with bold Southern flavor. With creamy potatoes, aromatic veggies, Cajun spices, and a smoky kick from paprika.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this soup turns humble ingredients into something crave-worthy and filling. Even without meat, it’s hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. The Cajun seasoning brings just the right level of spice, and the creamy base makes each bite smooth and comforting. It’s perfect for a chilly night or anytime I want something bold and nourishing.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
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Onion, chopped
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Celery, chopped
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Bell pepper, diced (optional, for extra flavor)
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Garlic, minced
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Olive oil or butter
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All-purpose flour
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Vegetable broth
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Heavy cream or half-and-half (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
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Cajun seasoning
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Smoked paprika
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Salt and black pepper
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Fresh lemon juice (just a splash to brighten)
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Optional toppings: shredded cheese, green onions, hot sauce, plant-based sausage
Directions
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I heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. I sauté the onion, celery, and bell pepper (if using) until softened, about 5–6 minutes.
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I stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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I add the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a light roux.
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I slowly pour in the vegetable broth, whisking to avoid lumps.
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I add the diced potatoes, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. I bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
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I stir in the cream (or dairy-free alternative) and lightly mash some of the potatoes with a potato masher to thicken the soup while leaving chunks for texture.
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I finish with a splash of lemon juice, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
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I ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheese, green onions, or a drizzle of hot sauce if I want extra kick.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 6 servings and takes around 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cook time, for a total of 40 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes add corn or canned white beans for more texture and body. If I’m looking for extra protein, I stir in sliced plant-based sausage. For a smoky depth, I up the smoked paprika or even add a drop of liquid smoke. When I want it extra thick, I blend a cup of the soup and stir it back in.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container. To reheat, I warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much. It reheats well in the microwave, too. I avoid freezing it if I’ve used dairy, but it freezes well if I use coconut milk instead.
FAQs
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes. I replace the cream with full-fat coconut milk or any unsweetened plant-based milk plus a little cornstarch to thicken.
Is it spicy?
The spice level depends on the Cajun seasoning. I start with a little and add more to taste. For extra heat, I add cayenne or hot sauce.
Can I blend the soup for a smooth texture?
Yes, I blend some or all of the soup if I want a creamier result. I prefer keeping some chunks of potato for texture.
What kind of potatoes should I use?
I like Yukon gold for a creamy texture or russet potatoes for a heartier bite. Both work well.
What should I serve with it?
I usually serve it with crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the soup.
Conclusion
This Cajun Potato Soup is rich, spicy, and satisfying—even without any meat. It’s the perfect comfort food with a kick, and I love how easy it is to make with simple pantry ingredients. Whether I keep it classic or add in extra veggies or plant-based sausage, this soup always delivers bold flavor in every bowl.
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Cajun Potato Soup is a creamy, spicy, and comforting one-pot dish loaded with tender potatoes, aromatic veggies, and bold Cajun seasoning. It’s hearty and flavorful even without meat, making it a perfect plant-based option for chilly nights or whenever you crave something warm and bold.
- Author: Mayaa
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup, Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun-Inspired
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (or full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sliced green onions, hot sauce, plant-based sausage
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and bell pepper (if using); sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a light roux.
- Slowly whisk in vegetable broth to avoid lumps.
- Add potatoes, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in cream or coconut milk. Lightly mash some potatoes with a potato masher for a thicker texture.
- Add lemon juice, adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot with desired toppings like cheese, green onions, or hot sauce.
Notes
- Add corn or canned white beans for extra texture and nutrition.
- For protein, stir in plant-based sausage or cooked chicken.
- Blend part of the soup for a creamier texture while keeping some chunks.
- Use liquid smoke for more smoky flavor if desired.
- If using dairy, avoid freezing; coconut milk version freezes well.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
