Creamy Garlic Bread Soup with Homemade Croutons

This Creamy Garlic Bread Soup with Homemade Croutons is the ultimate comfort food. Rich, velvety, and bursting with roasted garlic flavor, this soup is perfect for chilly nights. Topped with golden, crispy croutons made from fresh bread, every bite is a delightful blend of creamy and crunchy textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and flavorful with deep, roasted garlic notes
• Comforting and creamy yet easy to make
• Perfect for chilly weather or a cozy appetizer
• Uses simple pantry ingredients for an affordable meal
• Customizable with extra toppings like cheese or fresh herbs

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Soup:

• 1 head of garlic, roasted
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Homemade Croutons:

• 2 cups cubed bread (French, sourdough, or baguette)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)

Directions

Roasting the Garlic:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Slice off the top of the garlic head to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and bake for 35-40 minutes until soft and golden.
3. Let cool, then squeeze out the roasted garlic cloves.

Making the Soup:

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft.
2. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
3. Slowly whisk in broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Add the roasted garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Blend the soup with an immersion blender until smooth.
6. Stir in cream and Parmesan cheese, cooking until warmed through.

Making the Croutons:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Toss cubed bread with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden and crispy.

Serving:

1. Ladle soup into bowls and top with homemade croutons.
2. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes (including roasting garlic)
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Extra Cheesy: Add shredded cheddar or Gruyère for a richer soup.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter, milk, and cheese alternatives.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or extra red pepper flakes.
• Protein Boost: Top with crispy bacon or shredded chicken.
• Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh basil, parsley, or chives before serving.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. For croutons, re-toast in the oven for a few minutes.

FAQs

Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of roasting a whole head?

Roasting whole garlic gives the soup a sweeter, deeper flavor. Pre-minced garlic won’t provide the same richness, but you can sauté it instead.

What type of bread works best for croutons?

French bread, sourdough, or a baguette gives the best texture for crispy croutons.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! The flavors deepen as it sits, so making it a day in advance can enhance the taste.

How do I make the soup thicker?

Add more flour while making the roux or reduce the amount of broth slightly.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the soup will be slightly less rich. Whole milk or half-and-half works best.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour for the roux and gluten-free bread for croutons to make it gluten-free.

What can I serve with this soup?

A side salad, grilled cheese, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian-friendly version.

How do I prevent the cream from curdling?

Add the cream at the end and stir over low heat to prevent separation.

Can I make this soup without blending?

Yes, but blending gives it a smoother, creamier consistency. If you prefer a chunkier texture, simply mash the garlic and leave the soup unblended.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Bread Soup with Homemade Croutons is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich garlic flavor, velvety texture, and crunchy croutons, it’s sure to be a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a bowl of pure comfort!

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