Cream of Celery Soup with Potato and Milk

Name: Cream of Celery Soup with Potato and Milk
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 500 g celery stalks, sliced; 1 whole medium potato, peeled and diced; 1 whole onion, diced; 30 g unsalted butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 750 ml vegetable or chicken stock; 250 ml whole milk; 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 pinch nutmeg, optional

A smooth celery soup with potato, onion, butter and a splash of milk.

By Savva LoginovUpdated October 2, 2026

Total 50 minMakes 4 servings

Jump to Recipe

Cream of celery soup can be smooth and savoury without becoming heavy. The source uses a very large amount of both stock and milk for only a few celery stalks; this version balances celery, potato, stock and milk in a medium pot. Soften the vegetables in butter, coat them lightly with flour, then simmer until tender before blending. Add milk at the end and warm gently. Blend carefully in batches if using a countertop blender, since hot liquids expand. Melt butter in a soup pot over medium-low heat. Add celery, potato and onion; cook 8 minutes, stirring, until softened but not browned. Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir 1 minute. Gradually pour in stock while stirring. Bring to a simmer and cook 20 to 25 minutes until vegetables are very tender.

Cream of Celery Soup with Potato and Milk

How to tell when it is ready

The ingredients are tender and evenly cooked; use a food thermometer where indicated.

Tips

Measure ingredients before starting.
Use the visual doneness cues as well as the timing.
Taste and adjust seasoning near the end.
Let the dish rest briefly before serving.

Troubleshooting

If the mixture is too thick, add liquid a little at a time.
If browning too quickly, lower the heat and cover loosely.

Substitutions

Use a similar neutral cooking oil.
Choose a suitable dairy-free alternative where practical.

Variations

Adjust herbs and spices to taste.
Add seasonal vegetables that suit the cooking time.

Serving suggestions

Serve with toasted sourdough.
Add croutons.
Top with chopped celery leaves.
Pair with a simple cheese sandwich.

Make ahead

Prepare components ahead where practical. Refrigerate leftovers promptly and reheat until hot throughout.

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours in a covered container and use within 3 days. Reheat gently until hot throughout.

Food safety

Refrigerate within 2 hours and use within 3 days. Reheat gently until hot throughout; do not boil after adding milk.

Frequently asked questions

Can I prepare this ahead?

Prepare components as described, chill promptly and finish shortly before serving.

How should I store cream of celery soup?

Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours in a covered container and use within 3 days. Reheat gently until hot throughout.

Serve with toasted sourdough. Refrigerate leftovers promptly.

About the author

Savva Loginov

Savva Loginov writes about traditional Ukrainian cooking, including regional dishes, heritage baking and the customs behind familiar recipes. His English guides explain each dish’s context alongside clear, practical cooking instructions.

Cream of Celery Soup with Potato and Milk