Description

Creamy Garlic Bread Soup is the ultimate cozy comfort dish that turns day-old bread and pantry staples into a velvety, garlicky bowl of deliciousness. Thickened with bread and topped with crispy homemade garlic croutons, this easy garlic soup is the perfect recipe for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something warm, rich, and a little indulgent.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Garlic Bread Soup:

14 oz day-old French bread, cubed
8 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 bay leaves
1 tsp dried thyme
2 tsp olive oil
2 tbsp minced garlic
1 tsp salt
Dash of black pepper
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Homemade Croutons:

2 cups French bread, cubed
3 tbsp melted butter
1 tbsp minced garlic
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp salt

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Instructions

Prepare the Croutons: Preheat oven to 350°F. Toss cubed bread with melted butter, minced garlic, basil, and salt. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden and crispy. Set aside.
Sauté the Flavor Base: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper for 7-8 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
Simmer the Broth: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove bay leaves.
Add Bread & Cream: Stir in cubed day-old bread and heavy cream. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the bread to soak and thicken the broth.
Blend Until Smooth: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until creamy and smooth. Stir in grated Parmesan until fully melted.
Serve & Top: Ladle soup into bowls and top generously with crispy homemade croutons. Add extra Parmesan for garnish if desired.

Notes

Use slightly stale bread for better texture and absorption.

An immersion blender is ideal for a smooth consistency; a countertop blender works too.

For extra garlic punch, rub garlic on the croutons before baking.

Adjust creaminess with more or less heavy cream to your liking.

Add a sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley for a fresh herb finish.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Soups
Method: Stovetop, Baking
Cuisine: American