Potato Leek Soup

Potato Leek Soup
Prep Time: 20 min
Total Time: 1 hr min
Makes: 8 servings, 1 cup each




2 Tbsp. olive oil
4 large leeks, cut into 1/4-inch thick slices (about 2 lb.)
4 large russet potatoes, peeled, cubed (about 4 cups)
1-1/4 qt. (5 cups) water
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1 pkg. (8 oz.) PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, cubed
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup chopped fresh chives



HEAT oil in large stockpot on medium heat. Add leeks; cook 5 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally. Add potatoes, water, salt and pepper; stir. Cover. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer 15 to 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Cool 10 minutes.
ADD leek mixture, in batches, to blender container; cover. Blend until pureed. Return to stockpot.
WHISK in cream cheese, a few cubes at a time; cook on medium heat until cream cheese is completely melted, stirring constantly. Add milk; cook until heated through, stirring occasionally. Sprinkle with chives just before serving.