Creating a bowl of Cajun Potato Soup is simple if you follow these straightforward steps:

1. Heat Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until they soften, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Potatoes: Stir in the diced potatoes, ensuring they are mixed well with the sautéed vegetables.
4. Pour in Broth: Add the vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
5. Season: Stir in the Cajun seasoning, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Allow it to simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Blend: For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup slightly, leaving some chunks for heartiness.
7. Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and heat through, allowing the soup to warm without boiling.
8. Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed.
9. Garnish and Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy your incredible Cajun Potato Soup!