There's nothing quite as comforting on a chilly day as a bowl of hearty potato soup. Creamy, flavorful, and easy to make, potato soup is the perfect meal for cozy evenings. This recipe blends classic ingredients with simple techniques to create a bowl of pure comfort. Follow along as we guide you through making this delicious potato soup step by step.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for a pot of cozy potato soup:
Basic Ingredients:
- 6 medium potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk (for creaminess)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices of bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 green onions (chopped for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized cubes.
- Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Measure and set aside the broth, cream, and other ingredients.
2. Sauté Aromatics
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until the onions are translucent, about 3–5 minutes. This step adds depth to the flavor.
3. Cook the Potatoes
- Add the diced potatoes and broth to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Make the Roux
- In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Slowly whisk in ½ cup of the soup’s hot broth to create a thick roux.
5. Blend the Soup
- Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup directly in the pot. This creates a creamy texture while leaving some chunks of potato for heartiness. Alternatively, transfer half the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
6. Add Creaminess
- Stir in the roux to thicken the soup.
- Add the heavy cream or milk, stirring to combine.
- If using cheese, stir it in now until melted and smooth.
7. Season to Taste
- Add salt and pepper to suit your taste preferences.
- Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
8. Garnish and Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes, such as crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar, sour cream, or green onions.
Tips for the Best Potato Soup
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best because they become tender and creamy when cooked.
- Thicken Naturally: For a healthier option, skip the roux and use an extra potato to thicken the soup naturally.
- Balance Flavors: A splash of lemon juice or a dash of nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile.
- Make It Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the bacon.
Variations of Potato Soup
1. Loaded Potato Soup
Add all the toppings you’d find on a loaded baked potato: sour cream, cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and chives.
2. Vegan Potato Soup
Use coconut milk instead of cream and olive oil instead of butter. Season with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
3. Spicy Potato Soup
Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
4. Ham and Potato Soup
Stir in diced ham or leftover holiday ham for a protein boost.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
- Reheat: Warm in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or milk if the soup is too thick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make Potato Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! Potato soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
2. How Do I Avoid Gummy Soup?
Avoid overblending the potatoes, as this can release too much starch and make the soup gummy.
3. Can I Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes?
Absolutely! Stir them into the broth for a quick and creamy soup base.
Final Thoughts
Potato soup is a classic recipe that’s versatile, hearty, and utterly satisfying. Whether you stick to the basics or add your own creative twists, this cozy dish is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Now, gather your ingredients and enjoy the comforting warmth of homemade potato soup!
