Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)
This Potato Soup Recipe (Easy) will warm your heart and fill your belly. It’s perfect for cozy nights in, gatherings with friends, or family dinners. This creamy soup is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The flavor is rich and comforting, with the option to add a cheesy topping for an extra indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Cooking: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, perfect for those busy evenings.
- Comforting Flavor: Creamy and thick, this potato soup delivers a hearty taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile Ingredients: Adjust the flavors by adding your favorite herbs or spices; it’s easy to make it your own.
- Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family meals.
- Leftover Perks: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days—perfect for meal prep or quick lunches!
Tools and Preparation
To make this easy potato soup, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stock pot or 3-quart pot
- Potato masher
- Whisk
- 2-quart pot
Importance of Each Tool
- Stock Pot: Ideal for boiling vegetables and making the soup base; its larger size accommodates all ingredients perfectly.
- Potato Masher: Helps achieve your desired texture in the soup, whether you prefer it chunky or smooth.
- Whisk: Essential for creating a smooth white sauce without lumps, ensuring a creamy consistency.
Ingredients
This Easy Potato Soup recipe is the real deal. Shared with me from the granddaughter of an Idaho potato farmer, this homemade soup is creamy, thick, and luxurious, even without the optional cheesy garnish. It is truly the best potato soup I’ve ever had. And it only takes about 30 minutes to make!
- 4 cups diced Russet potatoes (2 large potatoes, about 2 pounds)
- 1 cup diced carrots (about 2 large)
- 1 clove garlic (mashed and diced)
- 3 cups water
- 1 tablespoon Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base (chicken or turkey flavor is great)
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup butter (one stick)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups milk (whole milk is best)
- Cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions
- Chopped parsley
How to Make Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)
Step 1: Boil the Veggies
Peel the potatoes (2 large potatoes, about 2 lbs) and dice them into a fairly small size, about 1/2 inch. Place them in a stock pot or 3-quart pot.
Step 2: Prepare Carrots
Peel the carrots and dice them to match the size of the potatoes. Add these diced carrots to your pot.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Smash and mince 1 clove of garlic. Add it to the pot along with the potatoes and carrots.
Step 4: Add Water
Pour in 3 cups of water so that it barely covers the vegetables. Adjust if needed; remember this water will be part of your soup.
Step 5: Include Bouillon Base
Stir in a heaping tablespoon of Better Than Bouillon Base for added flavor. If you don’t have this specific brand, use bouillon granules or cubes carefully as they are saltier.
Step 6: Fresh Parsley
Chop about 1/4 cup of fresh parsley (or use dried). Mix it into the pot with other ingredients.
Step 7: Season & Simmer
Add 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Bring everything to a boil over high heat then reduce to medium heat for a steady simmer. Cover with a lid tilted for steam escape. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes until tender enough to smash with a fork.
Step 8: Mash Potatoes
Using a potato masher, mash the mixture roughly according to your texture preference—smooth or chunky.
Step 9: Make White Sauce
In another pot, melt 1/2 cup butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 1/2 cup flour until combined into a paste. Season with salt and pepper while cooking for about 1–3 minutes.
Step 10: Incorporate Milk
Gradually whisk in milk one cup at a time until fully incorporated into the roux. Stir constantly until smooth; avoid adding all at once to prevent lumps.
Step 11: Boil Sauce
Keep stirring while bringing it to a boil—look for consistent bubbles rising from the center—and let boil for one minute before removing from heat.
Step 12: Combine Mixtures
Pour this white sauce into your potato mixture using a spatula to scrape all remaining goodness from your bechamel pot. Stir well together.
Step 13: Serve & Garnish
Serve warm! Garnish each bowl with extra chopped parsley, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions as desired.
Step 14: Store Leftovers
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days; avoid freezing as this may alter texture negatively due to potato moisture absorption.
Enjoy sharing this delightful potato soup with friends over stories!
How to Serve Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)
Serving your Easy Potato Soup can be a delightful experience, enhancing the comforting flavors of this dish. Here are some creative ideas to elevate your soup presentation and enjoyment.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
- Chives – Finely chopped chives add a mild onion-like taste, perfect for garnish.
Add a Cheesy Touch
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melted cheddar is a classic topping that adds richness.
- Parmesan Cheese – A sprinkle of grated Parmesan provides a salty kick.
Accompany with Crispy Toppings
- Croutons – Crunchy croutons offer texture contrast and can be seasoned for extra flavor.
- Bacon Bits – Crispy bacon adds a savory touch that pairs perfectly with creamy soup.
Serve with Bread
- Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread complements the soup’s creaminess and adds a hearty element.
- Dinner Rolls – Soft rolls are great for dipping into the warm soup.
How to Perfect Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)
To make sure your Easy Potato Soup reaches its full potential, consider these tips for an even better outcome.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh potatoes and vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of your soup.
- Control the Thickness – Adjust the amount of milk or broth based on your desired consistency; add more for a thinner soup or less for thicker.
- Season Gradually – Taste as you go; this helps you control saltiness and ensures balanced flavors.
- Experiment with Add-Ins – Try adding cooked chicken or other veggies like corn for variety and nutrition.
- Let it Rest Before Serving – Allowing your soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking enhances the flavors as they meld together.
Best Side Dishes for Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)
Pairing side dishes with your Easy Potato Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Garden Salad – A light salad with mixed greens adds freshness and crunch to balance the creamy soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich – The classic combination of gooey cheese between crispy bread makes it a comforting pairing.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional nutrients and earthy flavors that complement potato soup well.
- Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms can serve as bite-sized additions that enhance your meal experience.
- Pasta Salad – A cold pasta salad offers a refreshing contrast, making it an ideal side dish choice.
- Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins provide a deliciously sweet contrast to the savory soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making this Potato Soup Recipe (Easy) is simple, but some common mistakes can affect the final product. Here are a few to watch for:
- Incorrect Potato Size: Cutting potatoes too large can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for a uniform 1/2-inch dice for even texture.
- Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking the potatoes and carrots too long can make them mushy. Simmer just until tender, about 20 minutes.
- Skipping the Mashed Step: Not mashing the soup can result in an unappealing texture. Mash it to your desired consistency for creaminess.
- Not Venting the Lid: Covering the pot completely while simmering traps steam and can cause boiling over. Tilt the lid to let steam escape.
- Dumping Milk All At Once: Adding all the milk at once can create lumps in your soup. Gradually whisk it in for a smooth, creamy sauce.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)
- It is not recommended to freeze this soup; potatoes absorb moisture and may become grainy when thawed.
Reheating Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1 minute, stirring after each interval.
- Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir often until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about this delightful recipe. Here are some of the most common inquiries:
Can I make this Potato Soup Recipe (Easy) vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap chicken broth with vegetable broth or water and use a plant-based butter substitute.
What type of potatoes should I use for potato soup?
Russet potatoes work best due to their starchy content, which creates a creamy texture.
How do I thicken my potato soup?
You can thicken your soup by mashing more potatoes or adding a little extra flour or cornstarch mixed with cold water.
What toppings go well with potato soup?
Garnish with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or crispy bacon bits for added flavor and texture.
Can I customize this easy potato soup recipe?
Absolutely! Experiment by adding ingredients like bacon, chives, or even vegetables like corn or broccoli.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Potato Soup recipe is both comforting and versatile. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you want something heartwarming. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or ingredients to make it uniquely yours. Don’t hesitate to invite friends over; sharing a bowl of warm soup brings everyone together!
Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Warm up your evenings with this delightful Easy Potato Soup Recipe that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Perfect for cozy nights in or family gatherings, this creamy soup takes just 30 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. With its rich and hearty flavor, you can easily customize it by adding herbs, spices, or a cheesy topping for an indulgent twist. Whether enjoyed solo or shared with loved ones, each bowl promises warmth and satisfaction.
Ingredients
- 4 cups diced Russet potatoes
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 3 cups water
- 1 tablespoon Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
Instructions
- In a stock pot, combine diced potatoes, carrots, and minced garlic. Add enough water to cover the vegetables.
- Stir in the chicken bouillon base and chopped parsley. Season with salt.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat and simmer until tender (about 20 minutes).
- Mash the mixture to your desired texture.
- In another pot, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Bring the white sauce to a boil for one minute before combining it with the potato mixture.
- Serve warm and garnish with cheese and green onions as desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
