Potato soup is a timeless classic that brings warmth and comfort with every spoonful. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly night, a creamy dish to impress your guests, or a quick and satisfying meal, potato soup is a perfect choice. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the best potato soup, including variations, tips, and step-by-step instructions.
Why You’ll Love This Potato Soup Recipe
- Creamy and Hearty – This soup is thick, rich, and satisfying.
- Easy to Make – Requires simple ingredients and minimal effort.
- Customizable – You can add bacon, cheese, vegetables, or herbs to make it your own.
- Budget-Friendly – Potatoes are affordable and readily available year-round.
- Great for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Ingredients for the Best Potato Soup
To make a delicious and creamy potato soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Basic Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold work best)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
Optional Additions:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Gouda, or Parmesan)
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup corn or diced carrots
- 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small, even cubes. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and have your other ingredients ready for easy cooking.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. This step helps thicken the soup.
4. Add Broth and Potatoes
Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while stirring. Add the diced potatoes and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
5. Blend for Creaminess
For a smooth soup, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until creamy. If you prefer a chunky texture, blend only half of the soup or mash some potatoes with a fork.
6. Add Cream and Seasonings
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream (or milk), sour cream, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Allow it to heat through but avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
7. Add Toppings and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions for extra flavor and texture.
Variations of Potato Soup
1. Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Top your soup with all the classic baked potato toppings: cheddar cheese, sour cream, crispy bacon, and green onions.
2. Cheesy Potato Soup
Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese for a rich and cheesy soup. Sharp cheddar or smoked Gouda work well.
3. Vegan Potato Soup
Use vegetable broth, coconut milk, or almond milk instead of dairy, and replace butter with olive oil.
4. Spicy Potato Soup
Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
5. Chunky Potato Soup
Skip blending for a hearty, chunky soup with visible pieces of potatoes.
Expert Tips for Perfect Potato Soup
- Use Starchy Potatoes – Russet potatoes make the creamiest soup, while Yukon Gold potatoes add a buttery flavor.
- Don’t Overblend – Over-blending can make the soup gluey. Blend just enough to reach your desired texture.
- Season Well – Potatoes absorb a lot of flavor, so be generous with seasoning.
- Make it Thicker – Add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) if you want a thicker consistency.
- Store Leftovers Properly – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Potato Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! Potato soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently and add a splash of milk or broth if it thickens too much.
Can I Freeze Potato Soup?
Potato soup can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly. If freezing, avoid adding dairy until reheating.
What Goes Well with Potato Soup?
Serve with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Potato soup is a comforting and delicious dish that’s easy to customize and perfect for any occasion. Whether you like it smooth or chunky, classic or loaded with toppings, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Try it out, experiment with variations, and enjoy a bowl of homemade goodness!