Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that warms your soul, this Potato Soup Recipe (Easy) is just what you need. It’s like a hug in a bowl! This recipe was passed down to me from the granddaughter of an Idaho potato farmer, and let me tell you, it’s a family favorite for good reason. Creamy, thick, and oh-so-delicious, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a hearty soup that everyone will love!

There’s something special about gathering around a steaming pot of soup, sharing stories and laughter. With this easy potato soup recipe, you can create those moments in your own home. Let’s dive into why this recipe is one you’ll want to keep close!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This potato soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and mild flavors, even picky eaters will enjoy every spoonful.
• Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this soup fills you up without weighing you down.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand! This recipe is forgiving and allows for some delicious variations.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Make a big batch and enjoy the leftovers throughout the week—just store them in the fridge!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients makes cooking feel like a breeze! For this delightful potato soup recipe, you’ll need:

• 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
• 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 (for garnish)
• chopped green onions (for garnish)
• chopped parsley (for garnish)

Variations

One of the best parts about this potato soup recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Add some greens: Toss in some spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for an extra nutrient boost.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes for a little kick.
• Swap the veggies: Mix in other vegetables like corn or celery for different flavors and textures.
• Make it creamy: Stir in some cream cheese or sour cream after cooking for an ultra-rich finish.

How to Make Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)

Step 1: Boil the Veggies

Start by peeling and dicing your potatoes into small cubes—about half an inch works well. Place them into a stock pot along with diced carrots. The size doesn’t need to be perfect; we just want them to cook evenly. Smash and mince that clove of garlic and toss it in too!

Next, add enough water to barely cover the veggies—this will help create that beautiful broth later on. Finally, mix in your Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base along with fresh parsley and kosher salt. Bring everything to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce to medium heat to maintain a steady simmer for about 20 minutes until everything is tender.

Step 2: Mash It Up

Once your vegetables are cooked through—easily smashed with a fork—remove from heat. Grab your potato masher and give everything a good mash! This step is all about creating that desired texture; mash until it’s velvety but still has some chunks if you prefer.

Step 3: Make the White Sauce

In another pot, melt your butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour while whisking continuously until it forms a paste—this is called roux! Stir in kosher salt and black pepper while cooking for another couple of minutes. Then slowly add your milk one cup at a time, continually whisking until smooth before adding more. Be patient here; it ensures there are no lumps in your final soup!

Step 4: Combine Everything

When your white sauce has come to a gentle boil with bubbles rising from the center, remove it from heat. Pour this creamy goodness into your pot of mashed potatoes and veggies! Use a spatula to scrape every last bit into the mix then stir until everything is combined beautifully.

Step 5: Serve Up Some Warmth

Now it’s time to serve! Ladle that warm soup into bowls and garnish with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and extra parsley if desired. Enjoy every comforting bite—you’ve earned it!

Don’t forget: leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to five days but avoid freezing as that can change the texture negatively. Time to invite someone over for soup and stories—it should definitely be a thing!

Pro Tips for Making Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)

Making the perfect potato soup can be a rewarding experience, and with a few tips, you’ll create a bowl of comfort that everyone will love!

• Choose the right potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their starchy texture, which helps thicken the soup and creates that creamy consistency we all crave.
• Don’t rush the simmering: Allowing the potatoes and carrots to simmer until tender is crucial. This step ensures they break down and blend beautifully into the soup, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Mash to your preference: Whether you like it chunky or smooth, mashing gives you control over the texture. A potato masher provides a rustic feel, while an immersion blender offers a silky finish—choose what suits your taste!
• Whisk slowly when adding milk: Gradually incorporating milk into the roux prevents lumps from forming. This will keep your soup creamy and free from flour chunks that can ruin the texture.
• Serve it fresh: While leftovers can be stored in the fridge, enjoy your soup fresh for the best flavor and creaminess. Invite friends over to share in the warmth of this delicious dish!

How to Serve Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)

Serving potato soup is all about presentation and complementing flavors. Here are some delightful ways to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: These add a fresh, zesty crunch that brightens up each bite.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Sprinkle some on top for a rich, melty finish that enhances that comforting vibe.
• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that balances out the creaminess of the soup.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread makes for an irresistible pairing with potato soup.
• Simple green salad: Toss together mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
• Grilled cheese sandwiches: The classic combination of gooey cheese between buttery toasted bread perfectly complements warm potato soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add another layer of flavor and nutrition while being easy to prepare alongside your soup.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Easy Potato Soup will not only warm hearts but also create lasting memories around the dinner table! Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Potato Soup recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Store soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
• Make sure to let the soup cool to room temperature before refrigerating.

Freezing

• Unfortunately, freezing this soup isn’t recommended as potatoes absorb moisture and can become grainy.
• If you must freeze it, consider omitting the milk and adding it after thawing.

Reheating

• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If reheating in the microwave, use a microwave-safe container and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this Easy Potato Soup recipe:

Can I make this Potato Soup Recipe (Easy) dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute the whole milk with a plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk. Just be sure to choose an unsweetened variety for the best flavor.

What type of potatoes are best for Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)?

Russet potatoes are ideal because they become creamy when cooked. However, Yukon Golds also work well if you prefer a slightly buttery flavor.

How do I thicken my potato soup?

If you find your soup is too thin, you can mash more of the potatoes or add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water. Stir this mixture into your soup and cook until thickened.

Can I add other vegetables to this Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like celery, corn, or peas to enhance the flavor and nutrition of your soup.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Easy Potato Soup recipe warms your heart and belly just as it has mine! It’s a special dish that brings comfort and joy, perfect for sharing with friends or family. Enjoy making it as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you! Remember, cooking is all about love—so get in that kitchen and create something delicious!