There is nothing quite like a warm bowl of potato soup to soothe the soul on a chilly evening. This creamy potato soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food, blending rich flavors with a velvety texture that feels indulgent yet remains incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you are a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this dish delivers consistent results that will have everyone asking for seconds.
By focusing on simple, wholesome ingredients like russet potatoes and fresh aromatics, we create a base that is both hearty and nutritious. For those interested in the nutritional benefits, you can explore the USDA potato nutrition facts. This potato soup recipe serves as a perfect canvas for customization, making it a staple in any collection of Hearty Soup Recipes. Let’s dive into creating this masterpiece.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This creamy potato soup
This potato soup recipe is incredibly versatile and forgiving, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. You only need one large pot and a handful of pantry staples to whip up a batch that feeds a family or provides delicious leftovers. The combination of butter, heavy cream, and milk ensures every spoonful is rich and satisfying, while the simple seasoning allows the natural flavors of the potatoes to shine through.
Beyond taste, this dish is a time-saver. Unlike complicated stews that require hours of simmering, this creamy potato soup recipe comes together in under 45 minutes. It’s a fantastic way to use up potatoes sitting in your pantry and serves as a wonderful base for adding proteins like bacon or vegetables like corn. If you love this, you might also enjoy browsing other Hearty Soup Recipes for more inspiration.
Ingredients
- 2 large russet potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Sharp Knife
- Cutting Board
- Potato Masher
- Ladle
- Wooden Spoon
- Measuring Cups
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the aromatics
Start by prepping your vegetables. Peel and dice the russet potatoes into roughly 1-inch cubes; keeping them uniform ensures they cook evenly. Chop the small onion and mince the garlic cloves. In your large pot, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and foaming, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. This builds the aromatic base that is essential for a flavorful potato soup.
Step 2: Simmer the soup base
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Next, toss in the diced potatoes and pour over the 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Step 3: Mash the potatoes
Once the potatoes are soft, remove the pot from the heat. This is where the texture of your creamy potato soup recipe comes to life. Using a potato masher, gently mash the potatoes directly in the pot. You can mash them completely smooth for a silky consistency, or leave some small chunks for a rustic, hearty bite. Don’t over-mash if you want some texture remaining.
Step 4: Add dairy for creaminess
Return the pot to low heat. Stir in the 1 cup of whole milk and the 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Add the 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon to combine everything thoroughly and heat the soup through. Do not let the soup boil vigorously once the dairy has been added, as this can cause the milk to separate or curdle. A gentle simmer is perfect.
Step 5: Taste and serve
Give the soup a final taste test. This is your chance to adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. If the soup seems too thick for your preference, you can thin it out with a splash of extra broth or milk. Ladle the hot soup into bowls immediately. This creamy potato soup recipe pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a sprinkle of green onions, or crumbled bacon on top. Enjoy the warmth!
Tips
- For an even richer flavor, use Yukon Gold potatoes instead of russets; they have a naturally buttery taste.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup after mashing.
- Always add the salt gradually; you can add more at the end, but you can’t take it out once it’s in.
- To make this vegetarian, ensure you use vegetable broth and a butter alternative if needed.
- This soup thickens as it cools. Reheat leftovers gently and add a splash of liquid to loosen it up.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
FAQs
Can I freeze this creamy potato soup recipe?
Yes, you can freeze this potato soup, but be aware that the texture of the dairy may change slightly upon reheating, potentially becoming grainy. For best results, freeze the soup before adding the milk and cream, then add those ingredients when you reheat it.
How can I make this soup thicker?
If you want a thicker potato soup, you can let it simmer uncovered for longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, make a slurry with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the simmering soup until thickened.
Is this potato soup recipe gluten-free?
This specific recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided you use a certified gluten-free broth. Always double-check your labels if you are cooking for someone with celiac disease or a severe gluten intolerance.
What toppings go well with potato soup?
This creamy potato soup recipe is a blank canvas for toppings. Try shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped chives, sour cream, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for a kick.
Can I use a different type of potato?
Absolutely. While russets are great for thickening, Yukon Golds offer a creamier texture. Red potatoes hold their shape better if you prefer a chunkier soup. Just avoid waxy potatoes if you want a very smooth, creamy finish.
Conclusion
You now have everything you need to make a comforting bowl of potato soup that tastes like it simmered all day, even if you only had 45 minutes. This creamy potato soup recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients handled with care. It’s a dish that brings people together and warms you from the inside out.
We hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as we enjoyed sharing it. If you loved this potato soup, be sure to explore the rest of our Hearty Soup Recipes for more culinary inspiration. Join the conversation by leaving a comment below with your favorite toppings or variations!
