Warm and comforting, potato soup is a classic dish that brings a sense of home and nostalgia to any table. This creamy soup is perfect for busy weeknights or chilly days when you crave something nourishing yet simple to prepare.
With its rich flavors derived from sautéed onions and garlic, combined with the natural creaminess of Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes, this soup is sure to delight your taste buds. Whether served as a hearty main course or a delightful starter, it’s a dish that unites families and friends.
Easy Potato Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 medium Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnishes: crispy bacon bits, chopped fresh chives, shredded cheese, sour cream
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the diced Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes to the pot, mixing well with the onions and garlic.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer in batches to a standard blender, blending until creamy.
- Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat the soup again over low heat until warmed through.
- Serve hot, topped with your favorite garnishes such as crispy bacon or fresh chives.
Top Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding a bay leaf while simmering the soup and removing it before blending.
- Use a mix of potato varieties for a more complex flavor and texture.
- For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or a plant-based alternative.
- To enhance the soup’s richness, roast the potatoes in the oven before adding them to the pot.
- Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Variations
- Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Add toppings like cheddar cheese, sour cream, and green onions.
- Cheesy Potato Soup: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy twist.
- Vegan Potato Soup: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use vegetable broth.
- Herbed Potato Soup: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during cooking for added flavor.
- Spicy Potato Soup: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.
Nutritional Guide
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving (1 cup) |
|---|---|
| Servings | 6 |
| Calories | 350 |
| Total Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Protein | 5g |
*Additional Nutritional Notes*: This potato soup is a hearty option, providing a good source of carbohydrates from the potatoes, while the heavy cream adds richness and calories.
For a lighter alternative, consider reducing the cream or using plant-based options. The soup can be easily portioned and stored for later meals, making it a convenient choice for meal prep.
FAQs
How long does it take to make easy potato soup?
This simple potato soup typically takes about 30-35 minutes total, with 10 minutes of prep and 20-25 minutes of cooking time. The potatoes cook quickly when diced into small, uniform pieces.
Can I make potato soup ahead of time?
Potato soup can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The soup may thicken when chilled, so thin it with a bit of milk or broth when reheating.
What potatoes work best for potato soup?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal for potato soup because they break down slightly during cooking, creating a naturally creamy texture. Yukon Golds have a buttery flavor while Russets are more starchy and help thicken the soup.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
While peeling is optional, it’s recommended to peel the potatoes for the smoothest, most traditional potato soup texture. If using thin-skinned Yukon Golds and you enjoy potato skins, you can leave them on for extra nutrition and rustic texture.
Can I freeze potato soup?
Potato soup isn’t ideal for freezing because potatoes can become grainy and the dairy-based broth might separate when thawed. If you must freeze it, reheat gently while stirring constantly and be prepared to add fresh cream to restore the texture.
Conclusion
This cozy potato soup is proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. With just a handful of simple ingredients and less than an hour of your time, you’ll have a creamy, satisfying bowl of soup that tastes like it simmered all day.
Feel free to make it your own by adding your favorite toppings – whether that’s a mountain of crispy bacon, a handful of shredded cheese, or a sprinkle of fresh chives.
Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a bowl of pure comfort!
