Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)

This Easy Potato Soup Recipe is a comforting classic that brings warmth to any table. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s perfect for chilly days or cozy gatherings. This soup is quick to make, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Enjoy it as a hearty main course or a delightful side dish; this recipe will surely impress everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: This potato soup recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it easy even for beginners.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use ingredients you likely already have on hand, allowing for customizations based on your pantry.
• Rich Flavor: Thanks to the combination of fresh veggies and a creamy white sauce, this soup offers a deliciously satisfying taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, this soup fits right in.
• Comforting and Filling: Hearty potatoes and flavorful broth create a warming meal that’s sure to fill you up.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Easy Potato Soup recipe successfully, having the right tools is essential. Here are the must-have kitchen items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stock pot or 3-quart pot
• Potato masher
• Whisk
• Spatula
• 2-quart pot

Importance of Each Tool

• Stock pot or 3-quart pot: Ideal for boiling vegetables without crowding them, ensuring even cooking.
• Potato masher: Helps achieve your desired texture—from chunky to velvety smooth—without requiring extra equipment.
• Whisk: Essential for creating a lump-free white sauce (béchamel) by thoroughly mixing the flour and milk.

Ingredients

This Easy Potato Soup recipe features simple yet flavorful ingredients to create the perfect bowl of comfort.

• 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)
• shredded cheddar cheese
• chopped green onions
• chopped parsley

How to Make Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)

Step 1: Boil the Veggies

Peel the potatoes and dice them into roughly half-inch pieces. Place them in your stock pot along with the following:
Peel and dice the carrots similarly.
Smash and mince one clove of garlic before adding it to the pot.
Add three cups of water until the vegetables are just barely covered.

Step 2: Season the Mixture

Add one heaping tablespoon of Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base to enhance flavor. If needed, substitute with bouillon granules but use caution due to increased saltiness. Include:
About 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley or one tablespoon of dried parsley.
One teaspoon of kosher salt.

Step 3: Cook Until Tender

Bring everything to a boil over high heat. Once boiling:
Reduce heat to medium and let simmer with a vented lid for about twenty minutes until all vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Mash the Vegetables

Once cooked:
Use a potato masher to mash the mixture to your desired consistency—smooth or chunky.

Step 5: Make the White Sauce (Béchamel)

In another pot:
1. Melt half a cup of butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in half a cup of flour with a whisk until combined into a paste.
3. Add half a teaspoon each of kosher salt and black pepper.

Cook this mixture for one to three minutes while stirring constantly.

Step 6: Incorporate Milk Gradually

Slowly add four cups of milk, one cup at a time:
Ensure you mix well after each addition using your whisk to avoid lumps.

Wait until you see consistent bubbles rising before letting it boil for one minute while stirring frequently.

Step 7: Combine Everything Together

Carefully pour your white sauce into the pot containing your mashed potato mixture:
Use a spatula to scrape out every bit of goodness. Stir until well combined.

Step 8: Serve Your Delicious Soup

Ladle warm potato soup into bowls and garnish with:
Extra chopped parsley, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions.

Step 9: Store Leftovers Properly

Keep any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Avoid freezing as potatoes absorb moisture, leading to grainy soup upon thawing.

Enjoy sharing this easy potato soup recipe with friends or family—it might just become everyone’s new favorite!

How to Serve Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)

Serving your Easy Potato Soup can be as delightful as making it. The right accompaniments can elevate the experience, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Chives – Offers a mild onion flavor that complements the soup.

With Cheesy Toppings

• Shredded cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully on top, adding richness.
• Parmesan cheese – A sprinkle adds a nutty flavor that enhances the soup’s creaminess.

With Crunchy Elements

• Croutons – Provides a satisfying crunch and texture contrast.
• Toasted nuts – Adds a unique flavor and crunch, try walnuts or pecans.

With Bread Options

• Garlic bread – Perfect for dipping, adds garlicky goodness to each bite.
• Dinner rolls – Soft and warm, perfect for soaking up the soup.

With Extra Vegetables

• Sautéed mushrooms – Adds earthiness and depth to each bowl.
• Roasted broccoli – A nutritious addition that pairs well with the creamy base.

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How to Perfect Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)

Perfecting your Easy Potato Soup is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out amazing every time.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh potatoes and vegetables enhance the soup’s flavor and texture.
• Adjust seasoning wisely – Taste as you go; you can always add more salt or spices but can’t take them out once added.
• Control the heat – Keep your simmer steady; too high can scorch the bottom while too low might not cook everything evenly.
• Experiment with textures – Adjust how much you mash the potatoes based on whether you prefer a chunky or smooth soup.
• Incorporate flavors gradually – Adding seasonings at various stages can deepen the overall taste of your soup.

Best Side Dishes for Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Potato Soup can create a well-rounded meal that pleases everyone. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Garden Salad – A fresh salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
2. Stuffed Peppers – Hearty stuffed peppers add protein and complement the creamy texture of the soup.
3. Coleslaw – The crunchiness of coleslaw provides a great contrast to the smoothness of potato soup.
4. Quiche Lorraine – This savory pie adds an elegant touch with its buttery crust and cheesy filling.
5. Baked Potatoes – For a comforting touch, serve alongside baked potatoes topped with sour cream and chives.
6. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – A classic pairing that provides warmth and cheesy goodness alongside your soup.
7. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful sweetness that pairs well with savory flavors.
8. Vegetable Platter – Serve raw veggies with ranch dip for a light, crunchy accompaniment that contrasts nicely with the soup’s creaminess.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can make your Potato Soup Recipe (Easy) even better. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong potatoes: Not all potatoes are created equal. Using waxy potatoes instead of starchy ones like Russet can result in a less creamy soup.
• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your soup properly can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking the potatoes and carrots for too long can make them mushy. Keep an eye on them and remove from heat when they’re tender.
• Not mashing enough: If you want a creamy soup, be sure to mash the veggies well. Leaving large chunks will change the texture significantly.
• Dumping in milk too fast: Adding milk quickly can cause lumps in your white sauce. Gradually incorporate it for a smooth consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• • Containers: Use glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids.

Freezing Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)

• • Duration: This soup does not freeze well due to the potato texture.
• • Containers: If you must freeze, use freezer-safe bags but expect a change in texture upon reheating.

Reheating Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Pour into a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in short intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring often until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people have about this Potato Soup Recipe (Easy).

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to include vegetables like corn, celery, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

What type of milk is best?

Whole milk provides the creamiest texture, but you can also use low-fat or plant-based milk if preferred.

How do I thicken the soup?

If you prefer a thicker soup, simply mash more of the potato mixture or add a cornstarch slurry during cooking.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute butter with vegan butter and use plant-based milk and vegetable broth instead of chicken base.

Is this potato soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, swap out regular flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch when making the white sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Potato Soup recipe is comforting and versatile, perfect for any occasion. You can customize it with your favorite toppings like crispy bacon or additional herbs. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly day or as part of a cozy dinner party, this soup is sure to impress everyone at your table!