Potato soup recipe is a classic comfort food that is creamy, rich, and filling. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, it is a go-to meal for cold weather and cozy nights.
The key to a great potato soup lies in choosing the right potatoes, using flavorful seasonings, and achieving the perfect texture. If you love hearty, warm meals, you may also enjoy this Hamburger Potato Casserole, which combines ground beef and potatoes in a creamy, baked dish.
Additionally, the best potato soups are made using a balance of cream, broth, and simple seasonings. For another delicious and easy homemade soup, check out this Tomato Soup Recipe, which pairs perfectly with grilled cheese.
Essential Ingredients for Potato Soup Recipe
Choosing the Right Potatoes
- Russet potatoes – High starch content for a creamy texture
- Yukon Gold potatoes – Naturally buttery and smooth
- Red potatoes – Hold their shape well for a chunkier soup
Broth and Dairy
- Chicken broth – Adds depth of flavor
- Vegetable broth – A great vegetarian option
- Heavy cream or whole milk – For extra richness
- Butter – Enhances the creaminess
Seasonings and Add-Ins
- Salt, black pepper, and garlic powder for seasoning
- Cheddar cheese, bacon, and sour cream for a loaded version
- Green onions or fresh parsley for garnish
If you love creamy and flavorful dishes, try this Green Bean Casserole for another rich and comforting meal.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Potato Soup Recipe
1: Prepping the Ingredients
- Peel and dice potatoes into small cubes.
- Chop onions, celery, and garlic for extra flavor.
2: Sautéing Aromatics
- Melt butter in a large pot.
- Add onions, garlic, and celery and sauté until fragrant.
3: Cooking the Potatoes
- Add diced potatoes to the pot.
- Pour in chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Simmer until potatoes are tender (about 20 minutes).
4: Blending the Soup
- Use an immersion blender for a smooth texture.
- For a chunkier soup, mash some potatoes while leaving others whole.
5: Adding Dairy and Seasoning
- Stir in cream or milk for a velvety consistency.
- Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste.
6: Final Touches
- Top with bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
For a different potato-based recipe with a crispy twist, check out these Viral Smashed Potatoes, a popular side dish known for its golden, crunchy texture.
Variations of Potato Soup
Loaded Baked Potato Soup
- Topped with crispy bacon, shredded cheddar, and sour cream.
Creamy Vegan Potato Soup
- Uses coconut milk and vegetable broth instead of dairy.
German-Style Kartoffelsuppe
- Includes carrots, leeks, and sausage for a hearty twist.
Slow Cooker or Instant Pot Potato Soup
- A hands-off method that develops deep, rich flavors.
For another easy one-pot meal, try this One-Pan Meals Guide, which offers delicious, time-saving recipes.
How to Store and Reheat Potato Soup
Refrigeration
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
- Avoid freezing soups with heavy cream, as they may separate.
- Freeze in individual portions for easy reheating.
Reheating Methods
- Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, stirring frequently.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
If you love meal-prep-friendly dishes, check out this Mississippi Pot Roast, a slow-cooked meal perfect for batch cooking.
Additional Resources for Perfecting Your Potato Soup
To elevate your potato soup to the next level, it helps to understand the best cooking techniques, ingredient choices, and troubleshooting methods. Here are some expert resources to help you refine your recipe.
1. The Best Way to Thicken Soups Without Flour
Not everyone wants to use flour as a thickener, especially if they are following a gluten-free diet. There are several alternative ways to create a rich and creamy soup without flour, including using a cornstarch slurry, puréed potatoes, or heavy cream. Learn more about how to thicken soups naturally in this The Kitchn guide.
2. The Health Benefits of Potatoes in Your Diet
Potatoes are often misunderstood as unhealthy, but they are packed with fiber, vitamins, and essential nutrients. Depending on the variety, they can be a great source of potassium, vitamin C, and antioxidants. For more information on how potatoes contribute to a balanced diet, read this Healthline article on the nutritional benefits of potatoes.
3. How to Use an Immersion Blender for Perfectly Creamy Soups
If you want your potato soup to have a smooth, velvety texture, using an immersion blender is a great technique. Unlike traditional blenders, immersion blenders allow you to blend soup directly in the pot without transferring hot liquid. Learn how to use an immersion blender effectively in this Serious Eats guide on blending techniques for soups.
By following these additional resources, you can enhance the texture, nutrition, and overall quality of your potato soup. Whether you prefer it chunky or smooth, dairy-based or vegan, these expert tips will help you create the perfect bowl every time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make Potato Soup Without Dairy?
Yes, you can make a dairy-free version of potato soup without sacrificing creaminess. Here are some great alternatives to traditional heavy cream or milk:
- Coconut milk – Adds a slight sweetness and creamy texture.
- Cashew cream – Blends soaked cashews with water for a rich, dairy-free substitute.
- Almond or oat milk – Works best for a lighter version but may require thickening.
- Vegetable broth with mashed potatoes – Naturally thickens the soup without adding dairy.
For more dairy-free soup recipes, check out this Healthline guide on non-dairy milk alternatives and their best uses in cooking.
2. What Is the Best Thickener for Potato Soup?
There are multiple ways to thicken potato soup, depending on dietary preferences:
- Flour-based roux – A classic thickener made by cooking butter and flour before adding liquid.
- Cornstarch slurry – Mixes cornstarch with water to thicken soup without flour.
- Mashed potatoes – Naturally thickens the soup without adding extra ingredients.
- Heavy cream or sour cream – Increases richness while making the soup more indulgent.
To learn more about thickening soups without flour, visit The Kitchn’s guide on soup thickening techniques.
3. Why Does My Potato Soup Turn Gluey?
If your soup turns out sticky or gluey, it is likely due to over-blending the potatoes. Over-processing releases too much starch, making the texture unpleasant. Here are ways to prevent this:
- Use a potato masher instead of a blender for a chunkier soup.
- If blending, use an immersion blender sparingly to avoid over-processing.
- Avoid using a food processor as it breaks down the starch too much.
For best practices when using an immersion blender, read this Serious Eats guide on how to blend soups without ruining their texture.
4. Can I Make Potato Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, potato soup is a great make-ahead meal, but you need to store it properly:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Avoid freezing soups with cream or milk, as they may separate when reheated.
- Reheating: Warm on low heat, stirring often, to prevent separation.
For more storage and reheating tips, check out The Kitchn’s guide on freezing and reheating soups properly.
5. What Are the Best Toppings for Potato Soup recipe?
Toppings can enhance the flavor and texture of potato soup. Popular toppings include:
- Shredded cheddar cheese for a sharp, melty richness
- Chopped bacon for a smoky, crispy bite
- Sour cream for tanginess
- Green onions or chives for freshness
- Croutons for crunch
For more ways to customize your soup, check out this Serious Eats guide on the best garnishes for creamy soups.
6. Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Regular Potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be used for a unique twist on traditional potato soup:
- They add a natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- They are rich in vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants.
- They pair well with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or smoked paprika.
To learn more about the health benefits of sweet potatoes, check out this Healthline article on why they are a great alternative to regular potatoes.
7. Can I Make Potato Soup recipe in an Instant Pot or Slow Cooker?
Yes, using an Instant Pot or slow cooker makes potato soup more convenient:
Instant Pot Method:
- Sauté onions, garlic, and celery in the Instant Pot.
- Add potatoes, broth, and seasonings.
- Pressure cook on high for 10 minutes, then quick-release.
- Stir in cream and cheese, and blend if desired.
Slow Cooker Method:
- Add all ingredients except dairy to the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Stir in cream and cheese before serving.
For more slow cooker soup recipes, check out The Kitchn’s Slow Cooker Guide.
8. What Proteins Can I Add to Potato Soup?
Adding protein makes potato soup more filling. Here are some great options:
- Cooked and crumbled bacon for a smoky, crispy addition
- Shredded chicken for a lean protein boost
- Ground sausage for a hearty, savory flavor
- Lentils or white beans for a plant-based option
For more ideas on high-protein soups, check out Healthline’s Guide to Protein-Rich Meals.
Final Thoughts
Potato soup is a warm, comforting dish that can be customized in endless ways. Whether you prefer it creamy, chunky, loaded, or dairy-free, this recipe is easy to make and perfect for any season.
For another classic, homemade comfort food, try this Chicken Parmesan Casserole, which combines crispy chicken with a rich tomato sauce and melted cheese.
Would you try this classic potato soup recipe, or would you experiment with different variations? Let me know how you make your perfect bowl of potato soup.