Potato soup is the ultimate comfort food, warm, creamy, and satisfying. But the thought of making it from scratch can sometimes feel daunting. This recipe strips away the complexity, providing a simple, delicious potato soup that's perfect for a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend lunch. We'll cover everything from ingredient choices to helpful tips and variations, ensuring your potato soup journey is as smooth as the finished product.
What are the ingredients for easy potato soup?
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You likely already have most of the ingredients in your pantry! We'll focus on fresh, simple flavors that let the potatoes shine. Here's what you'll need:
- Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, but Yukon Golds also work wonderfully. Aim for about 2 pounds.
- Onion: One medium yellow onion provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Garlic: 2-3 cloves of garlic add a pungent aroma and enhance the overall taste.
- Broth: Chicken broth or vegetable broth, whichever aligns with your dietary preference. About 6 cups.
- Milk or Cream: A splash of milk or cream at the end adds richness and creaminess. Heavy cream offers the richest texture, but half-and-half or even whole milk work just as well.
- Seasoning: Salt, pepper, and perhaps a pinch of dried thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor.
How long does it take to make easy potato soup?
This recipe is designed for speed and efficiency. From start to finish, you can expect to have a delicious bowl of potato soup ready in about 30-40 minutes. The actual cooking time will depend on the type of potato you use and how tender you prefer your potatoes.
What are some variations for easy potato soup?
While this recipe focuses on simplicity, there's plenty of room for customization to match your taste:
- Cheesy Potato Soup: Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Bacon Potato Soup: Crumble cooked bacon over the top for a smoky, savory addition.
- Creamy Potato Soup with Ham: Add diced cooked ham along with the potatoes for a hearty and flavorful soup.
- Spicy Potato Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a little kick.
- Loaded Potato Soup: Top with your favorite loaded potato toppings such as chives, bacon bits, cheese, and sour cream.
Can I make potato soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! This recipe is easily adaptable for a slow cooker. Sauté the onion and garlic as directed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir in milk or cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
How do I thicken potato soup?
If your soup is thinner than you prefer, you can thicken it in a few ways:
- Puree a portion: Use an immersion blender to puree about one-third of the soup. This will create a creamier texture without adding any extra ingredients.
- Cornstarch slurry: Mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this slurry into the soup and cook for a few minutes, or until thickened.
- Potato starch: Similar to cornstarch, potato starch can be used to thicken the soup. Follow the same instructions as using cornstarch.
How to store leftover potato soup?
Leftover potato soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
This simple potato soup recipe is a fantastic starting point for culinary creativity. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to create your own signature bowl of comforting goodness. Enjoy!
