Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)

This Potato Soup Recipe (Easy) is your go-to comfort food. It’s creamy, thick, and rich, perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients and about 30 minutes of your time, you can whip up a delicious soup that warms the heart. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This potato soup takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal weeknight meal.
• Creamy Delight: The combination of potatoes and a homemade white sauce creates a luxuriously creamy texture that is hard to resist.
• Customizable Flavor: You can easily adjust the seasoning or add different toppings like cheese and herbs to suit your taste.
• Budget-Friendly: With simple ingredients, this soup is both affordable and satisfying, making it perfect for families.
• Comforting and Filling: It’s hearty enough to serve as a main course, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Easy Potato Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools will streamline your cooking process and help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stock pot or 3-quart pot
• Mixing bowl
• Potato masher or immersion blender
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stock pot or 3-quart pot: A larger pot is essential for boiling the potatoes and carrots evenly while allowing space for the mixture to simmer.
• Potato masher or immersion blender: These tools help create the desired texture in your soup, whether you prefer it chunky or smooth.
• Whisk: A whisk ensures that your white sauce combines smoothly without lumps when adding milk.

Ingredients

This Easy Potato Soup recipe features simple ingredients that come together beautifully:

• 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 (chicken or turkey flavor is great)
• 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 Vegetables

Begin by preparing the vegetables:
1. Peel the potatoes and dice them into small pieces, about half an inch thick. Place them in a stock pot.
2. Peel the carrots and dice them similarly. Add them to the pot with the potatoes.
3. Smash and mince one clove of garlic, then add it to the pot.

Step 2: Add Water and Seasonings

Next, incorporate water and seasonings:
1. Pour in three cups of water until it just barely covers the vegetables.
2. Add one heaping tablespoon of Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base for flavor.
3. Chop about one-quarter cup fresh parsley (or use one tablespoon dried) and add it to the mix.
4. Sprinkle in one teaspoon of kosher salt.

Step 3: Simmer Until Tender

Now it’s time to cook:
1. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
2. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium for a steady simmer. Vent the lid slightly so steam can escape.
3. Let it simmer for approximately twenty minutes until the vegetables are very tender.

Step 4: Mash the Mixture

After simmering:
1. Use a potato masher to mash the mixture to your desired consistency—chunky or smooth.

Step 5: Make the White Sauce (Béchamel)

While mashing:
1. In another pot, melt half a cup of butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in half a cup of flour with a whisk until you form a paste.
3. Season with half a teaspoon each of kosher salt and black pepper; cook for one to three minutes while stirring constantly.

Step 6: Incorporate Milk Gradually

Now add milk:
1. Slowly pour in four cups of milk, adding one cup at a time while whisking continuously until fully incorporated.

Step 7: Combine Everything Together

Finish up:
1. Once boiling, stir often for about one minute then remove from heat.
2. Pour this white sauce into your potato mixture and stir well.

Step 8: Serve Your Delicious Soup

Finally:
1. Serve warm with optional garnishes like extra chopped parsley, shredded cheddar cheese, and green onions on top.

Enjoy this comforting bowl of Easy Potato Soup!

How to Serve Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)

Serving this Easy Potato Soup recipe can elevate your meal experience. Whether you prefer a classic approach or something a bit more creative, these suggestions will enhance the flavor and presentation.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Chives – Finely chopped chives bring a mild onion flavor that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the soup.

With Cheese

• Shredded Cheddar – A generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese melts into the warm soup, adding rich flavor and creaminess.
• Crumbled Feta – For a tangy twist, try crumbled feta cheese, which complements the potatoes nicely.

With Protein

• Grilled Chicken – Sliced grilled chicken on top makes for a hearty addition, turning your soup into a filling meal.
• Bacon Bits – Crispy bacon bits add crunch and smokiness, enhancing the overall taste.

With Crunchy Toppings

• Croutons – Homemade or store-bought croutons provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the smooth texture of the soup.
• Toasted Nuts – Chopped toasted walnuts or pecans bring added texture and nuttiness.

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How to Perfect Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)

To achieve the best results with this Easy Potato Soup recipe, follow these helpful tips.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients – Fresh russet potatoes and whole milk make a significant difference in taste.
• Adjust Consistency – If you prefer a thinner soup, add more milk gradually until you reach your desired thickness.
• Season Gradually – Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for optimal flavor.
• Blend for Smoothness – For an ultra-smooth texture, blend thoroughly before serving or use an immersion blender after cooking.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the soup to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)

Pairing side dishes with this Easy Potato Soup recipe can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread – A classic side that’s perfect for dipping into creamy soups. Make it buttery and toast it until golden brown.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds freshness and crunch to balance out the richness of the soup.
3. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – This childhood favorite is always a hit; try different cheeses for variety!
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil provide additional nutrients and flavor without being too heavy.
5. Stuffed Peppers – These can be made ahead and served alongside for a hearty addition that complements the soup’s flavors.
6. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins pair perfectly with potato soup, offering a delightful contrast in texture and taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Potato Soup Recipe (Easy) from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the Wrong Potatoes – Choosing starchy potatoes like Russets is key. Other types may not break down properly, affecting the soup’s creaminess.
• Overcooking the Vegetables – Cooking potatoes and carrots too long can make them mushy. Aim for tender but firm veggies for a better texture.
• Skipping the White Sauce – The béchamel adds richness. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for that creamy consistency everyone loves.
• Not Seasoning Enough – Insufficient seasoning can lead to bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust with salt and pepper accordingly.
• Dumping All Milk at Once – Adding milk gradually helps prevent lumps in the sauce. Take your time for a smooth finish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 5 days for best flavor.

Freezing Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)

• This soup does not freeze well due to potato texture changes.
• It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) on medium power, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm in a pot over medium heat, stirring often until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delicious soup.

Can I customize the Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)?

Yes! Feel free to add ingredients like bacon, corn, or cheese for extra flavor.

What type of milk is best for this potato soup?

Whole milk gives the creamiest texture, but you can use lower-fat options if preferred.

How long does it take to prepare this Potato Soup Recipe (Easy)?

The total time is about 30 minutes – perfect for a quick weeknight meal!

What can I serve with potato soup?

Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Potato Soup recipe is not only creamy and fulfilling but also offers room for customization based on your tastes. Whether you enjoy it plain or dressed up with toppings like cheese and green onions, it’s sure to warm your heart. Try making it today!