Easy Potato Soup Recipe: There’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of homemade potato soup!
This easy potato soup recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. It’s creamy, flavorful, and made with simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.
Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef, this guide will walk you through every step to make the best potato soup from scratch.
Ingredients Needed for Potato Soup
To make a delicious potato soup, you’ll need:
Essential Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes (russet or Yukon gold)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (or heavy cream)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor:
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Parmesan, or gouda)
- ½ cup crispy bacon bits
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Substitutes for Dietary Preferences:
- Use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version
- Swap butter for olive oil to make it vegan
- Try sweet potatoes for a twist on the classic flavor
Tools and Equipment Required
Before starting, gather the following tools:
- A large pot or Dutch oven
- A sharp knife and cutting board
- A potato masher or immersion blender
- A wooden spoon for stirring
- Ladle for serving
Now that we have everything ready, let’s start cooking!
How to Make Easy Potato Soup – Step by Step Guide
Step 1 – Preparing the Ingredients
Start by washing and peeling your potatoes. Peeling helps create a smoother texture, but if you prefer a rustic feel, you can leave the skin on. Dice the potatoes into small, even cubes so they cook faster.
Next, finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. This will ensure they blend well into the soup. If using additional ingredients like carrots or celery, chop them into similar-sized pieces.
Step 2 – Cooking the Potatoes
Place a large pot over medium heat and add butter. Once melted, sauté the onions and garlic for about 3 minutes until they become translucent.
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and pour in the broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Want an extra flavor boost? Try using a mix of chicken and vegetable broth instead of water.
Step 3 – Making the Soup Base
Now it’s time to turn those potatoes into a rich, creamy soup! Lower the heat and slowly stir in the milk or heavy cream. Add salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you like. If you prefer a slightly thicker soup, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the soup.
Step 4 – Blending and Thickening the Soup
At this stage, you can decide whether you want a smooth, creamy soup or a chunkier texture. If you prefer a smooth soup, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, you can transfer batches of the soup to a blender, but be careful when blending hot liquids—leave some space for steam to escape.
For a chunkier consistency, simply use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes while leaving others whole. This will give your soup a thicker, heartier texture without needing to blend everything completely.
If the soup is too thin, you can thicken it further by adding:
- A cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
- A roux (1 tablespoon butter mixed with 1 tablespoon flour, cooked separately and stirred in)
- Extra mashed potatoes for a natural thickening effect
Step 5 – Adding Extra Ingredients for Flavor
Now comes the fun part—boosting the flavor! Stir in shredded cheese until it melts into the soup, creating a rich, cheesy texture. If you love smoky flavors, add cooked, crumbled bacon or a dash of smoked paprika.
Fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or chives can also enhance the soup’s taste. If you want a hint of spice, a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes will do the trick.
Taste the soup at this point and adjust seasoning as needed. If it needs more depth, a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice can balance the flavors beautifully.
Step 6 – Serving and Presentation Tips
Potato soup is best served hot and garnished with delicious toppings. Here are some great ideas to elevate your presentation:
- Cheese and Bacon – Sprinkle shredded cheese and crispy bacon bits on top.
- Fresh Herbs – Chopped parsley, chives, or green onions add a pop of color.
- Crunchy Toppings – Croutons, crispy fried onions, or crushed crackers give texture.
- Drizzle of Cream – A swirl of heavy cream makes the soup look extra creamy.
Pair your soup with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal. If you’re serving guests, consider serving the soup in bread bowls for a restaurant-quality touch!
Step 7 – Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them properly to maintain the soup’s flavor and texture.
- Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, place the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags. It can last up to 3 months. However, if the soup contains dairy, it may separate when thawed—simply reheat and stir well.
- Reheating: Warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen the consistency.
Variations of Potato Soup
Want to switch things up? Here are some exciting potato soup variations:
- Loaded Baked Potato Soup – Add sour cream, shredded cheddar, and crispy bacon for a baked potato-inspired flavor.
- Vegan and Dairy-Free Potato Soup – Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of dairy and replace butter with olive oil.
- Spicy Potato Soup – Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Chunky Vegetable Potato Soup – Mix in carrots, celery, and bell peppers for added nutrients and texture.
Health Benefits of Potato Soup
Potato soup isn’t just delicious—it also has some health benefits:
- Rich in Fiber – Potatoes contain fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you full.
- Great Source of Vitamins – Potatoes provide vitamin C and B6, essential for immune health and energy.
- Customizable for a Healthier Option – Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt, use low-fat cheese, or add protein-rich ingredients like beans or chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make the best potato soup, watch out for these common mistakes:
- Overcooking or Undercooking Potatoes – Cook until fork-tender but not mushy.
- Making the Soup Too Thin or Too Thick – Adjust thickness with cornstarch, flour, or extra broth as needed.
- Skipping the Seasoning – Potatoes absorb a lot of flavors, so don’t forget salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Not Blending Properly – Blend in batches if using a blender, and always leave room for steam to escape.
- Adding Dairy Too Quickly – Stir in milk or cream slowly to prevent curdling.
FAQs about Easy Potato Soup Recipe
What kind of potatoes are best for potato soup?
For a creamy and comforting potato soup, russet potatoes are your go-to. They break down nicely and thicken the soup beautifully. However, if you prefer a chunkier texture, waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds hold their shape well during cooking.
Do I need to peel the potatoes for this soup?
Peeling is optional based on your texture preference. Unpeeled potatoes provide a rustic feel and additional nutrients, while peeled potatoes contribute to a smoother soup.
Can I make this potato soup vegan?
Absolutely! Swap the regular milk for a plant-based alternative like almond or coconut milk. Use oil or vegan butter for sautéing, and skip any dairy-based toppings.
What are some recommended toppings for potato soup?
Classic toppings include shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, or chives. For a healthier twist, try Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds.
How can I thicken my potato soup?
If your soup is too thin, mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water to achieve your desired consistency.
Is this potato soup recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes well! Just cool the soup completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
How long does it take to make this soup?
This easy potato soup can be ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick and hearty weeknight dinner.
There you have it—a foolproof, step-by-step guide to making the perfect potato soup! Whether you like it creamy, chunky, or with extra toppings, this recipe is guaranteed to be a family favorite.
