Potato soup is a comforting, hearty dish made primarily from potatoes, which are the key ingredient, and often includes other vegetables, seasonings, and liquid for added flavor and texture. It can be made in various styles, ranging from creamy to chunky, and can be served hot as a main dish or side. The soup typically includes ingredients like onions, garlic, and stock or broth (chicken or vegetable). Some variations also incorporate milk, cream, cheese, bacon, or herbs for extra richness.
There are many ways to prepare potato soup:
- Creamy potato soup: Made by adding cream or milk to create a smooth, velvety texture.
- Chunky potato soup: Often made with cubed potatoes that remain whole or partially intact after cooking, giving the soup a heartier texture.
- Old-fashioned potato soup: A simpler version with fewer ingredients, focusing on the natural flavor of potatoes and a broth base.
It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with various ingredients like vegetables (carrots, celery), protein (bacon, chicken), or spices (thyme, pepper) to suit personal tastes. Potato soup is often enjoyed during colder months due to its warming, filling nature.
Why Potato Soup is a Staple Comfort Food
Potato soup has earned its place as a staple comfort food due to its rich flavors, creamy texture, and heartwarming qualities. Its core ingredient, the humble potato, provides a hearty and satisfying base that can be adapted to suit various tastes. The soup’s simplicity allows for endless customization, from adding crispy bacon for a savory twist to incorporating fresh herbs for a refreshing touch.
Additionally, potato soup’s ability to be made in large batches makes it a convenient option for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. Ultimately, its combination of nostalgia and versatility makes potato soup a beloved dish across households worldwide.
How to Cook Potato Soup Without Cream
You don’t need cream to enjoy a luxuriously creamy potato soup. Here’s how to make a delicious version without it:
Ingredients
- 6 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk or other plant-based milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives), for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Cook the Potatoes
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic.
- Pour the vegetable broth over the potatoes, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Blend the Soup
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a standard blender in batches and blend until smooth.
- Add Plant-Based Milk
- Stir in the almond milk and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat the soup gently, without boiling, until it’s warmed through.
- Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs.
- Enjoy a comforting bowl of creamy potato soup without using cream!
The Perfect 4-Ingredient Potato Soup Recipe
Short on time? This 4-ingredient potato soup recipe will become your go-to for quick and easy meals.
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 1 cup milk (or plant-based alternative)
Instructions:
- Boil the diced potatoes in broth until soft (approximately 15 minutes).
- Sauté the onion in a tablespoon of oil until translucent, then add it to the pot.
- Blend portions of the cooked potatoes to thicken the soup, or simply mash them.
- Stir in milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
This minimalist approach highlights the simple, comforting flavors of potatoes while keeping prep and cleanup minimal.
Classic Potato Soup Recipe for Beginners
If you’re new to cooking, potato soup is a great dish to start with. Follow this beginner-friendly recipe for a foolproof success, every time.
Ingredients:
- 5 medium potatoes
- 1 onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
Directions:
- Sauté garlic and onion in a large pot.
- Add peeled, diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil.
- Cook until potatoes are soft (20 minutes).
- Blend half the soup for a creamy texture and leave some chunks for contrast.
- Stir in cream (if using), season, and top with shredded cheese or green onions.
This recipe serves as the base for other variations, like baked potato soup or those with added protein, such as bacon or ha
How to Cook Potato Soup with Milk for a Creamy Texture
For those who prefer a creamy texture without the use of heavy cream, using milk is an excellent option. Follow these steps to make a deliciously smooth potato soup.
Ingredients
- 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, chopped chives, or crispy bacon bits
Instructions
- Sauté the Onions
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Cook the Potatoes
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot with the onions.
- Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to simmer and cook until potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Blend the Soup
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or transfer to a blender in batches.
- Be cautious of hot liquid when blending.
- Add Milk for Creaminess
- Stir in the whole milk and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat gently, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Do not boil to prevent curdling.
- Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Top with your choice of shredded cheese, chopped chives, or crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and texture.
Enjoy a rich and creamy potato soup made effortlessly with milk!
Easy Potato Soup Recipe (Stovetop)
Got a busy schedule? This straightforward stovetop potato soup recipe delivers cozy vibes in under 30 minutes.
What you’ll need:
- Potatoes
- Milk
- Broth
- Butter
- Flour (for roux)
Directions:
- Start by making a quick roux with butter and flour. Slowly whisk in milk to create a creamy base.
- Add diced potatoes and broth, ensuring the potatoes are fully submerged.
- Simmer until soft, then season and serve.
Pair it with bread rolls for a satisfying, no-fuss dinner.
Old-Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe
Transport yourself back to the comfort of your grandmother’s kitchen with this old-fashioned potato soup recipe. It’s rich, hearty, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 5 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk or cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables
- Chop the potatoes, onion, celery, and garlic.
- Sauté the Onions and Celery
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions, celery, and garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent and celery is softened.
- Add Potatoes and Broth
- Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Blend Some of the Soup
- Optionally, use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup to your desired consistency, leaving some potato chunks for texture.
- Add Milk or Cream
- Stir in the milk or cream, and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat gently until the soup is warmed through, without boiling.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives for added flavor.
- Enjoy the warming and nostalgic flavors of this old-fashioned potato soup.
The Best Potatoes for Potato Soup
Not all potatoes are created equal. Here’s a quick guide to choosing the right one:
- Russet Potatoes: Ideal for creamy soups; their high starch content breaks down easily.
- Yukon Gold: Perfect for a balance between creaminess and chunkiness.
- Red Potatoes: Hold their shape best, great for hearty soups with visible potato chunks.
Mixing types can also create dynamic textures.
Tips for Thickening Potato Soup Without Cream
Use a Potato Masher or Fork
- After cooking, use a masher or fork to mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot. This helps to thicken the soup naturally.
- Be sure to leave some chunks for texture.
Incorporate More Starch
- Stir in instant potato flakes a little at a time until you reach the desired thickness.
- Alternatively, add a slurry made from cornstarch and cold water, gradually blending it into the soup.
Blend a Portion of the Soup
- Use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup, which thickens the overall consistency while keeping some pieces intact for a hearty feel.
- This can also be done by transferring a portion of the soup to a traditional blender.
Use a Roux
- Create a roux using equal parts butter and flour cooked together, then add it to the soup for a creamy texture without cream.
- Cook the roux until light brown before incorporating it into the soup for an enhanced flavor profile.
Add Other Vegetables
- Add cooked carrots or parsnips, which can also be mashed or blended to contribute to thickness.
- These vegetables not only thicken the soup but also add nutritional value and a hint of sweetness.
Health Benefits of Potato Soup
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Potato soup is a good source of essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, potassium, and B-vitamins, which support overall health and strengthen the immune system.
- Promotes Digestive Health
The fiber content in potatoes, especially when the skins are included in the soup, helps promote healthy digestion, preventing issues like constipation and maintaining gut health.
- Offers Antioxidant Properties
Potatoes contain antioxidants like flavonoids, carotenoids, and phenolic acids, which help combat free radicals in the body and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Supports Weight Management
When prepared with low-fat milk or without heavy cream, potato soup can be a filling meal option that’s low in calories, helping with weight management by reducing overall calorie intake.
- Provides Energy Boost
The carbohydrates in potatoes are a great source of sustained energy, making potato soup an ideal meal for an energy boost throughout the day, especially when paired with proteins and healthy fats.
Potato Soup Calorie Table
The calorie content of potato soup can vary significantly based on the ingredients and preparation methods. Below is a basic calorie table for commonly used ingredients in a typical potato soup recipe:
| Ingredient | Serving Size | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Potatoes | 1 cup | 110 |
| Whole Milk | 1 cup | 150 |
| Chicken Broth | 1 cup | 15 |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon | 100 |
| Flour | 2 tablespoons | 55 |
| Onion | 1 medium | 45 |
| Celery | 1 stalk | 6 |
| Garlic | 1 clove | 5 |
| Bacon Bits | 1 tablespoon | 30 |
| Cheddar Cheese | 1 ounce | 113 |
Note: These calorie counts are approximate and can vary depending on specific brands and preparations. Adjust quantities and ingredients based on dietary needs and preferences for a healthier or richer soup version.
How to Add Chicken Broth to Potato Soup
Choosing the Right Chicken Broth
- Quality Matters: Use high-quality, low-sodium chicken broth for the best flavor. This allows you to control the seasoning more precisely.
- Homemade vs Store-Bought: For a richer taste, consider using homemade chicken broth, but if you’re short on time, store-bought options are convenient and effective.
Incorporating Chicken Broth
- Initial Addition: Add chicken broth once your vegetables, like potatoes and onions, are sautéed. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Correct Amount: Ensure that the broth fully covers the potatoes and other ingredients to enable even cooking and absorb flavor.
- Simmering: Once added, bring the soup to a gentle boil and then reduce to a simmer. This helps break down the potatoes, blending the broth into the soup seamlessly.
Enhancing Flavor with Chicken Broth
- Season as You Go: Regularly taste the soup and adjust the seasoning. Chicken broth can subtly intensify flavors, so balance with salt and pepper as needed.
- Herbs and Spices: Consider adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves during simmering. These can enhance the broth’s complexity.
By following these steps, chicken broth will elevate your potato soup with rich, savory depth, turning a simple dish into something extraordinary.
Flavor Boosters and Serving Ideas
Enhance your potato soup with fun mix-ins and toppings:
- Herbs and Spices: Thyme, parsley, chives, or rosemary can elevate the dish.
- Toppings: Shredded cheddar, sour cream, cooked bacon bits, green onions, or croutons.
- Sides: Serve with fresh bread, grilled cheese, or a crisp side salad.
The best thing about potato soup? You can customize endlessly!
Create Comfort in Every Bowl
Potato soup is proof that the simplest ingredients often make the most satisfying meals. Whether you’re after a nostalgic family recipe, quick weeknight meal, or a creative take on the classic, potato soup offers endless possibilities.
Want even more inspiration? Bookmark this page and experiment with the various methods and recipes. Comfort food has never been so easy—or delicious.
Conclusion
In the world of comfort food, potato soup stands out as a timeless favorite that effortlessly combines simplicity with warmth. Whether you prefer a creamy blend or a chunky texture, this versatile dish allows you to tailor every aspect to fit your taste. With the guidance provided here—from choosing the right potatoes to creating flavor-rich enhancements—you can craft a bowl of potato soup that satisfies both hearty appetites and culinary creativity.
So grab your ingredients, embrace the cozy aroma that fills your kitchen, and enjoy the comforting embrace of a classic homemade potato soup. Indulge in the joy it brings and share this endearing culinary tradition with loved ones.
FAQs
Can I make potato soup vegan?
Yes, potato soup can be easily made vegan by substituting dairy milk with plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk, and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also opt for olive oil instead of butter.
How can I store leftover potato soup?
Store leftover potato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a little extra broth or water if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
Can potato soup be frozen?
Yes, potato soup can be frozen, although the texture may change slightly upon thawing due to the potatoes. Transfer the soup to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion, and store it for up to 3 months. Reheat slowly and consider blending after thawing if needed to improve texture.
What can I do if my soup is too thick?
If your soup turns out too thick, simply add more broth or milk a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency. Be sure to reheat thoroughly and adjust seasoning if necessary.
What potatoes work best for a creamy potato soup?
Russet potatoes are best for a creamy soup due to their high starch content, which breaks down easily. However, Yukon Gold potatoes can also be used for a creamier consistency with more flavor.
