Introduction
Transform humble potatoes into a creamy, dreamy bowl of comfort with this super-easy homemade potato soup recipe! It’s the perfect weeknight meal, packed with flavor and ready in under an hour. Get ready to impress your family with this simple yet satisfying dish – it’s guaranteed to become a new favorite!
Why This Works
This recipe works because it’s incredibly forgiving, uses pantry staples, and delivers a rich, creamy texture without any heavy cream! The simple seasonings allow the natural potato flavor to shine, making it a delicious and satisfying meal. Plus, it’s easily adaptable to your taste preferences – more on that later!
Key Ingredients
🥔 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
🧅 1 large onion, chopped
🧄 4 cloves garlic, minced
🥣 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
🥛 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended for extra creaminess)
🧈 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
🌿 1 teaspoon dried thyme
🌿 ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
2️⃣ Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3️⃣ Add the cubed potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender.
4️⃣ Once the potatoes are tender, carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender). Add the milk and blend until completely smooth and creamy. Note: If using a regular blender, work in batches and vent the lid to prevent pressure buildup.
5️⃣ Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the thyme and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6️⃣ Heat through for a few minutes, then serve hot. Garnish with fresh herbs (like chives or parsley) if desired.
Handy Tips
- Use a potato masher for a chunkier soup if you prefer!
- For extra flavor, sauté the onions and garlic in a little bacon fat instead of butter.
- Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking.
Heat Control
Medium heat is key for cooking the onions and garlic without burning them. Simmering the potatoes ensures they cook through evenly and become tender without falling apart. When reheating, use low heat to avoid scorching the soup.
Crunch Factor
While this soup is naturally creamy, you can add a bit of crunch by topping it with crispy fried onions, bacon bits, or even some toasted croutons.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For a super-smooth soup, strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve after blending.
- Add a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche right before serving for an extra luxurious touch.
- Roast the potatoes before adding them to the soup for a deeper, richer flavor.
Storage Tips
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.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This soup makes a wonderful gift! Package it in a pretty jar or thermos, along with a crusty bread roll for dipping. Add a festive ribbon for an extra touch.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Potato Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
🌟 Cheesy Potato Soup: Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese or Gruyère cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
🌟 Bacon and Potato Soup: Add 4 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking.
🌟 Leek and Potato Soup: Replace the onion with 2 leeks, thinly sliced and sautéed until softened.
Troubleshooting
- Soup is too thick: Add a little more broth or milk to thin it out.
- Soup is too thin: Simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Potatoes are not cooked through: Continue simmering until the potatoes are tender.
FAQ
- Can I use other types of potatoes? Yes, you can use other starchy potatoes like Yukon Golds or red potatoes.
- Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.
- Can I freeze this soup? Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before freezing in airtight containers.
- How many servings does this recipe make? This recipe makes approximately 6-8 servings.
Conclusion
This Creamy Homemade Potato Soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! We hope you enjoy this comforting and delicious recipe. Share your creations with us on Ratemyrecipes.com – we can’t wait to see your photos! Happy cooking!