Mashed potato soup is a comforting dish made by blending mashed potatoes with broth, butter, and milk. This creamy soup has the smooth texture of mashed potatoes and the rich flavor of a hearty soup. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you want something warm and filling. The recipe can be customized with different herbs and spices for added flavor.
Preparing mashed potato soup takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes boiling the potatoes, sautéing the onions and garlic, and blending the ingredients into a creamy consistency. It’s a quick and easy dish that doesn’t require too much time in the kitchen, making it ideal for busy days.
The comforting nature of mashed potato soup makes it a go-to recipe in any season. The creamy texture and rich flavor offer warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. Adjusting the seasoning and adding extra ingredients like cheese or fresh herbs can elevate this simple dish into a family favorite. It’s a versatile recipe that’s easy to tweak based on what’s available in your pantry.
Why You’ll Love Mashed Potato Soup
- Comforting and Creamy Texture: Mashed potato soup offers a rich and velvety texture that’s perfect for cozy meals. The creamy base blends mashed potatoes and broth, making it smooth and satisfying.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is quick and simple, with minimal ingredients. It’s a hassle-free dish that doesn’t require any complicated cooking skills, making it perfect for busy days.
- Customizable Flavors: You can easily adjust the flavor to your liking. Add extra seasonings or toppings like cheese, bacon, or herbs to make it your own and suit everyone’s taste preferences.
Ingredient Notes for Mashed Potato Soup
- Potatoes: The main base of the soup, potatoes bring a creamy and hearty texture. Choose starchy varieties like Russets for the best results. They break down easily when cooked, giving the soup its smooth consistency.
- Onion: Onions add depth and flavor to the soup. Yellow onions are commonly used for their sweet taste when sautéed. They help create a savory foundation for the dish.
- Garlic: Garlic provides a warm, aromatic flavor to the soup. Fresh garlic cloves are recommended for the best taste. When sautéed, garlic adds a delicious, slightly sweet, and savory undertone.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth: This liquid is essential for cooking the potatoes and creating the soup’s base. Chicken broth adds a rich, savory flavor, while vegetable broth is a great choice for a lighter, vegetarian option.
- Milk: Milk makes the soup creamy and smooth. Whole milk is commonly used, but any milk or even cream can be substituted to add richness.
- Butter: Butter adds richness and flavor to the soup. It enhances the creamy texture and brings a bit of indulgence to the dish. It’s best to melt the butter before mixing with the other ingredients.
- Salt & Pepper: Salt and pepper are crucial for seasoning and balancing the flavors of the soup. Adjust these according to your taste preferences to bring out the best in each ingredient.
Helpful Tips and Add Your Touch
Mashed potato soup is a comforting dish that anyone can make with a few simple ingredients. To start, choose starchy potatoes like russets. These potatoes break down easily, making the soup creamy and thick. Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme enhances the taste.
When cooking your potatoes, be sure to cut them into even pieces. This helps them cook faster and more evenly. A faster cook time will keep your potatoes from becoming too mushy. Once the potatoes are soft, blend them until smooth for a creamy texture.
For an extra rich flavor, consider adding cream or milk. This will make your mashed potato soup creamy and velvety. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or low-fat milk. The choice is yours, and it’s easy to adjust the recipe to suit your taste.
Mashed Potato Soup Variation
Mashed potato soup is highly adaptable to various tastes. For a richer flavor, try adding crumbled bacon, sour cream, or even sautéed mushrooms. You can also mix in vegetables like carrots or celery to add texture. Spice it up by using different seasonings like paprika, thyme, or cayenne pepper.
If you prefer a thicker soup, add less broth or more mashed potatoes. For a lighter version, use low-fat milk or substitute with almond or oat milk. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative with your additions!
How to Serve Mashed Potato Soup
Serve mashed potato soup with a side of crusty bread or crackers to balance the creaminess. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese on top for extra flavor and a bit of indulgence.
To elevate the presentation, garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives. This adds color and a fresh taste that contrasts with the rich, creamy soup. You can even drizzle some olive oil for a touch of richness.
Storage Options
Mashed potato soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding more milk if needed for desired consistency.
For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool the soup completely before freezing. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as usual.
FAQs About Mashed Potato Soup
How do I make mashed potato soup?
To make mashed potato soup, cook potatoes until tender, then blend them with broth and seasonings. You can also add milk or cream for a smooth texture.
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for soup?
Yes, leftover mashed potatoes are perfect for making mashed potato soup. Simply add them to a pot with broth, seasonings, and any extras you like to create a quick and easy soup.
Is mashed potato soup healthy?
Mashed potato soup can be healthy depending on the ingredients you use. Opting for low-fat milk and limiting heavy cream or cheese can keep the soup lighter while still delicious.
Can I freeze mashed potato soup?
Yes, you can freeze mashed potato soup, but keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after thawing. Reheat gently and add a little milk if it needs thinning.
Leftlover Mashed Potato Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the Potatoes: In a large pot, add the chopped potatoes and cover them with water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 10-15 minutes or until they are fork-tender.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: While the potatoes are cooking, melt butter in another large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine Potatoes and Broth: Once the potatoes are tender, drain the water and add them to the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Mash the Potatoes: Using a potato masher, mash the potatoes directly in the pot. For a smoother consistency, you can also use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a regular blender. Mash until the soup reaches your desired consistency.
- Add Milk and Seasonings: Stir in the milk (or heavy cream for richness), and season with salt and pepper. Bring the soup back to a gentle simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If you’re using cheese or sour cream, stir them in at this point. Let the cheese melt and the soup become extra creamy.
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon crumbles and chopped chives for added texture and flavor. Serve hot!
