Chunky potato soup is a hearty dish made with tender potatoes, vegetables like onions and celery, and a creamy broth base. It is often finished with milk or cream to create a rich texture. The potatoes are left in larger pieces, giving the soup its signature “chunky” texture, which contrasts nicely with the smooth, creamy liquid.
Preparing chunky potato soup typically takes around 30-40 minutes. Most of this time is spent simmering the potatoes until they’re tender and the flavors are well combined. You can also customize the timing, adjusting it based on your preferred texture or how much time you have to cook.
Chunky potato soup is a comforting and filling dish that can be made quickly. The combination of potatoes and simple ingredients makes it easy to prepare, and the creamy texture is perfect for a cold day. Whether served with crusty bread or a sprinkle of cheese, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love It Chunky Potato Soup
- Creamy and Comforting: This chunky potato soup offers a rich and creamy texture, perfect for those chilly days when you crave something warm. The soft potatoes blend beautifully with savory ingredients, making it a cozy meal everyone will love.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this potato soup is quick and easy to prepare. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef, you can enjoy this dish without hassle.
- Versatile and Customizable: You can adjust the flavor and texture to your liking. Add cheese, bacon, or herbs to enhance the soup’s taste. It’s a flexible recipe that suits different dietary preferences.
Ingredient Notes for Chunky Potato Soup
- Potatoes: The main ingredient, potatoes add creaminess and texture to the soup. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for their starchy quality that thickens the soup.
- Onion: A savory base for the soup, onions provide essential flavor. Yellow or white onions are commonly used, adding a mild sweetness when sautéed.
- Garlic: Adds a punch of rich, aromatic flavor. Fresh garlic cloves are recommended for the best taste, though garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- Celery Stalks: Celery brings a light, fresh crunch and earthy flavor that balances the richness of the potatoes and broth. It’s a classic ingredient in many soups.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth: This is the liquid base of the soup. Chicken broth gives a more robust flavor, while vegetable broth is a great alternative for vegetarians or vegans.
- Whole Milk: Whole milk creates a creamy consistency, making the soup velvety. It can be substituted with cream for a richer texture or a dairy-free option for a lighter version.
- Butter: Butter adds richness and depth to the soup, enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients. It’s used to sauté the onions and garlic for a savory foundation.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning. Salt enhances all the flavors, while black pepper adds a hint of heat. Adjust to taste.
- Dried Thyme: This herb infuses the soup with a subtle earthy aroma. Thyme complements the potatoes and adds a touch of warmth.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds a creamy, cheesy flavor and can be stirred in for a rich, indulgent finish or sprinkled on top as a garnish.
Chunky Potato Soup Variation
You can easily create variations of chunky potato soup. For a smoky flavor, try adding cooked bacon or ham. If you like a spicy kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add diced green chilies. For a cheesy version, stir in shredded cheddar cheese. Experiment to find your favorite combination!
How to Serve Chunky Potato Soup
To serve chunky potato soup, ladle it into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes. Consider adding crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, or shredded cheese for extra flavor and texture. A warm piece of crusty bread or crackers pairs perfectly with the soup.
Storing & Reheating Chunky Potato Soup
When storing chunky potato soup, allow it to cool before refrigerating. Place it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent odors. Properly stored, it will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months.
Reheating chunky potato soup is easy. Simply transfer it to a pot and heat over medium heat until warmed through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If frozen, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge before reheating. You can also use a microwave, stirring every minute for even heating.
To keep your chunky potato soup creamy, you might need to add a splash of milk or broth while reheating. This helps restore its original consistency. Be sure to check the temperature before serving to ensure it’s piping hot throughout.
FAQs About Chunky Potato Soup
How do you make chunky potato soup creamy?
To make the soup creamy, you can add heavy cream or milk towards the end of cooking. Blending a portion of the potatoes also helps thicken the soup and gives it a smooth, creamy texture.
Can I freeze chunky potato soup?
Yes, you can freeze chunky potato soup, but it may alter the texture of the potatoes. To freeze, let the soup cool, then store it in an airtight container for up to three months.
How long does chunky potato soup last in the fridge?
Chunky potato soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
What can I serve with chunky potato soup?
Chunky potato soup pairs well with bread, like crusty sourdough or a fresh baguette. You can also serve it with a simple salad for a complete meal.
Perfect Chunky Potato Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Cook the potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the pot, stirring to coat with the buttery mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the broth and seasonings: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Add salt, black pepper, and thyme. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
- Mash and stir: Once the potatoes are cooked, use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash part of the soup, leaving some chunks intact. If you like a thicker soup, blend more of it. If you prefer a chunkier texture, mash just a portion of the soup.
- Add milk and simmer: Stir in the milk (or cream for a richer soup) and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Garnish and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and crumbled bacon, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
