Easy Homemade Potato Soup Recipe

Potato soup is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether it’s a chilly evening or just a day when you’re craving something simple, hearty, and satisfying, a steaming bowl of homemade potato soup is always the answer. It’s filling, creamy, and, best of all, it’s easy to make with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry and fridge. What I love about potato soup is its versatility. You can make it as basic or as elaborate as you like, tweaking the flavors to your preferences.

This easy homemade potato soup recipe is perfect for beginners, seasoned home cooks, or anyone just looking for a foolproof way to enjoy a delicious bowl of soup in no time. So, let’s dive into the ingredients, cooking steps, and even some pro tips that will take your potato soup to the next level.

Easy Homemade Potato Soup Recipe

This potato soup recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require a ton of time or advanced skills. You can whip up a batch in less than an hour, and the flavors meld together perfectly, creating a creamy, savory soup. You’ll have a comforting bowl of goodness that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours-without all the effort.

Ingredients Needed

• 4 large russet potatoes: These potatoes break down beautifully when cooked, giving the soup its signature creamy texture.
• 1 medium onion: For a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic: Because garlic makes everything better, adding a savory kick to the soup.
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth: This is your base liquid, adding flavor and richness to the soup.
• 2 cups milk: Whole milk works best here, providing creaminess without making the soup too thick.
• 4 tablespoons butter: For a rich, smooth texture that gives the soup its velvety finish.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: This melts right into the soup, creating a cheesy, decadent feel.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds a tangy note and enhances the creaminess.
• Salt and pepper to taste: These are essential for balancing and elevating the flavors.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare The Ingredients

   • Peel the potatoes, cut them into bite-sized chunks, and set them aside. This helps them cook evenly and quickly.
   • Chop the onion and mince the garlic.

2. Sauté The Onions And Garlic

   • In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent. This step enhances the sweetness and aroma of the onions, making them the perfect base for the soup.

3. Cook The Potatoes

   • Add the diced potatoes to the pot, followed by the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring everything to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

4. Mash The Potatoes

   • Once the potatoes are soft, you can mash them slightly with a potato masher or a spoon. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend part or all of the soup until you reach your desired consistency.

5. Add The Dairy

   • Pour in the milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Stir well to combine and let the cheese melt into the soup. This will create that rich, creamy texture we all love.

6. Season To Taste

   • Season with salt and pepper, and taste test to adjust the seasoning. You may want to add a little more salt, depending on the broth you’re using.

7. Serve

   • Ladle the soup into bowls, and optionally garnish with additional cheese, crispy bacon bits, or fresh herbs like chives. Serve with a warm loaf of bread or crackers for a complete meal.

Ingredient Insights

• Russet Potatoes: These are the ideal choice for potato soup because they have a high starch content, which means they break down easily when cooked. This results in a naturally creamy texture without needing to add too much cream or flour.
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Using broth as the base instead of just water deepens the flavor of the soup. If you’re using chicken broth, it adds a savory richness. Vegetable broth, on the other hand, gives a more neutral, lighter base-great for vegetarians or if you want the potatoes to shine more.
• Sour Cream: While many potato soup recipes rely on heavy cream for richness, sour cream not only adds that creamy texture but also gives a slight tang that balances out the heaviness of the cheese and potatoes. It’s an often-overlooked ingredient that really elevates the flavor profile of the soup.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcook the potatoes: Potatoes cook quickly, and you don’t want them to become mushy. Once they’re fork-tender, you’re good to go.
• Adjust the texture: If you like your soup on the chunkier side, simply mash the potatoes a bit less. If you prefer a smooth soup, use an immersion blender or regular blender (be sure to let it cool a bit first!).
• Use different cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even smoked Gouda for a unique twist on flavor.
• Garnishes are key: Add some crispy bacon bits, shredded cheese, or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives. These little touches can really make a big difference in both flavor and presentation.

Recipe Variations

• Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Add crumbled bacon, green onions, and extra shredded cheddar on top. You can also stir in some cooked sausage or ham for an added savory punch.
• Vegan Potato Soup: Swap the butter for olive oil, use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of dairy milk, and skip the cheese and sour cream. Use vegetable broth to keep it entirely plant-based.
• Spicy Potato Soup: For a kick, add a diced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper while sautéing the onions and garlic. You can also sprinkle some hot sauce over the top when serving.
• Herb-Infused Potato Soup: Add a sprig or two of thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves during the simmering process. Just be sure to remove them before serving, as they’re not meant to be eaten whole.

Final Words

Potato soup is one of those classic dishes that everyone has their own version of. What makes this particular recipe stand out is its balance of richness and simplicity-it’s satisfying without feeling heavy. And the best part is, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes, whether you want it extra cheesy, loaded with toppings, or even lightened up.

You don’t need a gourmet kitchen to make it either. With a handful of everyday ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from a bowl of comfort that’s perfect for any day of the week.