Creamy Potato Soup Recipe

When the weather starts to cool down, there’s nothing better than a bowl of warm, creamy potato soup to bring comfort to your day. This recipe combines hearty vegetables with a rich white sauce, creating a velvety texture that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for families, busy professionals, or anyone who loves a good homemade soup, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Who Will Love This Recipe?

This creamy potato soup is for everyone who enjoys a hearty, flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping for the week, or just craving something comforting after a long day, this recipe delivers. The combination of potatoes, carrots, and a rich, creamy sauce is perfect for those who appreciate a simple yet satisfying dish.

Ingredients for Creamy Potato Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting bowl of creamy potato soup:

For the Vegetables:

• 4 cups diced Russet potatoes (about 2 large potatoes, approximately 2 pounds)
• 1 cup diced carrots (about 2 large carrots)
• 1 clove garlic, mashed and diced
• 3 cups water
• 1 tablespoon Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base (chicken or turkey flavor)
• 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

For the White Sauce:

• 1/2 cup butter (one stick)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups milk (whole milk is best)

Optional Garnishes:

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped green onions
• Additional chopped parsley

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

To prepare this delicious potato soup, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:

• Stock Pot or 3-Quart Pot: For boiling the vegetables.
• 2-Quart Pot: For making the white sauce (béchamel).
• Potato Masher or Immersion Blender: To achieve your desired soup texture.
• Whisk: For mixing the white sauce.
• Spatula: To scrape every last bit of the sauce into the soup.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping vegetables and garnishes.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Let’s walk through the process of making this creamy potato soup, step by step.

1. Boil the Vegetables

Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small cubes, about 1/2 inch in size. Place the diced potatoes into your stock pot. If you have slightly more or less than 4 cups, don’t worry—it will still turn out great. Next, peel and dice the carrots to match the size of the potatoes and add them to the pot.

Smash and mince the garlic before adding it to the pot with the vegetables. Pour in 3 cups of water, just enough to barely cover the veggies. Add 1 tablespoon of Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base, and stir in the fresh or dried parsley along with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium to maintain a steady simmer. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender enough to easily smash with a fork.

Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat and use a potato masher to mash the vegetables to your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunkier soup, mash lightly; for a smoother texture, continue mashing or use an immersion blender.

2. Make the White Sauce (Béchamel)

While the vegetables are simmering, it’s time to prepare the white sauce. In a separate 2-quart pot, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour and whisk them together to form a smooth paste, known as a roux. Season the roux with 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.

Gradually add the milk, one cup at a time, whisking continuously to ensure it blends smoothly with the roux. This process should take a few minutes, so be patient to avoid any lumps. Once all the milk is incorporated, continue to stir the mixture over medium heat until it comes to a boil. Let it boil for 1 minute to thicken, then remove from heat.

3. Combine Everything for the Perfect Texture

Now that your white sauce is ready, pour it into the pot with the mashed vegetables. Use a spatula to scrape every bit of the sauce into the soup. Stir the mixture together until the soup reaches a creamy, smooth consistency. If you find the soup too thick, you can add a little more milk or water to achieve your preferred texture.

Tips for Making the Best Creamy Potato Soup

Here are a few tips to ensure your creamy potato soup turns out perfect every time:

• Texture Control: For a chunkier soup, lightly mash the vegetables. For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender or mash more thoroughly.
• Flavor Enhancements: Feel free to add other seasonings like thyme, rosemary, or a dash of nutmeg to complement the flavors.
• Customization: Swap out the carrots for celery or add in some cooked bacon bits (if not vegetarian) for extra flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Be careful not to overcook the potatoes and carrots. They should be tender but not mushy.
• Rushing the White Sauce: Adding the milk too quickly can lead to a lumpy sauce. Take your time to whisk in the milk gradually.

Serving and Presentation Tips

For a visually appealing presentation, garnish your creamy potato soup with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve the soup in warm bowls to keep it hot, and consider pairing it with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Leftover Potato Soup

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This soup doesn’t freeze well because the potatoes tend to absorb moisture, causing the white sauce to separate and become grainy. It’s best to enjoy it fresh or within a few days of making it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use different vegetables?
Yes, you can customize the soup by adding or substituting vegetables like celery, corn, or peas. Just be mindful of the cooking times for each vegetable.

How can I thicken the soup without flour?
If you prefer a gluten-free version, you can thicken the soup with cornstarch or potato starch. Simply mix a few tablespoons of starch with cold water and stir it into the soup towards the end of cooking.

What’s the best way to reheat the soup?
To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat it in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Conclusion

This creamy potato soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights at home or feeding a crowd. It’s easy to make, loaded with flavor, and sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family. If you loved this soup, subscribe to our blog for more delicious and comforting recipes!

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