As the chill of evening sets in and the world outside becomes a frosty wonderland, nothing warms the heart quite like a bowl of creamy potato soup. Just the thought of it brings back fond memories of cozy family dinners, where laughter mingled with the savory aroma of simmering vegetables. One evening, while rummaging through my kitchen, I discovered a humble bag of Russet potatoes begging to be transformed into something special.
This creamy potato soup, brimming with tender carrots and rich flavors, is delightful yet effortlessly simple, making it the perfect antidote to the fast-food frenzy we often find ourselves trapped in. You won’t believe how a handful of ingredients can come together so beautifully! Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself after a long day, this recipe promises warmth, nostalgia, and the satisfaction of homemade goodness. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this heartwarming dish that’s destined to become a favorite in your home!
Why will you love this Creamy Potato Soup?
Comforting warmth: This creamy potato soup wraps you in deliciousness, making it the ultimate go-to for chilly evenings.
Easy preparation: With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that feels gourmet without the effort.
Rich flavor: The combination of garlic, buttery roux, and fresh parsley enhance the potatoes and carrots, elevating every spoonful.
Family-friendly: Perfect for all ages, this soup satisfies picky eaters, ensuring even the youngest members of your family enjoy homemade goodness.
Versatile delight: Serve it as a main dish or a side, and feel free to customize with your favorite garnishes for that personal touch!
Creamy Potato Soup Ingredients
• Everything you need for creamy goodness!
For the Soup Base
- Russet potatoes – these starchy delights bring creaminess and texture to your soup.
- Diced carrots – they add a pop of color and natural sweetness, enhancing the soup’s flavor.
- Mashed garlic – infuses the soup with rich, aromatic notes that elevate the dish.
- Water – the base for simmering the vegetables, giving a cozy warmth to the soup.
- Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base – a quick flavor boost that turns ordinary into extraordinary.
- Fresh chopped parsley – sprinkle in a touch of freshness and vibrant green to your creamy potato soup.
- Kosher salt – amplifies all the flavors while ensuring your soup tastes just right.
For the Roux
- Butter – creates that luscious, silky mouthfeel that makes the soup comforting.
- All-purpose flour – acts as a thickening agent for a rich and creamy consistency.
- Kosher salt – balances the flavors of the roux, giving your soup a proper seasoning.
- Black pepper – adds a hint of spice and warmth, enhancing the overall flavor.
For the Creamy Finish
- Milk – the star ingredient that turns your soup into a delightful creamy potato soup!
How to Make Creamy Potato Soup
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Combine the diced Russet potatoes, diced carrots, mashed garlic, water, Better Than Bouillon, chopped parsley, and kosher salt in a pot. This forms the flavorful base of your soup.
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Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the vegetables become tender and the aroma fills your kitchen.
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Melt the butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Watch for it to bubble gently, creating a lovely smoky scent that invites you in!
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Stir in the flour, kosher salt, and black pepper to create a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes until it turns a beautiful golden color, ensuring flavor depth.
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Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly. Continue until the sauce thickens—about 5-7 minutes—bringing a rich creaminess to your soup.
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Combine the vegetable mixture with the white sauce, mixing well to ensure every bite is filled with comforting flavor. Let it simmer together for a few minutes before serving.
Optional: Garnish with extra chopped parsley or croutons for added texture!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Creamy Potato Soup
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Choose Potatoes Wisely: Use Russet potatoes for their starchiness which lends a creamy texture, ideal for your creamy potato soup.
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Watch the Roux: Stir the roux constantly to avoid burning. A perfectly golden roux builds flavor for a deeper, more satisfying soup.
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Control Thickness: For a thicker soup, let it simmer longer after combining with the white sauce. If it’s too thick, simply add a splash of milk.
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Fresh Herbs Matter: Always use fresh parsley for garnish—it brightens up the soup and adds a wonderful contrast to the creamy base.
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Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Adding kosher salt and black pepper gradually ensures your creamy potato soup hits that perfect flavor note.
Creamy Potato Soup Variations
Customize this creamy potato soup to make it uniquely yours and explore a world of flavor!
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Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or coconut milk instead of regular milk for a creamy base without dairy. You can still achieve that luscious consistency while enjoying a lighter variation.
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or dill to the vegetable mix for an aromatic twist. The fresh herbs beautifully complement the creamy potato soup, adding depth to every spoonful.
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Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to spice things up. This adds a delightful heat that contrasts pleasantly with the creamy texture.
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Protein Boost: Incorporate cooked bacon, diced ham, or sautéed mushrooms for heartiness. This not only enhances the flavor but also ups the nutritional value for a more filling meal.
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Vegetable Medley: Add peas, corn, or spinach for extra color and nutrients. These veggies bring a fresh pop and additional layers of flavor that will make every bite interesting.
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Thicker Texture: For a creamy potato soup that’s even heartier, blend a portion of the soup and mix it back in. This creates a delightful chunkiness that enhances the overall experience.
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Cheesy Delight: Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese just before serving for a rich, gooey finish. The melting cheese adds a savory depth that takes comfort to the next level.
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Citrus Zest: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness. It’s a small step that makes a big difference!
What to Serve with Creamy Potato Soup?
As you prepare to enjoy a steaming bowl of creamy potato soup, let’s explore delightful accompaniments that elevate your meal to new heights.
- Crusty Bread: The perfect vessel for sopping up every last bit of soup, offering a comforting crunch that complements the creamy texture.
- Garden Salad: A refreshing combination of crisp greens and vibrant vegetables adds a burst of color and flavor, balancing the richness of the soup.
- Sautéed Greens: Simple and nutritious, sautéed spinach or kale adds a mild bitterness that beautifully contrasts with the soup’s creaminess.
Pairing your creamy potato soup with these delightful options not only rounds out the meal but also creates a hearty experience filled with flavors and textures!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Potato Soup
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if it thickens.
Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion as it freezes.
Thawing: To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight, or use the microwave for a quicker option. Reheat well before serving.
Reheating: When reheating from frozen, ensure the soup reaches a temperature of 165°F for safe consumption while maintaining its creamy goodness.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Potato Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can chop the potatoes and carrots up to 24 hours in advance; just place them in a bowl of water to prevent browning. The flavorful vegetable mixture can be simmered and refrigerated for up to 3 days. To finish, simply heat the vegetable mixture in a pot, prepare the roux as instructed, and combine both components for a steaming bowl of soup. This way, you’re not only saving precious time on hectic weeknights, but ensuring your creamy comfort remains just as delicious as if it were made fresh!
Creamy Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best potatoes for this creamy potato soup?
Absolutely! For this creamy potato soup, I recommend using Russet potatoes. Look for ones that are firm and free from dark spots or blemishes. The starchiness of Russets is what gives the soup that beautiful creamy texture, making them the ideal choice.
How do I store leftovers of creamy potato soup?
Very simply,! Store your creamy potato soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency, as it might thicken while stored. Gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I freeze creamy potato soup, and how should I do it?
Absolutely, you can! To freeze your creamy potato soup, let it cool completely. Then, pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top to allow for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the microwave.
What should I do if my roux burns?
Oh no! If your roux burns, it’s best to start over. A burnt roux can leave a bitter taste in your soup. Make sure to stir constantly and cook it on medium heat until it turns a light golden brown. Remember, patience is key to perfecting that flavor!
Is this creamy potato soup safe for pets or people with dairy allergies?
Good question! This creamy potato soup contains dairy ingredients such as milk and butter, making it unsuitable for those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. For a non-dairy alternative, you could use almond milk or coconut cream along with a plant-based butter to keep the richness while accommodating dietary restrictions.
How can I customize my creamy potato soup for different diets?
The more the merrier! You can easily adapt this creamy potato soup for various diets. For a vegetarian option, simply use vegetable broth instead of the Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base. To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch as a thickener. Feel free to add other vegetables or herbs to suit your personal taste!
Warm Up with This Creamy Potato Soup Recipe You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the diced Russet potatoes, diced carrots, mashed garlic, water, Better Than Bouillon, chopped parsley, and kosher salt in a pot.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the vegetables become tender.
- Melt the butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour, kosher salt, and black pepper to create a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes until golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly. Continue until sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
- Combine the vegetable mixture with the white sauce, mixing well. Let it simmer together for a few minutes.