Easy Mashed Potato Soup Recipe (Rich And Savory)

Savor the simple pleasures of comfort food with our delicious Mashed Potato Soup recipe. This one-pot wonder, blending fluffy potatoes and savory broth, is the culinary equivalent of a cozy blanket on a chilly day. 

Indulge in the velvety richness that each spoonful delivers, a heartwarming testament to home cooking at its best.

Each sip introduces a symphony of flavors, underscoring the magic of carefully chosen, quality ingredients. 

Whether seeking solace after a long day or relishing time around the table with loved ones, this soup’s comforting allure is undeniable.

This easy-to-follow recipe, with tips for achieving peak creaminess, is a surefire guide to culinary success. 

Unveil the power of potatoes, unleash your kitchen prowess, and make every mealtime moment count with this Mashed Potato Soup recipe.

This delightful creation isn’t just a meal; it’s a gastronomic experience you’ll crave repeatedly.

What Is Mashed Potato Soup?

Mashed Potato Soup is a warming, creamy dish that takes comfort food to the next level. It blends boiled, mashed potatoes with a rich broth, typically made from chicken or vegetable stock.

Additional ingredients may include butter, cream, onions, garlic, and various seasonings for flavor. 

Often garnished with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or crumbled bacon, this soup is a perfect, hearty meal on a cold day yet is versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients? 

Here’s how you can adjust the Mashed Potato Soup recipe to fit various dietary needs:

• Keto: Use cauliflower instead of potatoes for a low-carb alternative. Substitute heavy cream for milk and ensure your stock is free from additives with hidden carbs.
• Paleo: Similar to keto, replace potatoes with cauliflower. Use ghee instead of butter, coconut, or almond milk instead of dairy. Your stock or broth should be homemade or paleo-approved.
• Gluten-Free: The standard Mashed Potato Soup recipe is typically gluten-free. Just ensure your stock and any add-ins like bacon are gluten-free as well.
• Whole30: Use ghee instead of butter and compliant almond or coconut milk instead of dairy. Ensure your chicken or vegetable stock is Whole30 compliant.
• Vegetarian: Simply use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
• Vegan: Substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan margarine, use vegetable stock, and replace the dairy with plant-based milk or cream. You can add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without actual cheese.

Recipe Directions

• In a saucepan, sauté the onions in butter until they become tender and release their aromatic flavors.
• Pour in the creamy milk, the prepared mashed potatoes, salt, and a dash of optional celery salt and pepper.
• Allow the delightful mixture to heat gently, ensuring all the flavors blend harmoniously for a satisfying taste.
• Just before serving, add a sprinkle of minced fresh or dried chives, elevating the soup’s presentation and adding fresh herbal goodness.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

There are numerous ways to jazz up your Mashed Potato Soup recipe:

Variations

• Spice it up: Add a touch of heat with a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce.
• Veggie boost: Toss carrots, peas, or corn for added nutrition and flavor.
• Go creamy: Swap the milk with cream or half-and-half for a richer, creamier texture.
• Potato switch: Use sweet potatoes instead for a delightful twist.

Add-Ons

• Meat lovers: Add cooked bacon bits or diced ham for a meaty upgrade.
• Cheese: Stir in some grated cheddar or gouda for a cheesy infusion.
• Plant power: For a vegan twist, include sautéed mushrooms or tofu cubes.

Toppings

• Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley, dill, or chives for an aromatic garnish.
• Crunch factor: Add croutons or crispy fried onions for a delightful contrast.
• Say cheese: Top with shredded cheese; it melts perfectly on the hot soup.
• Final touch: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt provides a tangy contrast.

Can I Make Mashed Potato Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

The Mashed Potato Soup recipe is adaptable to slow cookers and Instant Pots.

Slow Cooker Method

• Sauté the onions in butter in a skillet until tender, then transfer to the slow cooker.
• Add the potatoes, seasonings, and broth to the slow cooker.
• Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender.
• Mash the potatoes to your desired consistency and stir in the milk or cream.
• Heat through on the low setting for another 15-20 minutes.
• Garnish and serve.

Instant Pot Method

• Using the sauté function, cook the onions in butter until tender.
• Add the potatoes, seasonings, and broth.
• Secure the lid, set the valve to sealing, and pressure cook on high for about 10 minutes.
• Once done, use the quick release to vent the steam, then open the pot.
• Mash the potatoes, mix in the milk or cream, then use the sauté function to heat through.
• Garnish and serve.

Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

You can use store-bought or homemade broth in your Mashed Potato Soup recipe. The choice largely depends on your time, resources, and personal preference.

Store-Bought Broth

• This is a convenient option and perfect when you’re short on time. Look for high-quality, low-sodium broths for the best flavor. 
• Lower sodium gives you more control over your soup’s saltiness.

Homemade Broth

• If you have the time and ingredients, homemade broth can elevate your soup to the next level. 
• It typically has a fresher, richer flavor profile compared to store-bought versions. You can make it in large batches and freeze it in portions for later use.

How To Serve?

• Garnish: Use fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or thyme for a pop of color and freshness. Crispy bacon, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream can add texture and richness.
• Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread, a warm biscuit, or toasted garlic bread. These can be great for dipping and soaking up every last drop of soup.
• Pairings: Pair it with a fresh green salad for a lighter contrast or a sandwich for a heartier meal.
• Temperature: The soup is best served hot. If it’s made ahead, reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• Presentation: Use wide, shallow bowls to showcase your soup and its garnishes. You could also serve it in a bread bowl for a fun and edible presentation.
• Portions: Smaller portions would be appropriate if you serve the soup as a starter. If it’s the main dish, larger portions are suitable.

Perfect Side Dishes

• Salad: A light, crisp salad with vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup. A simple green salad, a tangy coleslaw, or a tomato-cucumber salad would work well.
• Bread: A crusty baguette, soft dinner rolls, or garlic bread are great for dipping into the soup and adding a satisfying crunch.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic comfort food combo is a soup with a grilled cheese sandwich. The melty cheese and toasty bread perfectly match the creamy soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus can add a different texture and flavor to your meal.
• Charcuterie Board: A selection of your favorite cheeses, cured meats, fruits, and crackers can be enjoyable and social to share.
• Pickles or Fermented Veggies: For a tangy contrast to the rich soup, serve alongside some dill pickles, pickled beets, or sauerkraut.

Storage And Make Ahead

• Refrigeration: Store leftover mashed potato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it cools completely before refrigerating.
• Freezing: Mashed potato soup can be frozen for longer storage. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator and warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the soup base in advance, excluding any dairy or toppings. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the base, then add dairy, mashed potatoes, and toppings for a freshly made taste.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

• Reheat: Simply reheat the soup for another comforting meal.
• Thicken Other Soups: Use the leftovers as a base to thicken other soups or stews.
• Make Potato Pancakes: Combine with flour and egg, then pan-fry for crispy potato pancakes.
• Create a Casserole: Mix with cheese and vegetables, then bake as a casserole.
• Stuffed Peppers: Use the soup as a filling for stuffed bell peppers.
• Potato Bread Base: Incorporate into bread dough for potato-flavored bread.
• Freeze: Portion and freeze the leftovers for a quick future meal.
• Create a Dip: Blend with sour cream and herbs for a delicious dip.

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