Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Peel and dice the potatoes into evenly-sized chunks for uniform cooking.
  2. Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5–7 minutes, until soft and translucent.
  3. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

  1. Add the diced potatoes to the pot, followed by the chicken or vegetable broth.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 4: Make the Roux

  1. In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  2. Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to create a roux (a paste that will thicken the soup).
  3. Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly until smooth and slightly thickened. Set aside.

Step 5: Blend the Soup (Optional)

  1. For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, transfer half of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
  2. If you prefer a chunkier soup, skip the blending step.

Step 6: Add the Roux

  1. Stir the roux into the soup, ensuring it’s evenly incorporated.
  2. Simmer for another 5–10 minutes to allow the soup to thicken and the flavors to meld.

Step 7: Season and Serve

  1. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper.
  2. Ladle the soup into bowls and add your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.

Tips for Perfect Potato Soup

  1. Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes yield a creamy texture, while Russet potatoes create a slightly thicker, heartier soup.
  2. Don’t Overcook: Simmer gently to avoid the potatoes breaking down too much.
  3. For Extra Creaminess: Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half for a richer soup.
  4. Make It Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip bacon as a topping.
  5. Reheating: Gently reheat leftovers on the stove, adding a splash of milk or broth if the soup thickens too much.

Variations

  1. Loaded Potato Soup: Stir in shredded cheese and top with all the fixings (bacon, sour cream, green onions).
  2. Herb-Infused: Add thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves for an earthy flavor.
  3. Spicy Twist: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for heat and depth.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy potato soup with:

  • Crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping.
  • A crisp green salad for a light, balanced meal.
  • Grilled cheese sandwiches for the ultimate comfort food combo.

Conclusion

Easy potato soup is the perfect dish for any occasion, offering rich flavors and satisfying textures in every spoonful. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a comforting homemade meal. Customize it with your favorite toppings, serve it alongside a warm slice of bread, and enjoy the cozy satisfaction of this classic soup. Give it a try, and let it become a staple in your recipe rotation!