Creamy Potato Soup: A Simple Recipe for Comfort Food
Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of delicious potato soup? Look no further! This recipe uses cream of potato soup as a base, making it incredibly easy to prepare while still delivering rich, creamy flavor. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your taste. However, here's a list of the essential ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the aromatics. You can substitute with butter for a richer flavor.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds depth of flavor to the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the savory notes.
- 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced: The star of the show! Russets are ideal for their creamy texture when cooked.
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor): Provides the liquid base for the soup.
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of potato soup: This is our secret ingredient for extra creaminess and potato flavor!
- 1/2 cup milk or cream: Adds richness and smoothness. Heavy cream will result in a particularly decadent soup.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- Optional additions: Consider adding bacon bits, chives, shredded cheddar cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flair!
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these easy steps to create a creamy and delicious potato soup:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the potatoes and broth: Add the diced potatoes and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
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Blend for creaminess (optional): For an extra smooth soup, use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup to your desired consistency. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Always vent the blender lid to prevent pressure build-up.
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Stir in the cream of potato soup: Stir in the can of cream of potato soup and the milk or cream. Heat through gently, stirring occasionally. Do not boil.
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Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as bacon bits, chives, cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.
Tips for the Perfect Bowl
- Don't overcook the potatoes: Overcooked potatoes can become mushy. Aim for tender but not falling-apart potatoes.
- Adjust the consistency: Add more broth for a thinner soup or less for a thicker soup.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different toppings to find your favorite combination.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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