Say goodbye to bland soups: elevate mashed potatoes into a culinary masterpiece with this simple recipe
What To Know
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have blended.
- Store the potato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- With just a few simple steps, you can create a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cold night or a quick and easy meal.
Are you tired of the same old mashed potatoes? Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into a velvety smooth and flavorful potato soup with this easy-to-follow guide. This recipe is perfect for using up leftovers, saving you time and effort.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped chives, shredded cheese, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the mashed potatoes, broth, and milk. Stir until well combined.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a separate skillet, heat some oil or butter over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
3. Incorporate the Aromatics: Add the sautéed onion and garlic to the potato mixture. Stir to combine.
4. Season the Soup: Add the thyme, black pepper, and salt to taste. Stir well to distribute the seasonings.
5. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have blended.
6. Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick for your preference, stir in additional milk or broth. If it’s too thin, simmer for a few minutes longer to reduce the liquid.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the creamy potato soup into bowls and top with your desired toppings. Enjoy the comforting warmth of this delicious soup!
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use homemade mashed potatoes.
- If you don’t have mashed potatoes on hand, you can make some quickly by boiling potatoes until tender and then mashing them.
- Add other vegetables to the soup, such as chopped celery, carrots, or peas.
- For a cheesy potato soup, stir in some shredded cheddar cheese after simmering.
- Top the soup with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for a tangy touch.
Variations:
- Loaded Potato Soup: Add crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, and chives to the soup for a loaded potato flavor.
- Creamy Leek and Potato Soup: Replace the onion with leeks for a sweeter and more delicate flavor.
- Roasted Garlic Potato Soup: Roast the garlic before adding it to the soup for a deeper and more intense flavor.
Leftover Storage:
- Store the potato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
The Finishing Touch
Transforming mashed potatoes into a creamy potato soup is a culinary magic trick that will impress your taste buds and save you time. With just a few simple steps, you can create a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cold night or a quick and easy meal. Experiment with different variations and toppings to find your favorite combination. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of this delicious soup!
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
A: Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes, but the soup may not be as creamy or flavorful as when using homemade mashed potatoes.
Q: What if I don’t have chicken or vegetable broth?
A: You can use water instead, but the soup will have a less rich flavor.
Q: How can I make the soup gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free chicken or vegetable broth and make sure the toppings you choose are also gluten-free.
