This warm and hearty Grandma’s Potato Soup is like a hug in a bowl! With creamy potatoes, rich broth, and just a hint of seasoning, it’s pure comfort food.
Every time I make it, the house fills with a cozy smell that reminds me of family gatherings. It’s super simple to whip up, too—perfect for chilly nights or when you’re feeling a bit under the weather!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets for a creamy texture. If you prefer waxy potatoes, Yukon Golds work well too. You can even mix types for depth in flavor.
Chicken broth: While chicken broth gives great flavor, vegetable broth is a perfect substitute for vegetarians. Homemade broth is also delicious if you have the time!
Onion & Garlic: These two add essential flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use onion powder and garlic powder instead—about a teaspoon of each should do the trick.
Milk/Half-and-Half: For a lighter option, use low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk. Coconut milk can add a nice twist, but it will change the flavor a bit.
How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Texture in My Soup?
Getting that creamy goodness in potato soup comes down to mashing the potatoes correctly. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- After the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes right in the pot. This will thicken the soup while keeping chunks.
- If you want it super smooth, use an immersion blender in short bursts, blending just until you see the desired consistency. Don’t over-blend; a few chunks give it character!
Remember, if it gets too thick, you can easily add more broth or milk to adjust the soup’s consistency. Enjoy making this cozy dish!
Grandma’s Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried dill (optional)
For Garnish:
- Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- Fresh chopped chives or parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a delicious bowl of Grandma’s Potato Soup ready in about 40 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This is where the magic starts!
2. Make the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Stir constantly to form a roux and cook for about 2 minutes without letting it brown. This step will give your soup a lovely creamy texture.
3. Add the Broth:
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth. Make sure to stir well to keep the mixture smooth. Now, bring it to a gentle boil, building anticipation for that yummy soup!
4. Cook the Potatoes:
Add the diced potatoes to the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender enough to pierce with a fork.
5. Mash and Blend:
Using a potato masher or an immersion blender, partially mash some of the potatoes. This creates a creamy texture while still leaving some chunks for heartiness. It’s all about finding that balance!
6. Add the Creaminess:
Now, stir in the milk or half-and-half, warming through gently without boiling. This enriches the soup, making it even more comforting.
7. Season to Perfection:
Season the soup generously with salt, pepper, and if you like, dried dill. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. This is where it all comes together!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, topped with a lovely dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, and sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color. Each bowl is like a warm hug from Grandma!
Enjoy your creamy, comforting potato soup, just like Grandma used to make!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While starchy potatoes like Russets are ideal for creamy soups, you can also use waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds. Mixing different types can add depth in flavor and texture.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
What Can I Substitute for Milk or Half-and-Half?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk. Coconut milk adds a unique twist but will change the flavor profile slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to leave some space in the container since the soup will expand when frozen!
