The first time I made 4 ingredient potato soup was a moment I’ll never forget. Lily and Mia were toddlers, and getting them to eat anything other than chicken nuggets felt like a daily battle. On a chilly evening, I turned to my grandmother’s old cookbook and decided to try this simple soup recipe, hoping it would win them over!
I was amazed by how easy it was, using just four basic ingredients! The aroma filled the kitchen, and to my surprise, Lily and Mia actually asked for seconds! It was a parenting victory for sure.
From that day on, 4 ingredient potato soup became a regular comfort food in our home. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or chilly weekends when I want a warm and satisfying meal without a lot of fuss. It’s so simple, even my kids can help make it now! In fact, peeling and cubing the potatoes is their favorite part. They love feeling like they’re contributing to the meal.
Ingredients for your potato soup
What You’ll Need
For this incredibly easy 4 ingredient potato soup, you’ll need:
- 4 large Russet potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and cubed
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
That’s it! I told you it was simple. You can also use Yukon Gold potatoes if you prefer a creamier texture. Low-sodium broth is a good option if you’re watching your salt intake. Sometimes I even use leftover roasted chicken broth for an extra layer of flavor.
Ingredient Spotlight: Potatoes
Russet potatoes are the classic choice for potato soup because they have a fluffy texture that breaks down nicely when cooked, giving the soup a creamy consistency. Yukon Gold potatoes are another great option. They’re a bit sweeter and creamier than Russets. Red potatoes hold their shape better, so if you like a chunkier soup, they’re a good choice.
When choosing potatoes, look for firm ones without any bruises or soft spots. Store them in a cool, dark place, but not in the refrigerator. This will help them stay fresh longer. I usually buy a big bag of potatoes and keep them in my pantry.
Making the 4 Ingredient Potato Soup
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes: Peel and cube the potatoes into roughly 1-inch pieces. Smaller pieces will cook faster. My girls love helping with this step!
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the potatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Blend: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth. I usually blend in batches to avoid any hot soup splatters. If you like a chunkier soup, you can leave some of the potatoes unblended. My kids actually prefer it a little chunky!
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
- Test for Doneness: You’ll know the potatoes are cooked through when you can easily pierce them with a fork.
- Adjust Thickness: If the soup is too thick, add a little more broth until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Immersion Blender Tip: If you’re using an immersion blender, be sure to keep the blender submerged in the soup to avoid splattering. Pulse the blender in short bursts until smooth.
- Flavor Boost: For extra flavor, I like to add a bay leaf to the soup while it simmers. Just remember to remove it before blending! Sautéing the potatoes in a little butter before adding the broth also adds a nice richness. Sometimes I even add a Parmesan rind to the simmering soup. It adds a wonderful umami flavor.
Equipment Essentials for the Potato Soup
Tools of the Trade
Making this soup doesn’t require any fancy equipment, but a few key tools make the process easier. A good, sharp peeler is essential for prepping the potatoes quickly. I also recommend using a Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot for simmering the soup. It distributes the heat evenly and prevents scorching. Finally, either a regular blender or an immersion blender is needed to achieve that creamy, smooth texture. I personally prefer my immersion blender – it’s less messy and cleanup is a breeze.
Nutritional Information
Healthy and Hearty
This 4 ingredient potato soup isn’t just delicious, it’s also a surprisingly healthy meal. Potatoes are a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Using chicken broth or vegetable broth adds extra nutrients. Plus, it’s a naturally low-fat and relatively low-calorie soup, especially if you skip the heavy cream and cheese. Of course, adding toppings like bacon or cheese will increase the fat and calorie content, so keep that in mind if you’re watching your intake. This soup is easily customizable to fit your dietary needs.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Spice It Up: Flavor Variations
This 4 ingredient potato soup is delicious as is, but it’s also a great blank canvas for adding different flavors. Here are a few ideas:
- Classic Comfort: Add a pinch of dried thyme or rosemary while the soup simmers for a warm, herbaceous flavor. Top with a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche and some chopped chives.
- Garlic Lover’s Dream: Roast a head of garlic and add the softened cloves to the soup before blending. The roasted garlic adds a deep, savory sweetness.
- Smoky Bacon Bliss: Cook some bacon until crispy, crumble it, and sprinkle it over the soup as a garnish. The smoky bacon flavor complements the creamy potatoes perfectly.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a spicy kick. You could also top it with some chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
- Cheesy Goodness: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese after blending for a cheesy, comforting twist.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is a wonderful meal on its own, but you can also pair it with other dishes to make it a more complete meal. Here are some ideas:
- Bread Basket: Serve with crusty bread, breadsticks, or rolls for dipping. My girls love to dunk grilled cheese sandwiches in their soup.
- Fresh Salad: A light, fresh salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a great counterpoint to the creamy soup.
- Side of Protein: For a heartier meal, serve the soup with grilled chicken, fish, or a side of beans.
- Garnishing Tips: A simple garnish can elevate the presentation of your soup. Try a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a swirl of cream, or a few croutons.
Looking for other comforting soup recipes? Try this delicious broccoli potato soup or explore this hearty vegan soup dumplings recipe.
FAQ
What is the best thickener for potato soup?
This 4 ingredient potato soup is naturally creamy thanks to the starchy potatoes, so it doesn’t usually require a thickener. However, if you prefer an even thicker consistency, you can blend a larger portion of the soup. Alternatively, you can make a slurry by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour with a little cold water and whisking it into the simmering soup until thickened.
What seasonings go in potato soup?
The base recipe uses just salt and pepper, but you can easily customize the flavor with other seasonings. Classic choices include onion powder, garlic powder, and herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives. For a smoky flavor, try smoked paprika or a pinch of chipotle powder.
How to make canned potato soup taste better?
While this recipe focuses on fresh ingredients, I understand that sometimes you need a quick meal. If you’re using canned potato soup, you can easily boost its flavor. Sautéed onions and garlic are great additions, along with your favorite spices. A splash of cream or milk adds richness, and some fresh herbs brighten it up. Even a simple dollop of sour cream and some chopped chives can make a big difference!
Storing and Reheating
How to Store Leftovers
Leftover 4 ingredient potato soup should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. I like to use glass containers because they don’t retain odors. Make sure the soup has cooled completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation and bacterial growth.
Reheating Your Soup
You can reheat the soup in several ways:
- Stovetop: Gently reheat the soup in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. This is my preferred method because it heats the soup evenly.
- Microwave: Reheat individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute or so to ensure even heating. Be careful, as microwaving can sometimes cause the soup to become very hot in spots.
- Slow Cooker: You can also reheat the soup in a slow cooker on the low setting for a few hours. This is a great option if you’re going to be away from home.
No matter which method you choose, avoid boiling the soup, as this can cause the potatoes to break down and make the soup watery. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and scorching. You may need to add a little extra broth if the soup has thickened too much in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
This 4 ingredient potato soup is more than just a simple recipe; it’s a symbol of warmth, comfort, and family meals shared together in my home. From a picky-eater parenting win to a cozy weeknight dinner, this soup has become a staple. It’s a recipe I know you’ll cherish, just like my family does. Give it a try, and see how something so easy can be so delicious!