If you’re craving a warm, comforting bowl of potato soup but don’t want to make a whole pot that lasts for days, then you’re in the right place! This recipe is designed for a single serving, making it perfect for those cozy evenings when you just need something quick and satisfying. Whether you’re in need of a simple weeknight meal, or a warm comfort dish after a busy day, this potato soup is easy to whip up, delicious, and just the right size for one.
Potato soup has a timeless appeal, offering the perfect blend of creamy texture and hearty potatoes. It’s flexible, forgiving, and incredibly customizable, allowing you to add a variety of ingredients based on your preferences. But best of all, it’s a simple yet flavorful dish that never feels too heavy.
So, let’s dive into this single-serving potato soup recipe that’s not only simple but also bursting with rich flavors that’ll make you feel right at home. We’ll go step-by-step, from gathering ingredients to finishing touches!
Potato Soup For 1 Person Recipe
This potato soup recipe is as simple as it is tasty, designed to serve just one person. It’s the perfect solution for when you want to enjoy the comfort of homemade soup but don’t want to deal with leftovers.
Ingredients Needed
To make this creamy, comforting bowl of potato soup, you’ll need:
- 1 medium-sized potato: This is the star of the show. Russet potatoes are great for their starchy texture, but Yukon Gold potatoes will give you a more buttery flavor.
- 1 tablespoon butter: For richness and flavor. It adds depth to the soup.
- 1 small garlic clove, minced: Garlic provides a subtle zing and enhances the soup’s flavor profile.
- 1/2 small onion, diced: The onion adds a savory depth to the soup, bringing a little sweetness as it cooks.
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth: This will form the base of your soup, infusing it with delicious savory flavors.
- 1/4 cup milk: For that creamy texture. You can use whole milk, half-and-half, or even a non-dairy milk alternative for different textures.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To balance the flavors and season the soup just right.
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): If you’re looking for a cheesy twist, this will melt beautifully into the soup.
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions (optional): A garnish for freshness and color!
Cooking Instructions
Making potato soup for one person is as easy as it gets. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a hot bowl of delicious soup ready in no time!
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Prepare The Potato
- Peel the potato if you prefer a smooth texture, or leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients.
- Dice the potato into small cubes for quicker cooking.
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Cook The Onion And Garlic
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until softened and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Cook The Potato
- Add the diced potatoes to the pan, stirring them to coat with the butter, onions, and garlic.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, enough to just cover the potatoes.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover.
- Let the potatoes cook for 10-12 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
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Blend The Soup
- Once the potatoes are soft, use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash or blend the soup to your desired consistency. For a smoother soup, you can use a hand blender or regular blender (be cautious of hot splashes).
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Add Milk And Season
- Stir in the milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken.
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Optional Cheese
- For a cheesy version, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
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Garnish And Serve
- Serve your soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions on top for a burst of color and freshness.
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in this potato soup serves a distinct purpose, and understanding their roles will elevate the final result.
- Potatoes: The primary ingredient, they provide a starchy base that thickens the soup and gives it a creamy texture. Russets are the classic choice because they break down easily, but Yukon Golds will add a silky, buttery flavor.
- Butter: This rich fat helps sauté the vegetables, infusing the soup with deep flavor. Butter also contributes to the creamy mouthfeel of the soup.
- Onion and Garlic: These aromatics form the foundation of the soup’s flavor. Onions bring a mild sweetness when cooked, while garlic adds a savory, slightly pungent kick.
- Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth provides the savory liquid base for the soup. If you’re aiming for a lighter, vegetarian version, vegetable broth is perfect. If you want something richer, chicken broth adds extra depth.
- Milk: This ingredient is what transforms the soup from a brothy base into a creamy delight. You can play with different milk options-whole milk for richness, or a lighter option like almond milk for a dairy-free version.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar is optional but adds a melty, gooey richness that makes the soup more indulgent. The cheese’s sharpness contrasts with the creaminess, creating a balanced flavor.
Expert Tips
- Use Starchy Potatoes: Russet potatoes are high in starch and break down easily when cooked, giving you that smooth, creamy texture. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can use waxier potatoes like red potatoes, but they won’t break down as much.
- Blend to Your Liking: Some people love a completely smooth soup, while others prefer some chunks of potato. Don’t be afraid to adjust the consistency by blending it to your liking, or just mashing some of the potatoes and leaving others whole.
- Season Gradually: Taste your soup as it simmers and add salt and pepper incrementally. Broths can vary in sodium content, so it’s better to start with less and adjust to taste.
- Top It Off: A swirl of sour cream or a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits can turn this humble soup into something extra special. If you’re going for a more indulgent version, crumbled bacon adds a smoky crunch.
Recipe Variations
Potato soup is incredibly versatile! Here are a few ways you can mix things up:
- Cheesy Potato Soup: Stir in a handful of your favorite cheese (cheddar, gouda, mozzarella, etc.) for a gooey, cheesy soup.
- Bacon Potato Soup: Add crispy bacon bits either while cooking or as a topping for extra flavor. Bacon adds a smoky, salty kick that pairs wonderfully with potatoes.
- Loaded Potato Soup: Top with sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, and even crumbled bacon for a loaded potato experience in soup form.
- Vegan Potato Soup: Use olive oil instead of butter, and swap the milk for a non-dairy alternative like almond milk or oat milk. Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese.
- Spicy Potato Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to give your soup a spicy kick. A sprinkle of chili flakes on top can also elevate the heat.
Final Words
Potato soup is one of those dishes that just feels like home. It’s easy to make, soothing, and endlessly customizable. Whether you enjoy it as a simple, creamy bowl of goodness or want to dress it up with toppings like cheese, bacon, or herbs, this recipe can meet all your potato soup cravings.
Even though it’s meant for just one, you can easily double or triple the ingredients if you’re cooking for more. And the best part? You don’t have to worry about leftovers sitting in your fridge for days-unless you want to!
FAQs
How Do I Make Potato Soup For 1 Person?
To make potato soup for 1 person, you’ll need about 1 medium potato, half a small onion, 1 cup of vegetable or chicken broth, 1/4 cup of milk or cream, and some salt and pepper to taste. Start by sautéing chopped onion in butter or oil until softened, then add diced potatoes, broth, and bring it to a boil. Simmer until the potatoes are tender, then mash some of the potatoes for a thicker texture. Add milk or cream, and season with salt and pepper.
Can I Use Any Type Of Potato For The Soup?
Yes, but some potatoes work better than others. Starchy potatoes like Russet potatoes will give the soup a creamy texture, while waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold hold their shape better. Both are suitable, but for creaminess, Russets are preferred.
How Can I Make The Soup Creamier Without Using Cream?
To make your potato soup creamier without using cream, you can add a little extra butter, use milk (whole milk for richer flavor), or blend part of the soup. Using a hand blender to purée a portion of the soup will create a creamy texture without needing heavy cream.
What Seasonings Can I Add To Enhance The Flavor Of My Potato Soup?
Common seasonings for potato soup include garlic, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and pepper. You can also add a pinch of paprika, ground mustard, or even a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor. Taste as you go to make sure the soup is seasoned to your liking.
Can I Add Vegetables Or Other Ingredients To The Soup?
Yes, you can add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or leeks. Chopped bacon, cheese, or green onions are also common additions. If you prefer a heartier version, you can include cooked chicken, sausage, or even a handful of spinach.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Potato Soup For 1 Person?
The total cooking time for potato soup for 1 person is about 20-30 minutes. This includes sautéing onions, cooking the potatoes until tender, and allowing the flavors to meld together. If you’re adding extra vegetables or protein, it may take slightly longer.
Can I Make Potato Soup For 1 Person Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can make potato soup ahead of time. It stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Simply reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a little extra milk or broth if needed to restore the creamy consistency.
How Can I Make The Soup Spicy?
To make your potato soup spicy, add ingredients like chopped jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a small amount of hot sauce. You can also add some chili flakes or a dash of paprika for a smoky heat.
What Is The Best Way To Thicken Potato Soup?
To thicken potato soup, you can mash a portion of the potatoes directly in the pot. Alternatively, use a hand blender to blend part of the soup or add a slurry of flour and water. For a creamier thickness, you can add cornstarch or potato flakes.
Can I Freeze Leftover Potato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze leftover potato soup, but it may change in texture when reheated. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra liquid to adjust the consistency.