There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of potato soup, especially when it’s made from leftovers. Whether it’s the rich, creamy texture, the heartiness of the potatoes, or the soothing warmth of a bowl on a chilly day, leftover potato soup has the ability to turn a simple meal into something extraordinary. What’s even better? This dish is incredibly versatile and makes for an excellent solution to minimize food waste while still crafting something tasty, filling, and absolutely satisfying.
One of the best things about leftover potato soup is how easy it is to customize. You can throw in extra ingredients, experiment with different spices, and even make it lighter or heartier depending on your preferences. Plus, the flavor usually improves after a day or two, making it the perfect meal prep choice. Let’s dive in!
Leftover Potato Soup Recipe
If you’ve ever made mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, or roasted potatoes, you know that there’s often a bit left over. Instead of letting it go to waste, why not transform it into a delicious, creamy leftover potato soup? You’ll be amazed at how such a simple recipe can elevate those leftover potatoes into something completely new.
This recipe will help you get the most out of your leftovers, all while keeping things quick, easy, and absolutely delicious.
Ingredients Needed
To make a comforting and creamy leftover potato soup, you won’t need much more than what you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients:
- Leftover Potatoes: Mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, or roasted potatoes-this is the foundation of your soup! If you’re using mashed potatoes, make sure they’re not too thick. The consistency of your soup will depend a lot on the type of potatoes you’ve got left over.
- Broth or Stock (Chicken or Vegetable): The liquid base of your soup. Depending on your preference, use chicken broth for a richer flavor, or vegetable broth for a lighter taste. If you want a creamier version, you can replace part of the broth with milk or cream.
- Butter: For that rich, velvety texture and a little bit of indulgence.
- Onion: A finely chopped onion will add depth of flavor and a subtle sweetness.
- Garlic: A couple of cloves will infuse the soup with a savory, aromatic kick.
- Heavy Cream or Milk: For extra creaminess! You can adjust this to get the texture you like.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar is a classic choice, but you could also use Gruyère, mozzarella, or parmesan. It melts beautifully and adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, of course. These two are your basic seasonings that will bring all the flavors together.
- Fresh Herbs (Optional): Fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary can give your soup a lovely, fragrant aroma. They also add a bit of color and freshness to balance the creamy base.
Cooking Instructions
This leftover potato soup recipe is pretty straightforward and comes together in no time at all. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:
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Sauté The Aromatics
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and garlic.
- Stir frequently, allowing the onions to soften and become translucent (about 3-5 minutes). This will build the base of flavor for your soup.
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Add The Broth
- Pour in your chicken or vegetable broth. If you’re using leftovers that are a little more solid (like mashed potatoes), you might want to add a bit more broth to thin things out.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally and let the flavors combine.
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Incorporate The Leftover Potatoes
- Add your leftover potatoes into the pot. If they’re mashed, stir them in and let them break down further in the soup. If they’re chunks of baked or roasted potatoes, you can either leave them as-is for a chunkier texture or mash them into the broth for a creamier consistency.
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Add Cream Or Milk
- Once your potatoes are fully incorporated and heated through, pour in the heavy cream or milk. Stir to combine and adjust the texture. If you like a thicker soup, you can use less liquid. For a lighter soup, go for more milk or broth.
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Season
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Remember, potatoes love salt, so you might need a little more than you think.
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Add Cheese
- Stir in your shredded cheese. This will melt into the soup and make it wonderfully creamy and cheesy. Let it simmer for a few more minutes until everything is well combined.
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Garnish And Serve
- If you’re using fresh herbs, sprinkle them on top just before serving. A sprinkle of extra cheese or a dash of hot sauce can also elevate your soup.
Ingredient Insights
- Leftover Potatoes: Potatoes are naturally starchy and can help thicken up the soup, giving it a smooth, creamy texture. Depending on the type of potato, you might notice slight differences in texture. Russet potatoes, for example, are high in starch, making them perfect for thickening soups.
- Broth or Stock: The type of broth you use will have a significant impact on the flavor. Chicken broth adds a savory, umami flavor, while vegetable broth tends to be lighter and allows the potato flavor to shine through.
- Heavy Cream: This is the secret to that luxurious, creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can replace some of the cream with milk, or for a dairy-free option, use coconut milk or almond milk.
- Cheese: The type of cheese you use can drastically change the flavor profile. Cheddar brings sharpness and creaminess, while something like Gruyère offers a nutty, more complex taste.
Expert Tips
- Consistency Control: If you want a smoother soup, blend it! An immersion blender works wonders for pureeing the potatoes into a velvety consistency. If you don’t have one, you can transfer it to a regular blender in batches.
- Boost the Flavor: Add a touch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a smoky or spicy kick. You can also throw in some freshly ground black pepper for a more peppery finish.
- Make it Vegetarian or Vegan: Swap the broth for vegetable stock, use dairy-free milk (like oat or almond milk), and skip the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative. For extra flavor, add some sautéed mushrooms.
Recipe Variations
One of the things I love about leftover potato soup is how easily it can be modified to fit different tastes and diets. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:
- Bacon and Cheddar: Crumbled bacon bits are a perfect addition to a potato soup. They add crunch and a smoky flavor that complements the richness of the cheese. You can also use pancetta or prosciutto.
- Loaded Potato Soup: For a heartier version, top the soup with sour cream, chopped green onions, and extra shredded cheese. This is essentially a ’loaded baked potato’ in soup form.
- Vegetable-Heavy Soup: Add some leftover vegetables like carrots, leeks, or spinach to increase the fiber and nutrition of your soup. A handful of kale can also add a nice texture and flavor.
- Spicy Potato Soup: If you enjoy heat, throw in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. A sprinkle of chili flakes could also give the soup a spicy edge.
Final Words
Leftover potato soup is one of those dishes that proves you don’t need to reinvent the wheel to make something amazing. It’s about taking simple ingredients, adding a bit of creativity, and letting the flavors meld together into something comforting and filling. It’s a great way to reuse food in an environmentally friendly and delicious way.
You can adapt the recipe however you like, whether you prefer a classic, creamy version or something with a little more zing. It’s a flexible dish that can suit anyone’s preferences.
FAQs
What Is The Best Way To Store Leftover Potato Soup?
The best way to store leftover potato soup is by transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerating it for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a little broth or water if the soup has thickened.
Can I Freeze Leftover Potato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze leftover potato soup. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. When reheating, be cautious as the potatoes may become grainy. Adding a bit of extra cream or broth can help restore its texture.
How Do I Make Leftover Potato Soup Creamier?
To make leftover potato soup creamier, you can add additional cream, milk, or a dollop of sour cream. For a richer texture, try blending part of the soup with an immersion blender and then mixing it back in.
What Can I Add To Leftover Potato Soup To Make It More Flavorful?
You can add a variety of ingredients to enhance the flavor of leftover potato soup. Consider adding garlic, fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, cheese, crispy bacon, or sautéed onions. A splash of white wine or vinegar can also brighten the flavors.
How Can I Thicken Leftover Potato Soup?
To thicken leftover potato soup, you can use a few methods: mash some of the potatoes directly in the soup, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water). Let the soup simmer after thickening to enhance the flavor.
Can I Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes In Potato Soup?
Yes, leftover mashed potatoes work well in potato soup. They help thicken the soup and add a creamy texture. Simply stir them in during the reheating process. You may need to add extra broth or milk to adjust the consistency.
How Can I Make My Leftover Potato Soup Spicier?
To spice up leftover potato soup, you can add hot sauce, chili flakes, or diced jalapeños. Alternatively, try seasoning with smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Can I Add Vegetables To My Leftover Potato Soup?
Yes, adding vegetables like carrots, celery, leeks, or spinach can bring more color and nutrients to your leftover potato soup. Simply sauté the vegetables first, and then stir them into the soup as you reheat it.
Can I Make A Dairy-free Version Of Leftover Potato Soup?
Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by substituting dairy products with plant-based alternatives. Use coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk in place of cream, and choose a dairy-free butter or oil. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Long Will Leftover Potato Soup Last In The Refrigerator?
Leftover potato soup will last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days if stored properly in an airtight container. If you’re not sure whether it’s still safe to eat, check for any changes in smell, texture, or taste.