Imagine the warmth of a hearty, soul-satisfying bowl of soup-perfect for those chilly evenings when you just want something comforting and filling. Meat and Potato Soup is a classic, timeless dish that brings together simple ingredients like tender meat, soft potatoes, and a rich broth that soothes your body and lifts your spirits. It’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also a flexible recipe that can be adjusted to suit your preferences or what you have available in your kitchen. This dish effortlessly combines flavor and nutrition, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, prepping meals for the week, or just looking for something that both warms and nourishes, meat and potato soup never disappoints. It’s rustic, it’s rich, and it’s a full meal in one bowl. And the best part? It’s so simple to prepare, yet packed with flavor that feels like you’ve been cooking for hours.
Meat And Potato Soup Recipe
Let’s dive into the recipe itself. It’s really straightforward and doesn’t require you to be a master chef. The balance of meat, potatoes, and vegetables creates a filling, flavorful dish that’s sure to satisfy. You’ll find that it’s easily customizable based on your taste, so don’t hesitate to make it your own!
Ingredients Needed
- 1 lb beef stew meat (or any type of meat you prefer, like pork, chicken, or lamb)
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups beef broth (you can substitute with chicken or vegetable broth)
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas (or any other frozen vegetable you prefer)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
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Prepare The Meat
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the beef stew meat and season with salt and pepper. Brown the meat on all sides for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s a nice golden brown. This step adds depth to the flavor, as the meat will release a rich aroma and flavor when seared.
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Sauté Vegetables
Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot with the meat. Stir them around and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent. The garlic will start to release its fragrance, creating an irresistible savory base for the soup.
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Add Broth And Potatoes
Pour in the beef broth (or your choice of broth) and stir in the diced potatoes, carrots, and celery. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
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Thicken The Soup (Optional)
If you want a thicker soup, make a slurry by mixing the flour with a bit of water to form a smooth paste. Stir this into the soup and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken. This is optional, but it helps the soup become more creamy and filling.
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Add Frozen Peas
About 5 minutes before the soup is done, stir in the frozen peas and let them warm through. You can also add any other vegetables you like here, like corn, green beans, or even some spinach for extra greens.
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Finish And Season
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. If you like a stronger herb flavor, feel free to add more thyme and rosemary. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving to add a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note.
Ingredient Insights
- Beef Stew Meat: The meat choice in this recipe is essential to creating a hearty, rich flavor. Stew meat, typically cut from tougher parts of the animal, becomes incredibly tender when simmered for a long time in the broth. You could use other cuts like chuck roast or brisket for similar results. For a lighter version, lean cuts like chicken breast or pork tenderloin work well too.
- Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the most common choice because they break down nicely in the soup, adding creaminess to the texture. If you prefer a firmer texture, try Yukon Gold or red potatoes, as they hold their shape better.
- Herbs: Thyme and rosemary bring an earthy, aromatic quality to the soup. They pair perfectly with the meat and potatoes. Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs or add bay leaves, sage, or oregano for a personal twist.
- Broth: The choice of broth will significantly impact the flavor of your soup. Beef broth brings a rich, deep flavor, but chicken broth can offer a lighter taste, while vegetable broth is a great option if you’re looking for a vegetarian version.
Expert Tips
- Browning the Meat: Don’t rush this step! The more time you allow the meat to brown, the more flavor you’ll develop. It’s the Maillard reaction (the fancy word for how food browns) in action, and it adds depth and complexity to the soup’s overall flavor.
- Simmering Time: Simmering the soup on low heat is key to developing flavor. Slow cooking allows all the ingredients to meld together, and the broth absorbs all the richness from the meat and vegetables. Don’t skip the slow simmering!
- Make Ahead: This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. So, feel free to make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before storing.
- Add a Splash of Cream: For a richer, creamier version of this soup, add a splash of heavy cream or milk toward the end of cooking. This adds a velvety texture and elevates the flavor to something indulgent.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Meat and Potato Soup: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to introduce some heat. A dash of smoked paprika can add an extra layer of smokiness and spice.
- Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth and swap the meat for hearty vegetables like mushrooms or lentils. You can also add some plant-based sausage for flavor.
- Herb and Bacon Soup: Fry up some bacon and crumble it over the soup before serving. It’ll add a smoky crunch to contrast with the creamy texture of the potatoes. Also, you can infuse the broth with fresh herbs, like sage, thyme, and bay leaves, for an even more aromatic dish.
- Creamy Potato Soup: For a smooth and creamy version, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup after cooking, leaving a few chunks of potatoes for texture. Add milk or cream for an extra creamy consistency.
Final Words
Meat and Potato Soup is one of those comforting meals that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s simple, it’s filling, and it’s something you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or switch things up with variations, this soup will quickly become a family favorite.
And don’t be afraid to experiment with the ingredients! That’s the beauty of this dish-it’s so versatile. You can add, remove, or swap out components to match your tastes, dietary preferences, or what’s available in your pantry.
FAQs
What Kind Of Meat Is Best For Meat And Potato Soup?
The best meats for meat and potato soup are typically beef or pork. Common choices include ground beef, stew beef, or even a beef chuck roast. Ground sausage can also be used to add extra flavor.
Can I Use A Slow Cooker To Make Meat And Potato Soup?
Yes, a slow cooker is ideal for making meat and potato soup. Brown the meat beforehand for extra flavor, then combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
What Type Of Potatoes Are Best For Potato Soup?
Russet potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes are the best choices for potato soup. Russet potatoes break down slightly when cooked, creating a creamy texture, while Yukon Golds hold their shape and add a nice richness to the soup.
How Do I Thicken My Meat And Potato Soup?
You can thicken meat and potato soup by mashing some of the potatoes in the soup, using a cornstarch slurry, or adding cream or milk. For a richer texture, adding a roux (flour and butter mixture) also works well.
Can I Make Meat And Potato Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, meat and potato soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Is Meat And Potato Soup Gluten-free?
Meat and potato soup can be gluten-free, but it depends on the recipe. If you’re using flour to thicken the soup, substitute it with a gluten-free thickening agent like cornstarch or arrowroot powder.
What Vegetables Can I Add To Meat And Potato Soup?
In addition to potatoes, you can add carrots, celery, onions, and garlic for added flavor and texture. Some people also like to include peas, corn, or green beans for extra variety.
Can I Freeze Meat And Potato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze meat and potato soup. However, keep in mind that potatoes can sometimes become mushy when frozen and reheated. To prevent this, you can freeze the soup without the potatoes and add freshly cooked potatoes when reheating.
What Seasonings Should I Use In Meat And Potato Soup?
Common seasonings for meat and potato soup include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and paprika. You can adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more herbs or spices as needed.
Can I Make A Dairy-free Version Of Meat And Potato Soup?
Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by using a dairy-free milk, such as almond or coconut milk, instead of cream or whole milk. You can also use olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute instead of regular butter.