Ah, potato soup-one of those classic comfort foods that instantly make you feel at home. The creamy texture, the hearty potatoes, the savory broth, and that subtle richness make it a perfect dish, no matter the season. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re just craving something satisfying, a bowl of potato soup is like a warm hug in a bowl. And what better way to make it than with a simple recipe that serves just two? This way, you don’t end up with an entire pot of leftovers (unless, of course, you want some!).
Let’s dive deep into creating the perfect potato soup for two people, filled with delicious flavor and a rich, creamy texture. I’ll walk you through the ingredients, the process, and even offer a few tweaks if you want to get fancy with it. So, grab your pot and let’s get cooking!
Potato Soup For 2 Persons Recipe
Now, when it comes to making a comforting potato soup, it’s important to balance the simplicity of the ingredients with the depth of flavor. We’ll keep things easy, yet satisfying. Here’s how you can create this creamy soup in just a few simple steps:
Ingredients Needed
- 2 large potatoes (russet or Yukon gold)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, but highly recommended)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- Fresh parsley or chives (for garnish, optional)
Cooking Instructions
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Prepare The Potatoes
- Peel the potatoes (or leave the skin on if you prefer a more rustic texture). Cut them into small cubes, about 1-inch in size. This helps them cook evenly and break down into that creamy texture we’re after.
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Sauté The Onions And Garlic
- In a medium-sized pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
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Cook The Potatoes
- Add the cubed potatoes to the pot, stirring them into the butter, onions, and garlic mixture for a minute or two. This step gives the potatoes a chance to absorb those delicious flavors.
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Add The Broth
- Pour in the chicken (or vegetable) broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
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Mash The Potatoes
- Once the potatoes are soft, use a potato masher or a fork to mash them directly in the pot. You can mash them to your desired consistency. Some like it chunky, while others prefer a smooth texture.
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Add The Cream
- Stir in the heavy cream (or milk if you’re using that). Continue to cook on low heat for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup is heated through and creamy.
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Season To Taste
- Add salt and pepper to taste. You can also adjust the creaminess by adding more cream or broth as you go along.
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Garnish And Serve
- Pour the soup into bowls, top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and garnish with fresh parsley or chives. Serve hot and enjoy!
Ingredient Insights
Let’s break down why each ingredient in this recipe plays such an important role in creating a perfectly balanced, flavorful potato soup.
- Potatoes: The star of the show. Potatoes are naturally starchy, which helps to thicken the soup and give it that signature creamy texture. Russet potatoes are the go-to for many soups because they break down well, creating a smooth consistency. Yukon golds are also a great choice if you prefer a creamier, richer flavor.
- Butter: Adds a rich, savory depth to the soup and enhances the flavor of the onions and garlic. Plus, it creates that silky texture we all crave in a good potato soup.
- Onions and Garlic: These two aromatics are essential in building the flavor base. Onions bring sweetness, while garlic adds a punch of savory goodness. Together, they form the backbone of many great dishes, and potato soup is no exception.
- Broth: The broth is the liquid that carries the flavor of the soup. Chicken broth adds a savory, meaty undertone, while vegetable broth will keep things lighter and more plant-based.
- Heavy Cream: The creaminess comes from the heavy cream (or milk). It’s what transforms the soup from just potato and broth into a luxurious, smooth texture. You can adjust the amount of cream depending on how rich you want it.
- Cheddar Cheese and Sour Cream: Both are optional, but they elevate the soup by adding tanginess and richness. The cheese melts into the hot soup, creating pockets of cheesy goodness, while the sour cream adds a creamy, slightly tart contrast.
Expert Tips
- Consistency: If you prefer a chunkier soup, mash the potatoes lightly and leave some chunks for texture. If you want it smoother, you can use an immersion blender to puree the soup or transfer it to a blender (just be careful when handling hot liquids).
- Make it Vegan: If you’re looking for a vegan version, swap the butter for olive oil, use vegetable broth, and replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or any plant-based cream. Skip the cheese and sour cream or use dairy-free alternatives.
- Infuse More Flavor: Add a bay leaf, thyme, or rosemary while simmering the potatoes. These herbs will infuse the soup with an additional layer of flavor. Just remember to remove them before serving!
- Topping Ideas: Try adding crispy bacon bits, green onions, or crumbled crackers on top of your soup for a bit of crunch.
Recipe Variations
While this potato soup is delicious as-is, it’s also a fantastic base for creative variations. Here are some ideas to switch things up and make the recipe your own:
- Bacon and Cheddar: Fry up a few slices of bacon, crumble them, and stir them into the soup at the end. Top with extra shredded cheddar cheese and green onions for a classic loaded baked potato-inspired soup.
- Chili Potato Soup: Add a can of chili or ground beef and beans to the soup for a hearty twist. You can even add some chili powder or paprika for an extra kick.
- Creamy Potato and Leek: Swap the onion for leeks. They have a milder, sweeter flavor that complements potatoes beautifully.
- Potato Soup with Kale: Stir in a handful of fresh chopped kale or spinach toward the end of cooking for a healthy, vibrant twist.
- Dairy-Free Potato Soup: Use coconut milk or a cashew cream blend instead of heavy cream for a creamy, dairy-free version of this soup.
Final Words
Potato soup is one of those recipes that’s deceptively simple yet incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that you can make with minimal ingredients but still end up with something that tastes like it took all day to prepare. Whether you stick with the classic or try one of the variations, you can’t go wrong with this creamy, hearty soup. Plus, it’s perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch with just the right amount of leftovers to enjoy the next day (or not-if you’ve got a healthy appetite!).
FAQs
What Are The Main Ingredients For A Potato Soup Recipe For 2 Persons?
The main ingredients for a potato soup for 2 persons recipe include 2 medium potatoes, 1/2 onion, 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth, 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk, butter, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Can I Use Non-dairy Alternatives For The Heavy Cream In Potato Soup?
Yes, you can use non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk, almond milk, or oat cream as a substitute for heavy cream in the potato soup for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Prepare The Potatoes For The Soup?
Peel the potatoes and cut them into small cubes to ensure they cook evenly and quickly. You can also leave the skin on if you prefer a more rustic texture.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Potato Soup For 2 Persons?
It typically takes about 25 to 30 minutes to cook the soup. This includes time to cook the potatoes and allow the flavors to meld together.
Can I Make Potato Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, potato soup can be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors often improve after sitting for a few hours or overnight. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.
What Can I Add To Potato Soup To Enhance The Flavor?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding ingredients like chopped leeks, smoked paprika, crispy bacon, fresh herbs (such as thyme or parsley), or shredded cheese. You can also experiment with a dash of hot sauce or mustard.
Can I Make Potato Soup Without Broth?
Yes, you can make potato soup without broth by using water as a base. However, the flavor may be less rich. Adding extra seasonings or vegetable scraps can help build flavor in this case.
How Can I Thicken Potato Soup Without Cream?
You can thicken potato soup without cream by mashing some of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot, or using a roux (butter and flour mixture). Another option is to blend a portion of the soup for a smoother texture.
What Can I Serve With Potato Soup For A Complete Meal?
Potato soup pairs well with a side of crusty bread, a simple salad, or a grilled sandwich (such as a BLT or cheese sandwich) for a satisfying meal.
Can I Freeze Leftover Potato Soup For Later Use?
Yes, you can freeze potato soup for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra liquid, as the soup may thicken upon freezing.