Easy Potato Soup

This Easy Potato Soup is a creamy, comforting, and satisfying classic. Made with tender potatoes, carrots, and a rich white sauce, it’s velvety, thick, and full of flavor. Inspired by an Idaho potato farmer’s granddaughter, this recipe is simple enough for weeknight dinners but indulgent enough to feel special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and comforting – Thick, velvety texture without being heavy
• Quick and easy – Ready in just 30 minutes
• Customizable – Adjust texture from chunky to smooth
• Family-friendly – Loved by both kids and adults
• Perfect for garnishes – Cheese, parsley, and green onions elevate the flavor

Ingredients

For the Vegetables

• Russet potatoes (2 large, about 4 cups diced) – Softens to creamy perfection
• Carrots (2 large, diced, about 1 cup) – Adds subtle sweetness and color
• Garlic (1 clove, mashed and diced) – Aromatic depth
• Water (3 cups) – Base for simmering vegetables
• Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base (1 tbsp) – Adds rich, savory flavor
• Parsley (¼ cup fresh chopped or 1 tbsp dried) – Fresh herb note
• Kosher salt (1 tsp) – Balances flavors

For the White Sauce (Béchamel)

• Butter (½ cup, 1 stick) – Creates rich base
• All-purpose flour (½ cup) – Thickens the sauce
• Kosher salt (½ tsp) – Seasoning
• Black pepper (½ tsp) – Mild heat
• Milk (4 cups, whole milk preferred) – Creamy liquid base

Optional Garnishes

• Cheddar cheese
• Chopped green onions
• Chopped parsley

How to Make Easy Potato Soup

Boil the Vegetables

Peel and dice potatoes into ½-inch cubes. Peel and dice carrots similarly. Add garlic, potatoes, and carrots to a stock pot with 3 cups of water, just enough to cover the vegetables. Stir in Better Than Bouillon base, parsley, and kosher salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and simmer for 20 minutes until tender.

Mash or Blend

Remove from heat and roughly mash the mixture with a potato masher for a velvety texture with some chunks. Use an immersion blender if you prefer ultra-smooth soup.

Make the White Sauce

In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour, whisking constantly to form a roux. Stir in salt and pepper and cook 1–3 minutes. Slowly add milk, 1 cup at a time, whisking to incorporate before adding more. Continue stirring until the sauce boils for 1 minute, then remove from heat.

Combine and Serve

Pour the white sauce into the pot with potatoes and carrots, stirring to combine. Serve warm with optional garnishes of cheddar, green onions, and parsley.

Tips for Success

• Warm the milk before adding to roux for faster, lump-free sauce
• Adjust texture – Leave chunky, partially mashed, or fully smooth
• Store properly – Refrigerate leftovers up to 5 days; do not freeze
• Season to taste – Adjust salt and pepper after combining

Equipment Needed

• 3-quart stock pot – For boiling vegetables
• Separate pot for white sauce – For béchamel
• Potato masher or immersion blender – For desired texture
• Whisk – For white sauce
• Knife & cutting board – For prep

Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Potato Soup – Stir in extra cheddar into the soup for richness
• Bacon Potato Soup – Top with crumbled cooked bacon for smoky flavor
• Vegetable Boost – Add peas, corn, or celery to increase nutrition
• Vegan Version – Use plant-based milk, butter substitute, and vegetable bouillon

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with warm bread or rolls
• Garnish with extra parsley, cheese, or green onions
• Pair with light salad for a complete meal
• Enjoy as a hearty lunch or dinner

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, store in the fridge up to 5 days.
Can I make it smooth? Yes, use an immersion blender or regular blender.
Can I add other vegetables? Yes, carrots, peas, corn, or celery work well.
Is it gluten-free? Not as written; substitute flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch for a GF version.
Can I use vegetable bouillon? Yes, for vegetarian-friendly soup.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Potato Soup is creamy, comforting, and perfect for any occasion. With tender potatoes, sweet carrots, and a rich béchamel base, it’s a bowl of cozy satisfaction. Customize with your favorite garnishes, serve with warm bread, and enjoy a classic, homemade soup that’s simple, fast, and delicious.

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