Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Potato soup is a classic comfort food that warms you up and satisfies your cravings. This version, however, takes things up a notch with a secret ingredient that adds extra depth and richness to the flavor. The creamy texture combined with tender potatoes makes this soup perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a chilly evening or a cozy family meal.

The addition of this secret ingredient not only enhances the flavor but also makes the soup velvety smooth. You’ll want to keep this recipe on hand, as it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!

Ingredients

4 cups of potatoes, peeled and diced
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sour cream (this is the secret ingredient!)
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth (or leave it a bit chunky if you prefer texture).
Stir in the milk, heavy cream, sour cream, and garlic powder. Let it simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to thicken and combine the flavors.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the soup in bowls, topped with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Vegan Option: Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk and the sour cream with a plant-based version.
Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can add a little extra milk or cream to bring back its creamy texture if it thickens too much after storing.

FAQs

1. Can I make this potato soup in advance?

Yes! This soup actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to meld together. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

2. Can I freeze potato soup?

Yes, you can freeze potato soup. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

3. What can I use if I don’t have sour cream for the secret ingredient?

You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.

4. Can I use a regular blender instead of an immersion blender?

Yes, but you’ll need to be cautious when blending hot soup. Allow the soup to cool slightly before blending in batches, and ensure the blender lid is vented to avoid pressure buildup.

5. How can I thicken my potato soup?

If your soup is too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid, or you can add a bit of cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water) to thicken it.

6. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this potato soup is naturally gluten-free, as long as the broth you use is also gluten-free.

7. How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy?

Be sure to monitor the cooking time, and check the potatoes with a fork. Once they are just fork-tender, you can stop cooking to avoid overcooking them.

8. Can I add vegetables to this soup?

Certainly! Adding vegetables like carrots or celery is a great way to boost the flavor and nutrition of this soup.

9. Can I use dairy-free substitutes in this recipe?

Yes, you can easily replace dairy ingredients. Use coconut milk for cream and a dairy-free sour cream alternative for the secret ingredient.

10. How can I make the soup spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced fresh jalapeños to the soup during cooking for an extra spicy twist.

Conclusion

This potato soup recipe is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days or family gatherings. The secret ingredient—sour cream—adds an unexpected creaminess that transforms the flavor. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a hearty, delicious bowl of soup in no time. Whether you keep it classic or customize it with your favorite add-ins, this recipe is sure to be a hit!