This delicious and creamy potato soup recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Using canned potatoes cuts down on prep time significantly, allowing you to enjoy a comforting bowl of soup in under 30 minutes! This potato soup recipe with canned potatoes is surprisingly flavorful and satisfying, proving that convenience doesn't have to compromise on taste.
Why Use Canned Potatoes for Soup?
While using fresh potatoes offers a different texture and arguably more nuanced flavor, canned potatoes provide undeniable convenience. This is especially beneficial when you're short on time or need a quick and easy meal solution. Canned potatoes are already cooked, eliminating the need for peeling, chopping, and boiling. This easy potato soup recipe relies on this convenience to deliver a hearty meal without extensive prep work. The resulting creamy texture is also surprisingly similar to that achieved with freshly cooked potatoes.
Ingredients for Speedy Potato Soup
To make this canned potato soup recipe, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) diced potatoes, drained
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup milk or cream (heavy cream for extra richness)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional toppings: bacon bits, chives, shredded cheese, croutons
Step-by-Step Instructions: A Simple Potato Soup Recipe
This simple potato soup recipe is incredibly easy to follow. Here's a step-by-step guide:
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Sauté Aromatics: Melt butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the drained canned potatoes, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Simmer and Blend (Optional): Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. For a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup to your desired consistency. Alternatively, carefully transfer portions of the soup to a regular blender and blend before returning it to the pot. Caution: Always vent the lid when blending hot liquids.
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Stir in Cream: Stir in the milk or cream and heat through. Do not boil.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as bacon bits, chives, shredded cheese, or croutons.
Tips for the Best Canned Potato Soup
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Don't overcook: Overcooked canned potato soup can become mushy. Simmering for 10-15 minutes is usually sufficient.
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Season to taste: Adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference. Consider adding other herbs and spices like rosemary, bay leaf, or paprika for additional flavor complexity.
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Spice it up: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
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Creamy variations: Experiment with different types of milk or cream to achieve your desired level of creaminess. Coconut milk can add a unique flavor profile.
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Thicken it up: If your soup is too thin, you can thicken it by adding a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) or a roux (a mixture of equal parts butter and flour).
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
This information is approximate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250-300 |
| Protein | 8-10g |
| Fat | 10-15g |
| Carbohydrates | 30-35g |
| Fiber | 3-4g |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use different types of canned potatoes?
A: Yes! You can use different types of canned potatoes, like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, depending on your preference. The cooking time might vary slightly.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
This creamy potato soup recipe with canned potatoes is a versatile and delicious meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!