Potato soup is one of the coziest, most comforting dishes you can make. Its creamy texture, rich flavor, and hearty nature make it the ultimate go-to for chilly nights, family dinners, or even when you’re craving a simple, satisfying meal. But what takes potato soup from “yum” to “wow” is pairing it with the right sides, drinks, and flavors. Let’s dive in from the start: how to make potato soup and then explore all the best things to serve with it!
How to Make the Best Potato Soup
Before we talk about pairings, let’s get to the heart of the dish: making potato soup that’s as good as Grandma’s. This recipe is simple, flavorful, and foolproof.
Ingredients
The beauty of potato soup lies in its simplicity. Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, which means you can whip this up anytime.
- 4–5 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, bacon bits, green onions, or sour cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and dice the potatoes into evenly sized chunks to ensure they cook evenly.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Simmer the Potatoes: Add the potatoes and broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15–20 minutes.
- Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, but be careful—it’s hot!
- Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Top and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings.
Now that you’ve got your soup ready, let’s talk about what to serve with it.
The Nutritional Benefits of Potato Soup
Potato soup isn’t just comforting; it can be surprisingly nutritious, too. Potatoes are a great source of potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, especially if you leave the skins on. When you use broth made from scratch and add in vegetables like carrots or celery, you boost the soup’s nutrient content even more. If you’re watching your calorie intake, you can use low-fat milk or Greek yogurt instead of cream for a lighter version that doesn’t skimp on flavor. It’s proof that comfort food can also be good for you!
Why Pairing Matters: Turning Soup Into a Feast
Potato soup on its own is delicious, but pairing it with the right sides can turn a simple meal into a full-on dining experience. Think about it—creamy soups crave texture, flavor contrasts, and a little something to balance out all that richness. The right pairing can bring out the flavors in the soup and make your meal feel complete.
Let’s break it down:
- Texture: Crunchy or crisp sides contrast with the smoothness of the soup.
- Flavor balance: Tangy, spicy, or fresh flavors can cut through the creaminess.
- Hearty options: Add protein or carbs for a well-rounded meal.
Now, let’s get into some ideas!
The Best Breads to Pair With Potato Soup
Bread is probably the first thing that comes to mind when you think about pairing soup, and for good reason. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for dipping. Here are a few bread options that work like magic with potato soup:
Crusty French Bread
There’s something about tearing into a warm, crusty baguette that just feels right. The crispy exterior and soft interior are perfect for scooping up every last bit of soup.
Buttery Garlic Bread
Want to add a little pizzazz? Garlic bread brings buttery, garlicky goodness to the table. It’s especially great if you’re serving potato soup with cheese or bacon.
Homemade Dinner Rolls
Soft, fluffy dinner rolls are a classic choice. They’re easy to make (or grab from the store), and they complement the richness of the soup without stealing the show.
Salads That Brighten Up Your Bowl
Pairing a fresh salad with creamy potato soup is a great way to balance the meal. The crisp, tangy flavors cut through the heaviness of the soup and add some much-needed greens to your plate.
Classic Caesar Salad
A Caesar salad’s crunchy romaine, creamy dressing, and Parmesan cheese make it a natural match for potato soup. Bonus points if you make homemade croutons.
Apple and Arugula Salad
For something a little more unique, try a salad with thinly sliced apples, peppery arugula, and a light vinaigrette. The sweetness of the apples pairs beautifully with savory potato soup.
Cucumber and Tomato Salad
A simple cucumber and tomato salad with a splash of olive oil and vinegar adds a refreshing, zesty touch to your meal.
Hearty Protein Options
Galena Chicken: A Juicy and Flavorful Dinner Favorite
Sometimes, you want to add a little more substance to your meal. Potato soup pairs wonderfully with proteins that bring a variety of flavors and textures.
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Okay, this might be the ultimate comfort food pairing. A melty grilled cheese sandwich dipped into creamy potato soup? Heaven.
Pairing your soup with a sandwich can make for a satisfying meal. A Pepper Jack Honey Ham Sandwich offers a spicy-sweet flavor that contrasts nicely with the creamy soup.
Roasted Chicken
A simple roasted chicken is a hearty, protein-packed option that complements potato soup without overpowering it.
Drinks That Complete the meal
Pairing the right drink with potato soup can enhance the whole experience. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and fizzy or rich and indulgent, here are some ideas:
Sparkling Water with Lemon
For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a twist of lemon or lime is refreshing and palate-cleansing.
Apple Cider
If you’re eating potato soup in the fall, a warm mug of apple cider adds a cozy seasonal vibe to your meal.
Transform Your Potato Soup with Creative Mix-Ins
Sometimes, the best way to make a meal unforgettable is by adding a little something extra directly to the dish. Potato soup is incredibly versatile, and a few creative mix-ins can transform it into a new experience every time. Try stirring in roasted garlic for a sweet, nutty depth or mixing in shredded cheese for an ultra-creamy, cheesy version. Crumbled cooked chorizo adds a smoky, spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the soup’s mild flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, swirl in a dollop of pesto or even caramelized onions to create layers of flavor in every spoonful.
Potato Soup for Every Season
While potato soup might feel like a winter dish, it’s easy to adapt it for any season. During colder months, pair it with hearty sides like roasted vegetables or buttery biscuits to create a comforting, cozy meal. In the spring and summer, lighten things up by serving the soup with a crisp, refreshing salad topped with citrus or berries. You can even try a chilled version of potato soup (similar to vichyssoise) for a refreshing twist on warm-weather dining. Versatility is one of potato soup’s strongest qualities—it’s truly a year-round favorite.
Hosting a Potato Soup Night
If you’re hosting friends or family, consider making potato soup the star of a themed dinner. Create a DIY potato soup bar with a variety of toppings like shredded cheeses, crumbled bacon, chopped herbs, sour cream, and hot sauce. Offer different types of bread for dipping and side salads for variety. It’s an interactive, crowd-pleasing setup that’s perfect for casual gatherings or even game nights. Pair it with a couple of drink options—sparkling water for non-alcoholic fun and a light beer or wine for those who want to indulge—and you’ve got a low-stress dinner everyone will enjoy.
Savory Proteins to Add Substance
If you’re looking to turn potato soup into a heartier meal, adding a protein-rich side is the way to go.
Pan-seared salmon is an elegant choice. The crispy, flavorful crust on the salmon pairs wonderfully with the creamy soup, and the omega-3s are a bonus.
For something more casual, try crispy chicken tenders. Their crunchy coating adds a fun texture, and they’re perfect for dipping into the soup if you’re feeling adventurous.
A plate of smoky sausage links also works incredibly well. The bold, savory flavors of the sausage complement the mild taste of the soup, making every bite more exciting.
Vegetables That Pair with Potato Soup
Adding vegetables as a side is a great way to round out the meal, especially if you want to keep things light and nutritious.
Roasted Brussels sprouts are a fantastic option. Their caramelized edges and slightly bitter taste contrast beautifully with the rich, creamy soup.
Honey-glazed carrots bring a touch of sweetness to the table. They’re easy to make and look gorgeous next to a bowl of potato soup.
Don’t overlook roasted asparagus, either. Its earthy flavor and crispy tips add an elegant touch to your meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best way to store leftover potato soup?
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to keep it creamy.
Can potato soup be frozen?
Yes, but keep in mind that soups with cream can separate when frozen. To fix this, blend the soup again while reheating for a smooth texture.
What’s a good vegan version of potato soup?
Use vegetable broth and replace heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. Pair it with vegan-friendly sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh kale salad.
Conclusion
Potato soup is a comforting classic that deserves all the love, but the right pairings can make it truly unforgettable. Whether it’s crusty bread, a zesty salad, or a refreshing drink, the options are endless. The next time you make a pot of potato soup, try pairing it with some of these ideas to create a meal that’s balanced, flavorful, and satisfying.
Have your own favorite potato soup pairings? Share them in the comments—I’d love to hear your ideas!