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–+ servings
Leila Moreau

Potato Soup — Cozy, Reliable, Weeknight-Ready

A velvety, cheesy, one-pot soup perfect for busy weeknights. This potato soup balances rich cheddar, creamy potatoes, smoky paprika, and bright scallions for a cozy, satisfying bowl that keeps beautifully for leftovers.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 310
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 Tbsp butter or olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and small-diced
  • 4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken stock
  • 1 cup milk (or oat/almond milk)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar, plus extra for topping
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp white or black pepper
  • 1 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1 Tbsp cornstarch + 1 Tbsp water (optional)
  • 3 scallions, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup crisp turkey bacon-style crumble (optional)
  • 1–2 tsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar

Equipment

  • 5–6 qt Dutch oven Prevents scorching and evenly distributes heat.
  • immersion blender or potato masher Optional, to adjust creaminess.
  • silicone spatula For stirring and scraping after dairy is added.
  • measuring cups & spoons
  • cutting board and knife

Method
 

  1. Melt butter over medium heat in a Dutch oven. Add chopped onion and a pinch of salt; cook until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
  2. Add diced potatoes and stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are fork-tender, about 10–12 minutes.
  3. Stir in milk gently. Return just to a simmer, avoiding boiling to prevent curdling.
  4. If using, stir in cornstarch slurry and simmer for 1 minute until slightly thickened and glossy.
  5. Turn off heat. Stir in sour cream, cheddar, smoked paprika, pepper, and most of the scallions. Adjust seasoning with salt.
  6. Brighten soup with lemon juice or vinegar. Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra cheddar, scallions, and turkey bacon if using.

Nutrition

Calories: 310kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 10gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 640mgPotassium: 910mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 640IUVitamin C: 13mgCalcium: 220mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Make it ahead, freeze it, or load it up with toppings like turkey bacon and extra cheddar. Use dairy-free swaps or add chicken or sausage for a heartier bowl. Great with salad, bread, or even over rice!

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