This cozy soup turns your leftover mashed potatoes into a creamy delight! Just add broth, some veggies, and a few seasonings, and you’ll have a warm bowl of comfort.
If you ever wanted to make leftover potatoes feel special, this is it. I love to top mine with crispy bacon bits or a sprinkle of cheese—nothing like a little extra yum! 🥔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Leftover Mashed Potatoes: The star of this soup! Make sure they are nicely seasoned. If you don’t have leftovers, you can quickly make fresh mashed potatoes. I love adding a little garlic or herbs to them for extra flavor.
Broth: Use chicken or vegetable broth to create a tasty base. If you prefer a low-sodium option, go for that to control the saltiness in your soup. Homemade broth is fantastic if you have it on hand!
Milk or Cream: This adds creaminess. You can use whole milk, half-and-half, or even a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk if you want it lighter.
Crispy Bacon: This adds a nice crunch and flavor. You can skip it for a vegetarian option or substitute with sautéed mushrooms or croutons for texture.
How Do You Make Creamy Soup Without Lumps?
To ensure a smooth and creamy soup, it’s important to properly mix the ingredients. When adding the leftover mashed potatoes, do so gradually while whisking to break up any lumps. Here’s how:
- Start with low heat and gently melt the butter in the pot.
- Add the onions and garlic to sauté until soft. This really brings out their flavors.
- Gradually stir in the mashed potatoes with the broth while whisking. This helps eliminate lumps.
- Keep the heat moderate to allow the flavors to meld without boiling.
Remember to adjust the soup’s consistency by adding more broth or milk as needed. This way, you can customize it to your liking!
Leftover Mashed Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped (optional for garnish)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful soup takes about 10 minutes of prep time and approximately 15-20 minutes to cook, making it a great quick meal. In just about half an hour, you’ll have a delicious soup ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté everything together for about 3-5 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant. This will create a wonderful base flavor for your soup!
2. Add the Mashed Potatoes:
Next, add your leftover mashed potatoes into the pot. Gradually stir in the chicken or vegetable broth, using a whisk to combine everything smoothly and break up any lumps in the potatoes. This is where the magic begins!
3. Incorporate the Creaminess:
Pour in the milk or cream, and stir again until the mixture is fully blended and creamy. This gives the soup a luscious texture that you’re going to love!
4. Heat It Up:
Allow the soup to heat on medium-low, stirring frequently. After about 8-10 minutes, the soup should be warmed through and slightly thickened. If it’s too thick for your liking, feel free to add more broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
5. Add Cheese and Season:
Now it’s time to add the flavor! Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and fully incorporates. Season your soup with salt and black pepper to taste—don’t forget to taste as you go!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot in bowls and top with optional crispy bacon bits, extra cheddar cheese, and chopped fresh chives or green onions for a lovely finish. Enjoy your comforting bowl of leftover mashed potato soup!
This soup is a comforting and easy way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a rich and delicious meal! Perfect for a chilly day!
Can I Use Fresh Mashed Potatoes Instead of Leftovers?
Absolutely! If you don’t have leftovers, you can make fresh mashed potatoes. Just prepare them with your favorite seasonings, and use them in this recipe just as you would with leftovers.
How Can I Thicken the Soup Further?
If you prefer an even thicker soup, you can mash the soup with an immersion blender for a few seconds after heating. Alternatively, you can mix a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) into the soup and simmer until thickened.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you want to skip the bacon, consider sautéing mushrooms for a savory alternative, or use crispy fried onions for a nice crunch! You can also omit it completely for a vegetarian version.
How Should I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze it, make sure to let it cool completely first, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container, where it will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, just thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop!
