This Healthy Potato Soup is creamy, warm, and oh-so-comforting! Made with fresh potatoes, veggies, and a sprinkle of herbs, it’s a cozy dish that can brighten any day.
Who knew healthy could taste this good? I often serve it with a slice of crusty bread, and let’s just say, it disappears in no time. So good, even my picky eaters enjoy it! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for their creamy texture. If you’re looking for fewer carbs, sweet potatoes can be a great substitute!
Broth: Low-sodium vegetable broth keeps it heart-healthy. If you’re not vegetarian, chicken broth is a fine substitute for extra flavor.
Milk: Skim milk adds creaminess without the extra fat. Unsweetened almond milk works well too. Coconut milk is an interesting alternative if you want a hint of sweetness!
Herbs: Dried thyme brings a lovely aroma, but fresh thyme adds a punch! If you don’t have thyme, you can use rosemary or oregano to change up the flavor.
How Do I Get the Right Texture in My Soup?
The trick to achieving that creamy yet chunky texture is in the blending. Here’s how to get it just right:
- After simmering the soup, remove the bay leaf first to avoid bitter flavors.
- Blend only half of the soup with an immersion blender until smooth. This retains chunks for heartiness!
- If using a traditional blender, blend in small batches to avoid spills. Always allow the soup to cool slightly before blending.
For a smooth finish, gently stir in the milk after blending. This keeps the soup from boiling and helps you get that perfect cozy bowl!
How to Make Healthy Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Produce:
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Liquids:
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup skim milk or unsweetened almond milk
Seasonings:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Healthy Potato Soup takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 25 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at approximately 35 minutes until you’re enjoying a warm, hearty bowl of soup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onions, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and fragrant.
2. Add Garlic and Seasonings:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 more minute. This step releases wonderful flavors into the soup! Now, add the diced potatoes, dried thyme, bay leaf, and broth to the pot. Stir everything together.
3. Simmer Away:
Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Enjoy the delightful scents wafting through your kitchen!
4. Blend for Texture:
Once the potatoes are tender, remove the bay leaf. Using an immersion blender, blend about half of the soup until it’s nice and smooth, while leaving the rest chunky. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer half the soup to a traditional blender, blend until smooth, and then return it to the pot.
5. Stir in the Milk:
Add the skim milk or almond milk to the pot, then gently heat the soup until it’s warmed through. Be sure not to let it boil, as you want that creamy goodness to stay perfectly integrated.
6. Season and Serve:
Finally, taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Once you have your desired flavor, ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of black pepper if you like!
7. Enjoy Your Soup:
Serve hot with a slice of whole grain bread for a complete, healthy meal. Enjoy every soothing spoonful of this comforting potato soup!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like spinach, kale, or even bell peppers. Just chop them into small pieces and add them when you sauté the onions and carrots.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Let it cool completely and transfer to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
How Can I Make This Soup Thicker?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can add an extra potato or use a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir into the soup) while simmering. Blend additional soup for an even creamier texture!
