This creamy Leftover Mashed Potato Soup is the perfect way to use up extra mashed potatoes. It’s rich, warm, and full of flavor, making it a comfort food favorite!
Honestly, there’s something cozy about sipping a warm bowl of this soup! I love tossing in some cheese and bacon for an extra treat. Who wouldn’t want a bit of indulgence on a chilly day?
The best part? It’s super easy to whip up! Just add broth, heat it up, and blend. What could be better than a quick, yummy dinner with hardly any effort?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Leftover Mashed Potatoes: Ideal for this soup, they bring a creamy texture and flavor. If you don’t have leftovers, you can make fresh mashed potatoes. Just boil, mash with butter and milk, and they’ll work perfectly!
Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth adds depth. If you want a lighter soup, consider using low-sodium broth or even water with a splash of soy sauce for a boost. Homemade broth can be a great substitute, too!
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a delicious crunch. If you’re avoiding pork, turkey bacon or even pancetta are good alternatives. For a vegetarian option, skip it altogether and add some smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds flavor. You can swap it for mozzarella for a milder taste or use a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for a vegan option.
Milk or Cream: This adds creaminess. For a lighter version, use low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk. Coconut milk is a great non-dairy substitute, lending a unique flavor.
How Do I Blend the Soup Smoothly Without Making a Mess?
A smooth soup is key to a great texture. Here are some tips to blend your soup without spills:
- If using an immersion blender, keep it submerged in the soup while blending to prevent splatters.
- When using a countertop blender, let the soup cool a bit and blend in small batches. Fill the blender only halfway to avoid overflow.
- Cover the blender lid with a kitchen towel while blending to catch any splatters.
- Blend until silky smooth; you can do a taste test by checking the consistency!
These steps will help ensure you have a creamy and smooth soup, perfect for servings!
How to Make Leftover Mashed Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick process—just sauté, simmer, blend, and serve! Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which will take about 4-5 minutes. Don’t forget to add the minced garlic for the last minute of cooking so it gives off its beautiful aroma!
2. Add the Broth:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring gently as you do. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer—this means you should see small bubbles starting to come up from the bottom of the pot!
3. Mix in the Mashed Potatoes:
It’s time to add the star ingredient! Stir in your leftover mashed potatoes. Use a whisk or a spoon to break up any large lumps. Let this cook for about 5 minutes, so everything gets nice and warm and mixes well together.
4. Add Milk and Thyme:
Next, pour in the milk or cream, and sprinkle the thyme in. Stir it all together well and let the soup simmer for another 5-7 minutes. This is when it will start to thicken a little!
5. Blend Until Smooth:
If you have an immersion blender, that’s perfect! Simply blend the soup right in the pot until it’s smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, carefully blend the soup in batches, and then return it back to the pot.
6. Stir in the Good Stuff:
Now for the delicious additions! Stir in the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the warm soup. Season with salt and pepper to your liking!
7. Dish and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into individual bowls. Feel free to sprinkle a bit more cheddar cheese, some bacon bits, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top for a lovely finishing touch!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve this cozy soup warm alongside some crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy every creamy, hearty spoonful!
This Leftover Mashed Potato Soup is not just a way to use up leftovers; it’s a delightful dish in its own right, creating a rich and comforting experience perfect for any day. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Fresh Mashed Potatoes Instead of Leftovers?
Absolutely! If you don’t have leftovers, you can make a fresh batch of mashed potatoes just for this soup. Boil or steam some potatoes, mash them with butter and milk, and use them as you would the leftovers.
How Can I Thicken the Soup More?
If you’d like a thicker consistency, you can reduce the amount of broth or add a slurry made from 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir it in while simmering until the soup thickens to your liking!
Can I Freeze Leftover Mashed Potato Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
What Can I Serve with This Soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a simple green salad. You can also add garlic bread for an extra treat!