Mashed potato soup: a quick and easy way to use up leftovers

Absolutely! Mashed potatoes provide a fantastic base for creating a velvety, flavorful potato soup. This ingenious technique not only saves time and effort but also ensures a consistently creamy texture.

Benefits of Using Mashed Potatoes

Convenience: Leftover mashed potatoes eliminate the need to boil and mash potatoes from scratch, significantly reducing preparation time.

Creamy Texture: Mashed potatoes lend a naturally smooth and velvety texture to the soup, eliminating the need for additional thickeners.

Flavor Enhancement: The seasonings and flavors already present in the mashed potatoes contribute to the overall taste of the soup.

How to Make Potato Soup from Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 4 cups leftover mashed potatoes
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup milk or cream (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Toppings of your choice (e.g., bacon, cheese, chives)

Instructions:

1. Heat the broth: In a large pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the boiling broth and sauté until softened.
3. Add the mashed potatoes: Stir in the leftover mashed potatoes and reduce heat to medium-low.
4. Thin with milk (optional): If desired, add milk or cream to achieve a thinner consistency.
5. Season to taste: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
6. Simmer: Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
7. Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite toppings.

Variations

Roasted Garlic Potato Soup: Add roasted garlic to the sautéed onions and garlic for an extra layer of flavor.
Cheesy Potato Soup: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite cheese blend for a creamy and indulgent soup.
Bacon Potato Soup: Add crispy bacon bits or cooked bacon slices to the soup for a smoky and savory twist.
Spicy Potato Soup: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the soup for a kick.
Creamy Leek Potato Soup: Sauté sliced leeks with the onions and garlic for a delicate and aromatic flavor.

Tips for Success

• Use homemade mashed potatoes: Freshly made mashed potatoes will yield the best flavor and texture.
• Avoid overboiling: Overboiling can break down the mashed potatoes and result in a grainy texture.
• Thin with warm broth: If the soup becomes too thick, gradually add warm chicken or vegetable broth until desired consistency is achieved.
• Use a blender for a smoother texture: If you prefer a velvety smooth soup, blend it with an immersion blender or transfer it to a regular blender in batches.

Leftover Storage

Potato soup made from mashed potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

The Bottom Line

Transforming leftover mashed potatoes into creamy potato soup is a culinary game-changer. It not only reduces food waste but also creates a delicious and versatile dish that can be customized to your taste preferences. Embrace this kitchen hack and enjoy the convenience and flavor of mashed potato soup anytime.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes to make potato soup?
A: Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes, but the texture may be slightly different from using homemade mashed potatoes.

Q: Can I freeze potato soup made from mashed potatoes?
A: Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: What can I serve with potato soup made from mashed potatoes?
A: Potato soup can be served with a variety of toppings, such as bacon, cheese, chives, or a side of crusty bread or crackers.