Introduction
There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of Cream of Mashed Potato Soup on a chilly day. This hearty and creamy soup is the perfect way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a delicious meal that’s ready in minutes. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a cozy dinner, or a creative way to reduce food waste, this recipe is a must-try!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to love Cream of Mashed Potato Soup, and here are just a few:
- Reduces Food Waste: This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover mashed potatoes, turning them into something new and exciting.
- Quick & Easy: With minimal ingredients and a simple cooking process, this soup comes together in no time.
- Rich & Creamy: The combination of mashed potatoes, milk, and cheese creates a luxuriously smooth texture.
- Filling & Satisfying: The addition of ham and cheese makes this soup a complete and satisfying meal.
- Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, adding extra seasonings, vegetables, or protein options.
How to Make Cream of Mashed Potato Soup
Making Cream of Mashed Potato Soup is incredibly easy. Just follow these simple steps:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups milk (adjust as needed for consistency)
- 4 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 2 cups cubed fully cooked ham
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (or more to taste)
Directions:
- Heat the Milk: In a large saucepan, warm the milk over medium heat. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Incorporate Mashed Potatoes: Slowly stir in the mashed potatoes, mixing until the soup reaches a smooth consistency. Add more milk as needed to achieve your preferred thickness.
- Add the Ham: Stir in the cubed ham, distributing it evenly throughout the soup.
- Simmer: Cook for about 5-10 minutes, or until the ham is heated through and the soup is steaming.
- Season to Taste: Add salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Finish with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the soup before serving, allowing it to melt into creamy goodness.
How to Serve Cream of Mashed Potato Soup
For the best experience, serve this soup hot and fresh. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Top with Extra Cheese: A little extra shredded Cheddar adds more flavor and richness.
- Garnish with Green Onions: A sprinkle of chopped green onions adds freshness and a pop of color.
- Add Crunch with Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons bring a delightful crunch to each bite.
- Pair with Bread: Serve alongside crusty bread or a warm dinner roll for a satisfying meal.
- Serve with a Salad: A light side salad balances out the richness of the soup.
How to Store and Reheat
If you have leftovers, don’t worry—this soup stores well!
- Refrigeration: Store any remaining soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. If the soup thickens too much, simply add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
- Freezing (Optional): While you can freeze this soup, note that the texture may change slightly upon reheating. If freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Tips for the Best Cream of Mashed Potato Soup
- Use Full-Fat Milk: For an ultra-creamy texture, opt for whole milk or even half-and-half.
- Adjust the Thickness: Add more milk for a thinner soup or more mashed potatoes for a thicker consistency.
- Enhance the Flavor: Try adding minced garlic, sautéed onions, or a dash of smoked paprika for a deeper taste.
- Swap the Ham: Not a fan of ham? Substitute it with cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or even crumbled sausage.
- Make it Extra Cheesy: If you love cheese, stir in extra Cheddar or add a blend of cheeses like Parmesan or Monterey Jack.
Variations
Looking to switch things up? Try these delicious variations:
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the ham and add vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn for extra nutrients and texture.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free milk alternative (such as almond or oat milk) and a plant-based cheese substitute.
- Loaded Potato Soup: Top with crispy bacon, sour cream, and chopped chives for a loaded baked potato twist.
FAQs
Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftovers?
Yes! If you don’t have leftover mashed potatoes, you can make fresh ones. Just be sure to adjust the milk quantity to achieve the right consistency.
Can I freeze creamy potato soup?
While you can freeze it, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. For the best taste and consistency, it’s recommended to enjoy the soup fresh or store it in the fridge.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
For a more flavorful soup, consider adding ingredients like roasted garlic, caramelized onions, thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
More Comforting Soup Recipes
If you love Cream of Mashed Potato Soup, you’ll enjoy these other cozy and delicious soup recipes: White Bean Tuscan Soup Recipe
Enjoy this comforting, creamy, and satisfying Cream of Mashed Potato Soup—the perfect way to turn leftovers into a delicious meal!