Potato soup is the ultimate comfort food—warm, creamy, and satisfying. But what if you could make it with just four simple ingredients? This 4 ingredient potato soup is perfect for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or whenever you need a quick, hearty meal. It’s budget-friendly, easy to make, and requires minimal prep. Whether you’re a beginner cook or just looking for a simple dish, this recipe is a must-try!
Table of Contents
Ingredients Needed for 4 Ingredient Potato Soup
One of the best things about this 4 ingredient potato soup is its simplicity. You don’t need a long list of expensive ingredients—just four staples you probably already have in your kitchen!
The Essential Four Ingredients
- Potatoes (4-5 medium-sized, about 2 pounds)
- The heart of the soup, potatoes provide the creamy and hearty texture. Russet potatoes are ideal because they break down well and create a velvety consistency. Yukon Golds are another excellent choice for a naturally buttery flavor.
- Milk (2-3 cups, depending on desired thickness)
- This adds creaminess to the soup. Whole milk works best, but you can use 2% or even heavy cream for a richer taste. For a dairy-free option, unsweetened almond or oat milk works well.
- Butter (2 tablespoons)
- Butter enhances the richness and provides a smooth mouthfeel. Salted or unsalted butter can be used, depending on your preference.
- Salt (to taste, about 1 teaspoon)
- Since this is a minimalist soup, seasoning is crucial! Salt enhances the natural flavors of the potatoes and ties everything together. You can adjust the amount based on your taste preferences.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
While this soup is delicious with just four ingredients, you can customize it with a few extras:
- Black pepper – Adds a subtle heat and depth to the flavor.
- Garlic powder or onion powder – Enhances the soup’s savory profile.
- Shredded cheese – A sprinkle of cheddar or Parmesan on top makes it extra comforting.
- Green onions or chives – A fresh garnish for a pop of color and taste.
Now that you have your ingredients ready let’s move on to how to make this easy, creamy potato soup!
How to Make 4 Ingredient Potato Soup
Now that we have our simple ingredients ready, it’s time to make this delicious, creamy 4 ingredient potato soup! This recipe is incredibly easy and takes about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Step 1: Preparing the Potatoes
- Wash, peel, and cut the potatoes into small cubes (about 1-inch pieces).
- The smaller the pieces, the faster they will cook.
Step 2: Cooking the Potatoes
- Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water (just enough to submerge them).
- Add about 1 teaspoon of salt to season them while they cook.
- Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let them simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Once cooked, drain the water, leaving about ½ cup of liquid in the pot (this helps with the soup’s consistency).
Step 3: Mashing the Potatoes
- Use a potato masher or a fork to mash the potatoes directly in the pot. If you prefer a chunkier soup, leave some potato pieces whole.
- For an extra smooth consistency, you can use an immersion blender.
Step 4: Adding the Milk and Butter
- Pour in 2-3 cups of milk, depending on how thick you like your soup.
- Add 2 tablespoons of butter and stir until melted.
- Return the pot to low heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
- Add more salt if needed and a dash of black pepper (optional).
- If the soup is too thick, add a little more milk to thin it out.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it as is or top with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, green onions, or crispy bacon bits.
This simple, creamy, and cozy soup is perfect for chilly evenings or quick lunches!
Variations and Customizations
One of the best things about this 4 ingredient potato soup is how easy it is to customize! Whether you’re looking to make it vegan, add extra protein, or enhance the flavor, here are some simple variations to try.
Making It Vegan or Dairy-Free
If you’re avoiding dairy, you can still enjoy this creamy soup with a few swaps:
- Milk Alternative: Use unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk instead of dairy milk.
- Butter Substitute: Replace butter with vegan butter or a small amount of olive oil for richness.
Adding Protein or Extra Vegetables
Want to make this soup more filling? Try these additions:
- Cheese: Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan for a cheesy twist.
- Bacon or Ham: Add crispy bacon bits or diced ham for a smoky, salty flavor.
- Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken makes this a heartier meal.
- Vegetables: Toss in diced carrots, celery, or corn for extra texture and nutrients.
Boosting the Flavor
Although this soup is delicious in its simplest form, a few small tweaks can enhance the taste:
- Garlic or Onion Powder: Adds a subtle depth of flavor.
- Black Pepper or Smoked Paprika: A pinch of either can give the soup a mild kick.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped parsley, chives, or green onions for freshness.
Try serving it alongside this Hashbrown Casserole for a double dose of potato goodness.
These simple variations let you tailor the soup to your taste, making it even more delicious!
Tips for the Best 4 Ingredient Potato Soup
Even though this 4 ingredient potato soup is simple, a few cooking tricks can help you achieve the perfect creamy and flavorful texture. Here are some tips to make your soup even better!
1. Choose the Right Potatoes
- Russet potatoes work best for a creamy soup because they break down easily.
- Yukon Gold potatoes have a naturally buttery taste and hold their shape better if you prefer a chunkier soup.
2. Don’t Overcook the Potatoes
- Cook them just until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes). Overcooking can make the soup too starchy.
3. Save Some Cooking Water
- Keep about ½ cup of the water after draining the potatoes. This helps maintain the soup’s consistency.
4. Mash or Blend for Desired Texture
- For a chunky soup, Mash the potatoes lightly with a potato masher.
- For a smooth soup, Use an immersion blender for a silky finish.
5. Adjust Thickness as Needed
- If the soup is too thick, add more milk to thin it out.
- If it’s too thin, let it simmer a little longer to thicken naturally.
6. Taste and Season Well
- Salt is key! Start with 1 teaspoon and adjust as needed.
- A little black pepper, garlic powder, or smoked paprika can add extra depth.
7. Let the Flavors Blend
- Let the soup simmer on low heat for 5 minutes after adding the milk and butter. This helps the flavors meld together.
8. Add Toppings for Extra Flavor
- Even though this is a 4 ingredient recipe, adding cheese, green onions, or bacon can make it even more delicious!
By following these tips, you’ll get a perfectly creamy, flavorful potato soup every time!
What to Serve with Potato Soup
This 4 ingredient potato soup is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right side dish can make your meal even better. Here are some great options to serve alongside your soup.
1. Bread and Rolls
- Crusty French Bread – Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
- Garlic Bread – Adds a crispy, buttery, and garlicky contrast.
- Biscuits – Soft, flaky biscuits make a comforting addition.
2. Sandwiches
- Grilled Cheese – The classic pairing! The crispy, cheesy sandwich complements the creamy soup.
- Ham and Cheese Melt – A warm, savory option to make your meal heartier.
- Turkey and Avocado Wrap – A lighter choice that balances the richness of the soup.
3. Salads
- Simple Green Salad – A fresh green salad or a Loaded Baked Potato Salad pairs beautifully.
- Caesar Salad – The crisp romaine and tangy dressing pair well with the soup.
- Apple Walnut Salad – A sweet and crunchy contrast to the savory soup.
4. Protein Additions
- Bacon-Wrapped Chicken – A flavorful, protein-packed option.
- Grilled Sausages – Adds a smoky, hearty contrast.
- Oven-Roasted Salmon – A healthy, light addition to the meal.
5. Extra Toppings for the Soup
If you want to keep it simple, just add toppings to your bowl of soup:
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan)
- Crumbled bacon for crunch and smoky flavor
- Chopped green onions or chives for freshness
- A drizzle of sour cream for extra creaminess
Whether you choose bread, sandwiches, salads, or toppings, these sides will make your potato soup meal even more satisfying!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers of this 4 ingredient potato soup, don’t worry—it stores and reheats beautifully! Follow these simple tips to keep it fresh and delicious.
How to Store Potato Soup
- In the Refrigerator:
- Let the soup cool completely before storing it.
- Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- In the Freezer:
- Dairy-based soups can separate when frozen, so freezing is not ideal. However, if you plan to freeze it:
- Store the soup without milk (just the cooked potatoes and broth).
- Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- When reheating, add fresh milk to restore creaminess.
How to Reheat Potato Soup
- On the Stovetop:
- Heat on low to medium heat, stirring frequently.
- Add a little extra milk if the soup is too thick.
- In the Microwave:
- Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until hot.
- Be careful—milk-based soups can splatter in the microwave!
How to Prevent Soup from Curdling When Reheating
- Always heat slowly and avoid boiling the soup.
- Stir frequently to keep the texture smooth.
- If the soup has separated, whisk it gently or blend it to restore creaminess.
Following these tips will ensure your potato soup stays creamy and delicious even after storing and reheating!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can make it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat slowly on the stovetop, adding a little milk if needed.
2. Can I use instant potatoes instead of fresh potatoes?
While fresh potatoes give the best flavor and texture, you can use instant mashed potatoes in a pinch. Just mix them with milk and butter to create a creamy consistency.
3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Add diced potatoes and a little water to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until soft. Mash the potatoes, add milk and butter, and stir well.
4. How can I make this soup thicker?
- Use less milk for a thicker consistency.
- Mash more potatoes or blend the soup for extra creaminess.
- Stir in a little cheese or cornstarch slurry to thicken it.
5. Can I make this soup without butter?
Yes! The butter adds richness, but you can skip it or replace it with olive oil for a dairy-free version.
Conclusion
This 4 ingredient potato soup is proof that simple recipes can be incredibly delicious. With just potatoes, milk, butter, and salt, you can create a warm, creamy, and comforting meal in under 30 minutes. Whether you enjoy it as is or customize it with extra ingredients, this easy soup is perfect for busy nights or cozy weekends.
Give it a try today—you’ll love how effortless and satisfying it is!