This Leftover Mashed Potato Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Made with creamy mashed potatoes, you just add some broth and veggies for a hearty meal. Yum!
If you’re like me, you might make extra mashed potatoes just for this soup! It’s so comforting and easy to whip up; perfect for chilly days when you want something cozy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Leftover Mashed Potatoes: These are the star of the soup! If you don’t have leftover mashed potatoes, you can use store-bought mashed potatoes. Try to find ones without too many added ingredients.
Broth: Chicken broth provides a savory depth, but you can easily swap it for vegetable broth if you prefer a vegetarian option. Homemade broth is great if you have it on hand!
Milk or Heavy Cream: For creaminess, standard milk works well, but heavy cream will give you a richer texture. You can use non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk for a lighter, dairy-free option.
Onion and Garlic: These add aromatic flavors. Leeks can be a nice substitute for onions if you’re looking for a milder taste. Shallots also work well in this soup!
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor. If you’re not a fan, feel free to use Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even grated Parmesan for a unique twist.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Soup Consistency?
The consistency of your soup is important! If you prefer thick soup, start with less broth. You can always add more later. Here are some tips:
- Stir the mashed potatoes in well as you add broth. This helps break them up and blend everything smoothly.
- Simmer on low until hot, then assess. If it’s too thick, just add more broth a little at a time.
- Blending the soup with an immersion blender can create a super creamy texture if you prefer.
Feel free to adjust the broth according to your taste. Enjoy making your soup just right for you!
Leftover Mashed Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
- Crumbled cooked bacon or bacon bits (optional, for garnish)
- Croutons or torn toasted bread, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup comes together in about 15 minutes of prep and around 20 minutes of cooking. In total, you can have a warm, comforting bowl of soup in about 35 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner using leftover mashed potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent and soft, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant.
2. Mix in the Mashed Potatoes:
Stir in the leftover mashed potatoes into the pot with the onion and garlic. Make sure to mix them well so they start to heat up.
3. Add the Broth:
Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while stirring. You have the option to add it all at once or in parts—just do it based on how thick you want your soup to be.
4. Simmer the Soup:
Bring the soup to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until everything is heated through. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes.
5. Make It Creamy:
Add in the milk or heavy cream and the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese fully melts and everything is mixed together creamy and smooth. Keep it on the heat for another minute.
6. Season:
Season your soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Don’t be shy; it’s important to season according to your preference!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Once your soup is ready, ladle it into bowls. Top each bowl with extra shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon if you’d like, fresh thyme, and croutons or bits of toasted bread for some crunch.
8. Enjoy:
Serve hot and enjoy your cozy bowl of leftover mashed potato soup! It’s comforting, fulfilling, and a perfect way to enjoy your leftovers.
Can I Use Instant Mashed Potatoes Instead?
Yes! If you’re in a pinch, you can use instant mashed potatoes. Just prepare them according to the package instructions, then follow the soup recipe using the prepared instant mixture in place of leftover mashed potatoes.
How Should I Store Leftover Soup?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Add for More Flavor?
For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like rosemary or parsley. You can also boost the savory notes with a splash of Worcestershire sauce or some sautéed mushrooms added during cooking!
