4 Ingredient Potato Soup

There’s something magical about a soup that requires almost no ingredients but still delivers big on flavour. Potato soup, for example. It’s one of those dishes that, no matter how simple it is, will always taste like home. And the best part? You only need four ingredients to make a cozy, satisfying bowl. Don’t let its simplicity fool you—it’s packed with flavour and comfort, just waiting to be enjoyed.

Ingredients & Substitutions

4 Ingredient Potato Soup starts with potatoes. But not just any potatoes. You need starchy ones, like Russets, because they break down beautifully when cooked, giving you that velvety texture you crave in a soup. The second key ingredient is butter. This adds that rich, creamy base that gives the soup depth. Next, you’ll need chicken broth—or vegetable broth if you’re going for a vegetarian version. Broth is the foundation of your flavour, so make sure it’s something you enjoy. Finally, salt. It’s simple, but it’s essential. You can’t skip it. Without salt, this soup won’t be anything near as delicious as it could be.

Looking for substitutions? For a dairy-free version, swap the butter with olive oil or a non-dairy butter. If you’re avoiding gluten, check that your broth is gluten-free. And if you’re a fan of adding extra flavor, throw in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary—totally optional, but it’ll elevate your 4 Ingredient Potato Soup to another level.

Step-by-Step Instructions

4 Ingredient Potato Soup starts by peeling and dicing the potatoes. Don’t worry about them being perfect cubes—rustic chunks work just as well. You’re going for the texture, not the looks. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, toss in the diced potatoes and give them a quick stir to coat them in that butter. Let them cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let the potatoes cook for about 20 minutes. You want them tender, almost falling apart, so don’t rush this part. Check the potatoes by poking them with a fork; they should give way with no resistance. If they’re still firm, give them another 5 minutes.

When the potatoes are done, it’s time for the fun part: mashing. Use a potato masher, fork, or immersion blender to mash the potatoes directly in the pot. For a chunkier soup, don’t overdo it. If you like it smooth, go ahead and blend it until it’s velvety. Once the texture is to your liking, season with salt to taste. The soup might need a little more salt than you expect—it’s that final touch that brings everything together.

Cooking Techniques & Science

The magic of 4 Ingredient Potato Soup is in how the potatoes break down. Russet potatoes have a high starch content, which makes them perfect for creating that thick, creamy texture without needing any cream. The starch releases into the broth, naturally thickening it. That’s why it’s important not to skip the simmering step. The slow cooking allows the potatoes to break down and give their flavour to the broth. If you were to cook the potatoes too quickly, the texture wouldn’t be as smooth and velvety.

Using butter in the beginning is crucial. Butter isn’t just for flavour—when it coats the potatoes, it gives them a slight caramelisation, adding a subtle depth of flavour that’s hard to replicate with any other fat. If you’re looking to get the most out of your ingredients, don’t skip this step.

For those interested in using an immersion blender, know that it’s one of the best tools for this soup. It lets you blend the potatoes directly in the pot without transferring everything to a blender, keeping the soup hot and easy to manage. Plus, it avoids making an extra mess.

Serving & Pairing Suggestions

4 Ingredient Potato Soup is, in essence, a comfort food. It’s simple, but it’s hearty and satisfying. For serving, garnish with a dollop of sour cream or a handful of shredded cheese. Fresh chives or crispy bacon bits can also bring a nice crunch and contrast to the creamy texture of the soup. A sprinkle of black pepper on top won’t hurt either.

Pairing-wise, this soup works great with crusty bread. A slice of sourdough or a warm baguette will let you soak up every last bit of the broth. Want to add a little extra to your meal? Pair it with a crisp green salad. The freshness of the greens will balance the richness of the soup.

Conclusion

The beauty of 4 Ingredient Potato Soup is in its simplicity. It proves that with just a few key ingredients, you can create something deeply satisfying. There’s no need for elaborate techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Just potatoes, butter, broth, and salt—put them together, and you’ve got a meal that’s as comforting as it gets. It’s a reminder that great food doesn’t always need to be complicated.

Want to jazz it up? Throw in some cooked sausage for a meaty version or add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist. This recipe is flexible, allowing you to make it your while still keeping it easy and delicious.

FAQs

What can I use if I don’t have chicken broth?

If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth works just as well. You could even use water in a pinch, though the flavour won’t be as rich.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! 4 Ingredient Potato Soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes nicely, so you can make a big batch and have it ready for later.

How can I make the soup thicker?

If you like your soup thicker, simply mash the potatoes more. You can also simmer it for a little longer to reduce the broth and concentrate the flavours.

Can I make this soup without butter?

Yes, you can use olive oil or any other fat you prefer. The butter gives the soup its richness, but other fats can still provide a nice flavour base.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Absolutely. Carrots, celery, or leeks would work wonderfully in this soup. Just be sure to dice them small enough so they cook quickly, along with the potatoes.