Are you craving a delicious, budget-friendly meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day? Look no further than this incredibly simple yet mouthwatering Dollar Stretcher Potato Soup! With just a handful of affordable ingredients and minimal cooking skills, you can transform ordinary potatoes into a creamy, satisfying dish that will have your family begging for seconds. Whether you're a busy parent, a college student on a budget, or simply someone who loves hearty, comforting meals, this recipe is about to become your new go-to culinary lifesaver.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Peel the potatoes thoroughly and dice them into uniform 1/2-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Finely chop the onion, creating small, consistent pieces that will distribute evenly throughout the soup.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat, allowing it to coat the bottom of the pan without burning.
- Add the chopped onions to the melted butter and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, releasing their sweet aroma (approximately 3-4 minutes).
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot with the sautéed onions, stirring to coat them with the butter.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring the potatoes are completely submerged.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until potatoes are tender and can be easily mashed with a fork.
- Using a potato masher or the back of a wooden spoon, partially mash some of the potatoes to create a thicker, creamier texture while leaving some chunks intact.
- Slowly stir in the milk, creating a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning gradually and tasting as you go.
- Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to blend the flavors and heat the milk thoroughly.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Ladle into bowls and serve hot, optionally garnishing with chopped chives, shredded cheese, or crispy bacon bits if desired.
Tips
- Choose the right potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for this recipe, as they break down nicely and create a creamy texture.
- Uniform cutting is key: Dice your potatoes into consistent 1/2-inch cubes to ensure even cooking and a perfect texture.
- Don't rush the onion sauté: Take your time caramelizing the onions to develop a deeper, sweeter flavor base for your soup.
- Control your mashing: Partially mash the potatoes for a rustic, chunky texture that adds character to the soup.
- Milk matters: Add milk slowly and at the end to prevent curdling and maintain a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Season gradually: Taste and adjust salt and pepper incrementally to achieve the perfect flavor balance.
- Optional flavor boosters: Experiment with garnishes like crispy bacon, shredded cheese, or chopped chives to elevate the soup's taste and presentation.
- Make ahead tip: This soup reheats beautifully, so don't hesitate to make a larger batch for quick meals throughout the week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
