This creamy Irish potato soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day! Made with simple ingredients like potatoes, onions, and buttery goodness, it’s so comforting.
You’ll love how easy it is to make—just boil, blend, and savor! I always find myself going back for seconds because it warms my heart and tummy! 🥔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using starchy potatoes like Russets for a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Yukon Golds work great too. Just remember, avoid waxy potatoes as they don’t break down as nicely.
Broth: Chicken broth adds richness, but vegetable broth is a fantastic substitute for a vegetarian version. You can also use homemade broth if you have some on hand—it’s packed with flavor!
Milk/Cream: For a lighter soup, opt for milk or a plant-based milk. If you want a thicker texture, heavy cream is the way to go. You can even mix half and half for a balance!
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely aroma. If you don’t have it, dried thyme works too—just use half the amount since dried herbs are more potent. Oregano is another good alternative if you prefer a different flavor.
How Do You Get That Perfectly Creamy Texture?
A smooth texture is key in this soup! You’ll want to blend it just right. Here’s how to do it well:
- Using an immersion blender is super easy—just blend directly in the pot. Blend until creamy but leave some chunks for texture.
- If you’re using a regular blender, blend in batches to avoid overflow. Always allow the soup to cool slightly before blending hot liquids.
- Stir the soup after blending to ensure an even texture. This way, everyone gets a delicious bite!
Enjoy making this lovely Irish potato soup that’s perfect for sharing or cozying up alone!
How to Make Irish Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Garnish:
- ½ cup shredded white cheddar cheese (optional)
- 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Irish potato soup will take about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20-25 minutes of cooking time. So, you’ll be enjoying a warm bowl in about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and garlic. Cook, stirring regularly, for about 5 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant. This step builds a lovely base for your soup!
2. Cook the Potatoes:
Next, add the diced potatoes and fresh thyme to the pot. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, bringing everything to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Blend the Soup:
Once the potatoes are tender, it’s time to blend! Use an immersion blender directly in the pot and blend until you have a creamy texture, but leave some chunks for extra flavor and texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully blend half of the soup in a regular blender and then return it to the pot.
4. Add Milk and Season:
Stir in the milk or heavy cream and gently warm the soup on low heat. Taste the soup and add salt and black pepper as needed. You want it to be comforting and delicious!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. If desired, top with shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and a sprinkle of fresh chives for that beautiful presentation and extra flavor. Enjoy every spoonful of this creamy, comforting Irish potato soup!
This Irish potato soup is perfect for family gatherings, cold winter days, or simply when you need a cozy meal. Enjoy!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While starchy varieties like Russets work best for a creamy texture, Yukon Gold potatoes are also a great option. Just avoid waxy potatoes as they won’t break down as nicely in the soup.
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, simply substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan butter, use vegetable broth, and replace the cream or milk with coconut milk or a plant-based milk like almond or soy. You can still enjoy all the creamy goodness!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much. You can also reheat it in the microwave.
What Can I Serve with Irish Potato Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad! You can also enjoy it as a starter before a hearty main dish like a shepherd’s pie or a meat stew for a complete Irish-inspired meal.