If you ever wondered how to transform your leftover mashed potatoes into something truly magical, you have to try this Leftover Garlic Mashed Potato Soup Recipe. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, effortlessly turning what could be a simple side note into the star of your meal. The creamy texture, infused with the deep, comforting garlic flavors, makes this soup not only a fantastic way to reduce waste but also a fast, satisfying comfort food that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Every spoonful blends the richness of butter and cream with the earthy, sweet notes of sautéed onions and garlic, making this recipe an absolute must-try for anyone who loves cozy, flavorful soups.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how just a few simple, everyday ingredients come together to create this indulgently creamy and comforting soup. Each one plays a special role, adding layers of flavor, creaminess, and that perfect hint of garlic that makes this recipe shine.
- 2 cups leftover garlic mashed potatoes: The star of the dish, lending both texture and the essential garlic flavor that sets this soup apart.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps soften the onion while infusing the soup with a silky mouthfeel.
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped: Provides a sweet, savory base that balances the garlic’s punch and deepens the flavor.
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth: Lightens the soup just enough while contributing savory complexity—choose chicken for richness or vegetable for a vegetarian version.
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half: Brings a luscious creaminess that makes each spoonful irresistible.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste): Adds a subtle heat to round out the dish.
- Optional toppings (shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, chives, sour cream): These add layers of texture, flavor, and visual appeal to your finished soup.
How to Make Leftover Garlic Mashed Potato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Start by melting the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add your chopped yellow onion. Sauté this until the onions become soft and fragrant, which takes about 5 minutes. This step is key because those caramelized onions introduce a subtle sweetness that beautifully complements the garlicky mashed potatoes.
Step 2: Warm the Mashed Potatoes
Next, stir in your leftover garlic mashed potatoes. Let them warm up and blend with the sautéed onion base. This melding process lets the potatoes absorb some of those flavors while preparing the soup’s creamy foundation.
Step 3: Add the Broth
Slowly whisk in your chicken or vegetable broth. You can adjust how thick or thin you want your soup at this stage by adding more or less broth. Whisk gently to make sure you create a smooth, velvety texture with no lumps.
Step 4: Incorporate the Cream
Reduce your heat to low, then carefully pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Stir gently until the soup becomes beautifully smooth and heated all the way through. This creaminess is what makes this “Leftover Garlic Mashed Potato Soup Recipe” feel so indulgent without any extra fuss.
Step 5: Season to Perfection
Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. This final touch enhances every element and brings the flavors together in delightful harmony.
Step 6: Add Your Favorite Toppings and Serve
Finally, ladle the soup into bowls and add optional toppings like shredded cheese, crispy bacon, fresh chives, or a dollop of sour cream. These garnishes make the soup extra special, adding texture and color that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
How to Serve Leftover Garlic Mashed Potato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Topping your soup is a chance to add personality and flair. Crispy, crumbled bacon brings a wonderful crunch and smoky flavor, while shredded cheese creates a gooey, melty surprise. Fresh chives add just the right hint of oniony brightness, and a swirl of sour cream adds cool creaminess that contrasts perfectly with the warm soup.
Side Dishes
Because this soup is rich and hearty, pairing it with lighter sides works best. A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette or some crusty artisan bread are excellent choices. The bread is especially great for dipping and soaking up every last bit of the flavorful soup.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your soup experience into a feast for the eyes by serving it in rustic bread bowls or charming ramekins. Sprinkle freshly cracked black pepper or a pinch of smoked paprika on top for visual contrast. For a touch of elegance, garnish with finely chopped herbs or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it cools completely before sealing it to preserve freshness and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, this Leftover Garlic Mashed Potato Soup Recipe freezes well. Pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to avoid curdling the cream. Stir frequently until hot and smooth. If the soup thickens too much after refrigeration or freezing, simply thin it with a splash of broth or cream to bring back that perfect silky consistency.
FAQs
Can I use regular mashed potatoes instead of garlic mashed potatoes?
You can, but the garlic in leftover mashed potatoes adds a very special flavor that really makes this soup stand out. If you use plain mashed potatoes, consider adding minced garlic or garlic powder during the sauté step to compensate.
Is this soup suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! Just swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and ensure your toppings are vegetarian-friendly to keep it meat-free and delicious.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the butter with olive oil and use a non-dairy cream alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. Just be mindful that the flavor profile will shift slightly, but it will still be tasty and creamy.
How can I make this soup thicker or thinner?
Adjust the amount of broth you add when whisking in the potatoes. For thicker soup, use less broth; for thinner, add more gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Definitely! Diced carrots, celery, or even corn can add nice texture and flavor. Just sauté them along with the onions to soften before adding the potatoes and broth.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about turning simple leftovers into a soul-soothing meal, and this Leftover Garlic Mashed Potato Soup Recipe does just that with effortless charm. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a cozy dinner, or a crowd-pleasing starter, this soup will wrap you in comfort and flavor. Give it a try—you might just discover a new favorite way to enjoy your mashed potatoes!
Print
Leftover Garlic Mashed Potato Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Leftover Garlic Mashed Potato Soup is a delicious way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a creamy, flavorful soup. Enhanced with sautéed onions, butter, and rich cream, this easy stovetop recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or cozy dinner. Customize with toppings like shredded cheese, bacon, chives, or sour cream for an extra savory touch.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 2 cups leftover garlic mashed potatoes
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Optional Toppings
- Shredded cheese
- Crumbled bacon
- Chives
- Sour cream
Instructions
- Sauté Onions: Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add Mashed Potatoes: Stir in the leftover garlic mashed potatoes and allow them to warm and blend with the sautéed onion.
- Add Broth: Slowly whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, adjusting the amount to achieve your preferred soup thickness.
- Add Cream: Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Stir gently until the soup is smooth and heated through.
- Season: Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste, blending well.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite optional toppings such as shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, chives, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
Notes
- You can use either chicken or vegetable broth depending on your dietary preference.
- Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more or less broth to suit your taste.
- Leftover garlic mashed potatoes with added herbs or cheese will enhance the soup’s flavor.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and skip bacon topping.
- Reheat gently on low to avoid separating cream.
- This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
