Ultimate Creamy Mashed Potato Soup: A Hearty Recipe for Holiday Leftovers

The autumn air crisping, leaves turning vibrant hues, and the inviting scent of pumpkin spice filling every corner – these are the wonderful harbingers of the most festive time of the year. It’s a season defined by warmth, togetherness, and, let’s be honest, an abundance of delicious food. As soon as November 1st arrives, we find ourselves swept into a delightful whirlwind of culinary delights, from impromptu office potlucks to elaborate family feasts. Eating becomes a central theme, a joyous activity that bridges homes, schools, churches, and workplaces. Every stop on our busy holiday schedule seems to offer a tempting bite or leads us to anticipate the next delicious meal.

The crown jewel of this gastronomic journey is, without a doubt, the Thanksgiving dinner. Families gather, ovens work overtime, and tables groan under the weight of traditional favorites: the golden-brown turkey, mountains of fluffy mashed potatoes, candied sweet potatoes, savory green bean casserole, aromatic stuffing (or dressing, depending on your family’s tradition), rich gravy, warm rolls, and tart cranberry sauce. And that’s not even beginning to touch on the parade of pies and other decadent desserts! While the act of preparing and enjoying this meal is an event in itself, it inevitably leads to a delightful dilemma: what to do with all the glorious leftovers?

The Delicious Dilemma of Holiday Leftovers

For many, Thanksgiving leftovers are a cherished part of the holiday experience. A day or two of turkey sandwiches and reheated sides can be heavenly. But after a while, even the most devoted fan of holiday fare yearns for something new, something that transforms those familiar flavors into an entirely different, yet equally comforting, experience. This very thought was on my mind when I stumbled upon Mom’s Crazy Cooking Challenge. My excitement soared when I discovered the November theme: mashed potatoes! It was as if the culinary stars had aligned, offering the perfect solution to the impending mashed potato surplus from our upcoming holiday feast. This challenge provided the ideal impetus to get creative with those creamy, starchy remnants.

My goal was clear: to find a soup recipe that could gracefully repurpose leftover mashed potatoes. I scoured countless blogs and recipe sites, unearthing many intriguing ideas. Then, a gem caught my eye: a ‘Loaded Potato Soup’ recipe on Angel Cole’s Work in Progress. ‘Loaded potato soup,’ I mused, ‘that sounds promising!’ We all know and love a loaded baked potato – a canvas of fluffy potato piled high with cheese, bacon, sour cream, and chives. But could this concept translate beautifully to mashed potatoes? As I delved into Angel’s recipe, I realized something wonderful: several of her initial steps involved preparing potatoes to a ‘mashed’ consistency. Bingo! This recipe wasn’t just for baked potatoes; it was perfectly adaptable for the creamy mashed potatoes I’d soon have in abundance.

Crafting the Perfect Mashed Potato Soup

While Angel Cole’s recipe provided an excellent foundation, I made a few personal adjustments. With a household full of discerning young palates, certain ‘green things floating around in their soup’ tend to be met with suspicion, if not outright rejection. So, I opted to omit a couple of the more assertive herbs like thyme and rosemary from the main pot, reserving them for individual garnish if desired. However, rest assured, even with these minor tweaks, the soup remained undeniably ‘loaded’ and, as I discovered, utterly delicious. This adaptation proved to be a triumph, turning what could have been a repetitive leftover meal into a warm, inviting, and surprisingly sophisticated dish.

This Mashed Potato Soup isn’t just a clever way to use up leftovers; it’s a culinary experience in itself. It embodies everything you crave in a hearty, comforting bowl: creamy texture, rich flavors, and a satisfying warmth that chases away the chill of a fall or winter evening. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, a comforting lunch, or even as a unique starter for another holiday gathering. Beyond its delightful taste, this soup offers incredible versatility. Don’t have holiday leftovers? No problem! You can easily whip up a batch of fresh mashed potatoes specifically for this recipe. It’s a testament to the humble potato’s ability to transform and delight in countless ways, making it an essential addition to your recipe repertoire, especially if you’re lucky enough to have leftover mashed potatoes after your holiday dinner.

Creamy Mashed Potato Soup: The Recipe

Ingredients:

5-6 cups leftover mashed potatoes: The star of our show! Ideally, they should be relatively plain, but even seasoned ones will work; just adjust salt and pepper accordingly. If you don’t have leftovers, simply prepare a batch of fresh mashed potatoes (about 3 pounds of Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes boiled and mashed with butter and milk) specifically for this recipe.
1 small onion: Finely chopped, this adds a sweet, savory depth to the soup base when caramelized.
1/2 pound bacon and drippings: Crispy bacon bits add a smoky crunch, and the rendered fat provides an incredible flavor base for sautéing the onions. Don’t skimp on this!
1 cup heavy cream: For luxurious richness and an incredibly smooth texture. Whole milk or half-and-half can be substituted for a lighter version, but heavy cream offers the best indulgence.
3-4 cups milk: Adjust to achieve your desired soup consistency. Whole milk is recommended for creaminess, but 2% will also work.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: A classic herb that pairs wonderfully with potatoes and dairy. (Optional, if sensitive to “green things” like my kids!)
1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Adds an earthy, piney note that elevates the flavor profile. (Also optional for picky eaters).
1 tablespoon paprika: For a touch of color and a mild, peppery warmth. Smoked paprika would add another layer of flavor.
1 tablespoon onion powder: Reinforces the onion flavor without the texture, perfect for a smooth soup.
1 tablespoon garlic powder: Essential for that savory, aromatic kick.
1 tablespoon black pepper: Freshly ground is always best for a more vibrant flavor.
1 tablespoon salt: Season to taste, especially if your mashed potatoes were already salted.
Pinch of red pepper flakes: For a subtle, delightful warmth that cuts through the richness. Adjust to your spice preference.
1 large slice of Velveeta cheese (approx. 2 inches wide): This processed cheese melts incredibly smoothly and adds a distinct creamy, tangy note that’s hard to replicate. You can substitute with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack, but the texture might be slightly different.
Sour cream, extra bacon bits, and shredded cheddar cheese for garnish: The ultimate finishing touches that truly make it a “loaded” potato soup experience.

Instructions:

Cook the Bacon: Begin by cooking your bacon. I prefer baking mine in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until perfectly crispy. This method results in evenly cooked bacon and renders the fat beautifully. Alternatively, you can cook it in a skillet on the stovetop.

Prepare Bacon and Onions: Once cooked, carefully drain the bacon grease into a heatproof bowl – you’ll need this liquid gold for the next step! Let the crispy bacon cool slightly on a paper towel-lined plate, then chop it into small bits. Set most of the bacon aside for garnish, but reserve a small portion to stir into the soup for added flavor and texture.
Sauté the Onions: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, add a tablespoon or two of the saved bacon grease. Heat over medium-low heat. Add the chopped small onion and sauté gently, stirring occasionally. This slow sautéing process is key to developing a deep, sweet, caramelized flavor. Cook until the onions are beautifully golden brown and translucent, approximately 8-10 minutes. Set the caramelized onions aside.

Combine Potatoes and Cream: If you’re starting with cold, leftover mashed potatoes straight from the refrigerator (like mine often are!), it helps to let them sit at room temperature for a bit, or gently warm them in the microwave for a minute or two to make them easier to work with. Transfer the 5-6 cups of mashed potatoes into your large pot. Pour in the 1 cup of heavy cream.

Mash and Mix: Using a whisk or a potato masher, begin gently mashing and stirring the cream into the mashed potatoes. Continue until the cream is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Add Milk for Consistency: Gradually add the milk, starting with 3 cups and slowly adding more up to 4 cups, until you reach your desired soup consistency. Stir continuously to ensure a smooth blend. Some prefer a thicker, heartier soup, while others might opt for a slightly thinner, more pourable consistency.

Season the Soup: Now it’s time to infuse your soup with flavor! Add the thyme, rosemary (if using), paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pot. Stir well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed throughout the soup. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!

Incorporate Onions and Bacon: Stir in the caramelized onions and the reserved portion of chopped bacon bits into the soup. This adds incredible depth and texture.

Melt in Cheese and Simmer: Add the slice of Velveeta cheese to the soup. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and smoothly incorporated. Once everything is combined, bring the soup to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. The longer it simmers, the richer the taste!
Serve Loaded: Ladle the warm, creamy Mashed Potato Soup into bowls. Garnish generously with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of the remaining crispy bacon bits, and a handful of shredded cheddar cheese. For an extra touch, you could also add chopped chives or green onions. Serve immediately and savor every comforting spoonful!

Why This Soup is a Must-Try

This Mashed Potato Soup transcends the realm of mere leftovers; it transforms them into a gourmet experience. The first spoonful immediately transports you to a place of ultimate comfort. The creamy texture, the savory depth from the bacon and caramelized onions, and that subtle, delightful kick from the red pepper flakes all combine in a symphony of flavors. The magic truly happens with the final garnishes. Stirring in a spoonful of cool sour cream right before eating, paired with the crispy bacon and melted cheddar, replicates the joy of a perfectly loaded baked potato, but in a soul-warming liquid form.

Tips for Success and Variations

Make it Vegetarian: Omit the bacon. Instead, sauté the onions in butter or olive oil. For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or liquid smoke.
Add Vegetables: Feel free to stir in cooked corn, peas, or diced carrots for added nutrients and color.
Spice it Up: For those who love heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Cheesy Variations: Experiment with different cheeses. A mix of sharp cheddar and cream cheese could be delicious, though Velveeta offers a unique melting quality and smooth consistency.
Storage: Leftover soup stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream if it has thickened too much.

The Joy of Reinvention

The beauty of cooking, especially around the holidays, lies in its capacity for reinvention. What might seem like a simple bowl of mashed potatoes can, with a little creativity and a few thoughtful additions, transform into something entirely new and exciting. This Mashed Potato Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s an ode to the spirit of Thanksgiving, where abundance meets ingenuity, and every last bit of deliciousness is cherished and celebrated. So, next time you find yourself with a mountain of leftover mashed potatoes, don’t just reheat them – elevate them! You’ll be amazed at the comfort and flavor a simple bowl of this soup can bring, making it a perfect example of a truly satisfying comfort food.

A Big Thank You and What’s Next!

A heartfelt thank you goes out to Tina at Mom’s Crazy Cooking for hosting such an inspiring and delicious challenge! These challenges are a fantastic way to spark creativity in the kitchen and discover new family favorites. I eagerly anticipate next month’s challenge – I hear it involves fudge, which promises another delightful culinary adventure!

If you’re looking for a perfect fall or winter comfort food, or simply an ingenious way to revitalize your holiday leftovers, this Mashed Potato Soup recipe is an absolute winner. Be sure to explore all the other incredible recipes submitted to the challenge and don’t forget to cast your vote for your favorites! If you enjoyed this recipe and found it helpful, you can find my entry at #27. Your support means a lot!

Final Thoughts on Holiday Feasting

As we navigate through the joyous, albeit hectic, holiday season, finding moments of warmth and simplicity becomes increasingly precious. This soup offers just that – a comforting embrace in a bowl, a culinary hug that reminds us of the season’s true essence: good food, good company, and enduring traditions. Whether you’re sharing it with family, enjoying a quiet moment alone, or serving it at a festive gathering, this Mashed Potato Soup is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser and a new staple in your autumnal repertoire. Enjoy the process of creation, and most importantly, enjoy the delicious results!