Potato soup is the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, hearty, and satisfying, it’s a dish that stands well on its own, but the right pairings can elevate your meal to an experience. If you’ve been asking yourself what goes well with potato soup, look no further. From sides that add crunch to beverages that complement the richness, here’s a complete guide to creating a balanced and flavorful potato soup meal.
Perfect Side Dishes for Potato Soup
1. Crusty Bread
Potato soup begs for something to soak up those creamy spoonfuls, and nothing beats crusty bread. A fresh baguette, sourdough loaf, or even ciabatta works wonders. Not only does it add texture, but it also balances the soup’s richness with a slightly tangy flavor. Bonus points if you toast it with some garlic butter!
2. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Pairing potato soup with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich is a classic for a reason. The crispy bread and melted cheese provide a delicious contrast to the soup’s smooth texture. Opt for sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or even a mix of cheeses to match the soup’s comforting vibe.
3. Salads
Balance out the heaviness of potato soup with a fresh, vibrant salad. Here are a few ideas:
- Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and a zesty dressing.
- Spinach and arugula salad topped with dried cranberries, feta, and walnuts.
- A classic garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.
4. Biscuits or Cornbread
Warm, fluffy biscuits or slightly sweet cornbread are perfect companions for potato soup. For an extra indulgent treat, add a pat of butter or drizzle some honey.
5. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables add both flavor and color to your plate. Try roasting carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. The caramelized edges and earthy flavors complement potato soup beautifully.
6. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Looking for something more special? Bacon-wrapped asparagus offers a salty, savory side that pairs exquisitely with the creamy base of potato soup. It’s a somewhat unexpected yet indulgent choice.
7. Garlic Knots
Bring a little Italian flair to the table with garlic knots. These buttery, garlicky bread morsels are as delicious as they are easy to make (or pick up from your local pizza joint).
Toppings That Enhance Potato Soup
Never underestimate the power of toppings to transform your bowl of potato soup into a masterpiece. Here are some options to try:
- Crispy bacon bits for that salty, smoky crunch.
- Cheddar cheese shredded on top for an extra layer of richness.
- Chopped green onions or chives for a fresh, herbaceous kick.
- Sour cream to add tanginess and depth to your soup.
- Croutons or crushed crackers for added crunch and texture.
Feel free to mix and match these toppings to create your perfect bowl.
Drinks to Serve with Potato Soup
What you drink alongside your soup matters just as much as what’s on your plate. Here are some ideal beverage pairings:
1. White Wine
A glass of crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, cuts through the soup’s creaminess, providing a refreshing contrast.
2. Light Beer
A light lager or pale ale can complement the flavors of potato soup without overpowering them. The beer’s subtle bitterness nicely balances the dish’s richness.
3. Apple Cider
Hot or cold, apple cider’s sweet and tangy notes pair wonderfully with savory potato soup. This pairing feels especially cozy during fall or winter.
4. Iced Tea
For a non-alcoholic option, iced tea (unsweetened or lightly sweetened) makes a great companion. Its refreshing taste cleanses your palate between bites.
5. Sparkling Water with Lemon
Sometimes, simplicity wins. A glass of sparkling water with a splash of lemon is perfect if you’re looking for something light and refreshing.
Dessert Ideas to Finish Strong
No meal is complete without dessert. After the hearty deliciousness of potato soup, opt for a dessert that’s light and satisfying:
- Apple crumble or pie offers a sweet and tangy contrast.
- Lemon bars provide a refreshing citrusy finish.
- Berry sorbet or a scoop of ice cream keeps things cool and light.
Putting it All Together
If you’re hosting dinner or just planning your perfect meal, here’s what a sample menu could look like:
- Starter: Caesar salad with croutons.
- Main: Creamy potato soup topped with bacon bits and cheddar cheese.
- Side: Garlic knots or a slice of crusty sourdough bread.
- Drink: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc.
- Dessert: Apple crumbles with a dollop of whipped cream.
This combination provides a balance of flavors and textures that will leave everyone at the table satisfied.
Final Thoughts
Potato soup is a comforting, timeless favorite that offers countless pairing possibilities. Whether you keep it simple with bread or go all out with a full menu, the right sides and drinks can elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary.
Now it’s your turn. What’s your favorite potato soup pairing? Share your ideas in the comments below!
