Introduction

On chilly evenings, nothing beats a warm bowl of potato soup. I still remember the first time I made a big pot on a rainy day, thinking it would be enough to fill me up. But as I sat down with my steaming bowl, I realized something was missing—a perfect side dish to balance the meal. I grabbed some crusty bread, and with that first dunk into the creamy soup, I knew I had found the ultimate pairing.

Potato soup is comforting and hearty, but pairing it with the right side dish can enhance its flavors, add texture, and make it a more satisfying meal. Whether you prefer a buttery roll, a fresh salad, or a cheesy sandwich, this guide will help you discover 15 of the best side dishes that go perfectly with potato soup.

Let’s explore what goes with potato soup to create a balanced and delicious meal!

How to Make Potato Soup

Before choosing the perfect side dish, let’s start with a simple and delicious homemade potato soup recipe. If you love comforting, hearty dishes, you might also enjoy French onion soup rice which combines rich flavors with a cozy texture. This classic version is creamy, comforting, and easy to make, serving as the perfect base for your meal.

Ingredients:

4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup milk or heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, croutons

Instructions:

Sauté the Aromatics – In a large pot, heat the butter over medium heat. Cook the onion in the pot until it softens, roughly 5 minutes. Then stir in the garlic and let it cook for another minute until aromatic.
Cook the Potatoes – Add the diced potatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Blend for Creaminess – Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it’s smooth. For a chunkier texture, puree just half of the soup and leave some potato pieces intact.
Add Milk or Cream – Stir in the milk or heavy cream. Adjust the flavor with salt and black pepper according to your preference. Heat gently without boiling.
Serve & Garnish – Ladle into bowls and top with cheddar cheese, green onions, or croutons for extra texture and flavor.

This creamy potato soup is a satisfying meal on its own, but pairing it with the right side dish makes it even better. Now, let’s explore why pairing matters and the best side dishes to serve with potato soup!

What Goes with Potato Soup?

Author: Saad
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Description

This rich and creamy homemade potato soup is the ultimate comfort food. Pair it with crusty bread, fresh salads, or savory sandwiches for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup milk or heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, croutons

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
Cook the Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Blend for Creaminess: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. For a chunkier texture, puree just half of the soup and leave some potato pieces intact.
Add Milk or Cream: Stir in the milk or heavy cream. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Heat gently without boiling.
Serve & Garnish: Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheese, green onions, or croutons for extra texture and flavor.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with coconut milk or almond milk.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freeze for up to 2 months without dairy; add milk or cream when reheating.

Best Side Dishes for Potato Soup:

Crusty Bread & Rolls: Artisan bread, garlic bread, or cornbread.

Fresh Salads: Garden salad, Caesar salad, or coleslaw.

Savory Sandwiches: Grilled cheese, turkey club, or Caprese sandwich.

Roasted & Steamed Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, glazed carrots, or steamed broccoli.

Toppings & Add-Ons: Cheddar cheese, sour cream, or green onions.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: Per Serving
Calories: ~250 kcal
Fat: ~10g
Carbohydrates: ~35g
Fiber: ~4g
Protein: ~5g

Keywords: potato soup, creamy soup, comfort food, easy soup recipe

Why Pairing Matters

A creamy, hearty soup like potato soup is delicious on its own, but the right side dish can take it to the next level. Choosing the right pairing is important because it:

1. Adds Texture & Contrast

Potato soup is naturally smooth and velvety, so pairing it with crunchy, crispy, or fresh elements creates a more enjoyable bite. A crusty baguette, crisp salad, or roasted vegetables provide a delicious contrast.

2. Creates a More Balanced Meal

While potato soup is comforting and filling, it’s mostly carb-based. Adding protein-rich sandwiches, fiber-packed salads, or nutrient-dense veggies makes the meal more satisfying and nutritious.

3. Enhances Flavor

The mild, buttery taste of potato soup pairs well with savory, tangy, or slightly sweet flavors. For example, garlic bread adds richness, coleslaw brings freshness, and grilled cheese offers a satisfying umami bite.

By pairing your soup with the right side dish, you turn a simple bowl into a restaurant-quality meal. Now, let’s dive into the 15 best side dishes for potato soup!

Best Side Dishes for Potato Soup

Pairing potato soup with the right side dish can turn a simple bowl into a satisfying, well-rounded meal. Here are 15 of the best side dishes to serve with your soup, ranging from crusty bread to fresh salads and roasted vegetables.

1. Crusty Bread & Rolls

What Goes with Potato Soup — Crusty bread, garlic toast, or cornbread—pick your perfect side!

Nothing pairs better with a creamy soup than warm, crusty bread. Here are three great options:

Artisan Bread – A classic crusty baguette or sourdough is perfect for dipping into the soup. The crisp texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy base.
Garlic Bread – Buttery, crispy, and infused with garlic, this side adds bold flavor and makes the meal feel extra indulgent.
Cornbread – Soft and slightly sweet, cornbread brings a Southern-style touch that balances the rich, savory soup.

2. Fresh Salads

A light, crisp salad provides a refreshing contrast to the thickness of potato soup. Try these:

Garden Salad – A mix of lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots adds freshness and crunch to your meal.
Caesar Salad – The creamy dressing, crisp romaine, and crunchy croutons pair beautifully with potato soup’s velvety texture.
Coleslaw – A mix of cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing adds a light and refreshing element that balances the richness of the soup.

3. Savory Sandwiches

Adding a sandwich makes potato soup a complete, satisfying meal. Here are three delicious pairings:

Grilled Cheese – A buttery, crispy sandwich with melted cheese is the ultimate comfort food to serve with creamy soup.
Turkey Club – A stacked sandwich with turkey, lettuce, tomato, and cheese adds protein and extra heartiness to your meal.
Caprese Sandwich – Fresh tomato, basil, and mozzarella on toasted bread brings a light and flavorful touch.

4. Roasted & Steamed Vegetables

Vegetables add nutrition, color, and a bit of crunch to your meal. Try these options:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Their earthy and slightly crispy texture pairs well with creamy soup.
Glazed Carrots – The natural sweetness of carrots complements the savory flavors of potato soup.
Steamed Broccoli – A simple, nutrient-packed side that adds both color and fiber to your meal.

5. Additional Toppings & Add-Ons

Enhance your bowl of potato soup with these simple but flavorful toppings:

Cheddar Cheese – A sprinkle of sharp cheddar adds a gooey, cheesy element. If you love cheddar and want to explore its flavors, aging process, and varieties, check out this detailed guide on cheddar cheese from Cheese.com.
Sour Cream – Adds extra creaminess and a slight tang that balances the flavors.
Green Onions – A fresh, mild crunch that adds a pop of flavor and color.

Tips & Hacks for Pairing

To make your potato soup meal even better, keep these tips and tricks in mind when choosing the perfect side dish.

1. Mix and Match for Variety

Instead of choosing just one side, try pairing two or three for a well-rounded meal. For example:

A grilled cheese sandwich with a fresh garden salad creates a balanced mix of warm, crispy, and fresh flavors.
Cornbread with roasted Brussels sprouts offers a satisfying sweet-and-savory contrast.

2. Go for Seasonal Ingredients

Using seasonal vegetables ensures your sides are fresh, flavorful, and nutritious. For example:

In fall and winter, roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes pair well.
In spring and summer, fresh salads or steamed broccoli add a lighter touch.

3. Make It Homemade for Better Flavor

Whenever possible, try to bake your own bread or roast your own veggies. Homemade dishes are often healthier, fresher, and more flavorful than store-bought alternatives.

Nutrition Score & Serving Ideas

Pairing potato soup with the right side dish isn’t just about flavor—it’s also about creating a balanced meal. Here’s how to make sure your meal is both nutritious and satisfying.

Balanced Pairings for a Healthier Meal

Since potato soup is naturally rich and carb-heavy, pairing it with protein and fiber-rich sides creates a more nutritious dish. Some great options include:

Turkey club sandwich with a side salad – Adds lean protein and fresh greens.
Cornbread with steamed broccoli – Balances complex carbs with fiber and vitamins.
Roasted carrots and whole-grain rolls – Provides healthy fiber and essential nutrients.

Portion Size Matters

To avoid making the meal too heavy, consider these portion guidelines:

Soup serving size – 1 to 1.5 cups per person.
Bread or rolls – One small piece per serving.
Vegetables – At least half a plate for a well-balanced meal.

Healthier Alternatives

Want a lighter meal? Try these healthy swaps:

Use whole-grain bread instead of white bread.
Choose low-fat cheese for sandwiches and toppings.
Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt as a creamy but healthier topping.

By making these small adjustments, you can enjoy potato soup with delicious sides while keeping your meal balanced and nourishing!

Storage & Leftovers

Properly storing your potato soup and side dishes ensures you can enjoy them later without losing flavor or texture. Follow these storage tips for the best results.

How to Store Potato Soup

Refrigerate: Store leftover potato soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Potato soup can be frozen for up to 2 months, but avoid freezing it with dairy-based toppings like cheese or sour cream, as they may separate upon reheating.
Reheat: Warm the soup slowly over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy texture. If reheating in the microwave, stir every 30 seconds for even heating.

How to Store Side Dishes

Bread & Rolls: Keep in a sealed bag or airtight container at room temperature for 2 days. Freeze for up to 3 months if needed.
Salads: Store without dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days. Add dressing just before serving.
Roasted Vegetables: Refrigerate in a covered dish for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven to maintain crispness.

Tips for Best Leftovers

Freeze in Portions: If freezing soup, divide it into individual portions for easier reheating.
Refresh Bread Before Serving: Warm stored bread in the oven for a few minutes to bring back its crispness.
Avoid Overheating: Reheat only what you need to keep the flavors and textures intact.

With proper storage, you can enjoy your potato soup and sides later without sacrificing quality!

Variations & Customizations

If you love potato soup but want to try something new, here are some fun variations to customize the flavors and suit different dietary needs.

1. Spicy Twist

If you enjoy a little heat, add spices and seasonings to give your soup a bold kick:

Sprinkle in cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for extra warmth.
Add diced jalapeños for a slightly smoky, spicy flavor.
Stir in a dash of hot sauce for an easy flavor boost.

2. Dairy-Free Option

For a lactose-free alternative, swap out dairy ingredients with these substitutes:

You can replace heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk.
Replace butter with olive oil for a plant-based version.
Garnish with avocado slices for creaminess without dairy.

3. Low-Carb Version

If you’re looking for a lighter, low-carb soup, try these swaps:

Replace potatoes with cauliflower or turnips for a similar texture.
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lower-carb topping.
Add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini for more fiber.

4. Protein-Packed Additions

Boost your meal with extra protein to make it more filling:

Add shredded chicken or turkey for a hearty version.
Stir in white beans or lentils for a plant-based protein option.
Sprinkle in some quinoa to add texture and nutrition.

5. Herb-Infused Soup

For a fresh and fragrant twist, add herbs and aromatics to your soup:

Stir in fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives for extra flavor.
Blend in a handful of basil or parsley for a garden-fresh taste.
Enhance the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

With these simple variations, you can customize your potato soup to fit your taste and dietary preferences. Try experimenting with different flavors to make it your own!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What pairs best with potato soup?

The best sides for potato soup include crusty bread, fresh salads, roasted vegetables, and sandwiches like grilled cheese or a turkey club. These options add texture and balance to the creamy soup.

2. What sides do you have with soup?

Popular sides for soup include:

Bread & Rolls (artisan bread, garlic bread, cornbread)
Salads (garden salad, Caesar salad, coleslaw)
Vegetables (roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, steamed broccoli)
Savory Sandwiches (grilled cheese, turkey club, Caprese sandwich)

3. What are good sides for baked potato soup?

Since baked potato soup is rich and hearty, the best sides include:

Grilled cheese sandwich for a classic comfort-food pairing.
Coleslaw to add a refreshing crunch.
Cornbread for a slightly sweet and buttery contrast.

4. What kind of sandwich goes well with potato soup?

The best sandwich pairings for potato soup include:

Grilled cheese for a warm, melty, and crispy bite.
Turkey club to add a protein-rich balance.
Caprese sandwich with fresh tomato, basil, and mozzarella for a lighter option.

Conclusion

Potato soup is a comfort food classic, but the right side dish can make it even better. Whether you prefer crusty bread, fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or a warm sandwich, pairing your soup with the right flavors and textures creates a more balanced and satisfying meal.

With 15 delicious side dish ideas, plus tips, variations, and storage hacks, you now have everything you need to enjoy potato soup in a whole new way. Try mixing and matching different sides to create your perfect meal!

What’s your favorite side dish to enjoy with potato soup? Let me know in the comments!