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Crowd-Pleasing Potato Soup (Feeds 50)

This creamy and comforting potato soup is perfect for feeding a large crowd with its rich potato puree and velvety onion-milk sauce. With just the right balance of butter, onions, and seasonings, it’s a versatile dish that can be made ahead and customized with your favorite toppings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 50 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 5 pounds potatoes peeled and diced small
  • 3 quarts water
  • 2 tablespoons salt
  • 1 tablespoon MSG (monosodium glutamate)
  • 3 pounds onions chopped
  • 1 cup butter or margarine (1/2 pound)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 quarts milk warmed
  • 2 cups cream
  • white pepper to taste
  • 1 cup chives or scallion tops chopped

Equipment

  • Large stockpot
  • Heavy-bottomed pot
  • Whisk or potato masher

Method
 

  1. Prepare the potato base by peeling and dicing 5 pounds of potatoes into small pieces. Place the potatoes in a large stockpot, cover with 3 quarts of water, and add 2 tablespoons of salt along with 1 tablespoon of MSG. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are soft (about 20-25 minutes); then mash them into a smooth puree.
  2. Meanwhile, prepare the onion base. Chop 3 pounds of onions and, in a separate heavy-bottomed pot, melt 1 cup of butter or margarine over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they turn a golden color (be careful not to let them brown). Sprinkle in 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour and continue cooking for a few minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in 4 quarts of warm milk to the onion mixture. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens to a velvety consistency.
  4. Combine the thickened onion sauce with the mashed potato puree in a large pot. Stir in 2 cups of cream gently, taking care not to let the soup boil. Season with white pepper to taste.
  5. Just before serving, garnish the soup with 1 cup of chopped chives or scallion tops. For added customization, consider offering a toppings bar with crispy bacon bits, shredded cheese, and additional chives.

Notes

This hearty potato soup is designed to feed a large crowd without sacrificing flavor. The combination of a smooth potato puree and a rich, thickened onion sauce creates a comforting meal that can be made ahead for busy events. Adapt the recipe for dairy-free diets by using olive oil and non-dairy milk, or adjust the seasonings to suit your preferences. Serve with crusty bread and a toppings bar for a complete and customizable dining experience.