Easy Potato Soup

I really enjoy potato soup but it can be somewhat time consuming to make. Today I was running low on time and decided to try something new.

• 4 cups water
• 2 cubes chicken bouillon
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 4 medium Idaho potatoes, peeled and cubed (1/2" in size)
• 1 1/3 cups instant potato flakes
• 2 cups 1% milk
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped chives
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley
• Garnish Options:
• 8 oz. smoked chicken sausage, cooked crumbled bacon, or any other meat
• shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 bunch green onions, chopped
• Ritz crackers

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, combine water, bouillon, garlic powder, potatoes cubes, and chicken sausage (if using this meat option). Cook over medium/medium-high heat until potatoes are fork tender (about 15 minutes).
2. Add all remaining ingredients in order; stir until smooth.
3. Ladle into bowls and top with choice of garnishes.

Before Garnishes

The whole process took me about 30 minutes. I also served breadsticks.

After Garnishes