Potato soup. It’s comfort food in a bowl, isn’t it? There’s just something so nostalgic and fulfilling about a warm, hearty bowl of potato soup. Whether you’re curled up on a cold evening or need a dish to please a crowd, this country potato soup recipe has everything you need-creamy, flavorful, and downright satisfying. It’s one of those timeless dishes that brings together simple ingredients to create something incredibly comforting.
Now, if you’ve ever wondered how to make the perfect potato soup-one that’s rich but not too heavy, flavorful but not overpowering-you’re in the right place. This recipe takes you through every step, every detail, and even provides some handy tips to elevate the dish to the next level. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get into this delicious, easy-to-make, and soul-warming country potato soup!
Country Potato Soup Recipe
This country-style potato soup is all about rustic flavors, hearty textures, and keeping things simple. We’re talking tender potatoes, a creamy base, and savory additions like bacon, herbs, and cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a Sunday family meal.
Let’s break down the recipe into bite-sized pieces.
Ingredients Needed
To make a classic, indulgent country potato soup, you’ll need the following:
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Potatoes (6-8 medium-sized, preferably Yukon Gold or Russet)
- These are the stars of the show. Yukon Golds give the soup a creamy texture when cooked, but Russets add a bit more fluffiness. Choose whichever you prefer!
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Bacon (6 strips, chopped)
- Bacon adds that smoky, savory flavor that complements the potatoes so beautifully. If you’re going for a lighter version, you could skip it, but I’d recommend keeping it for the best flavor.
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Butter (3 tablespoons)
- For sautéing the onions and garlic, plus adding richness to the soup base.
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Onion (1 medium, diced)
- Adds sweetness and depth to the soup. You can also use leeks for a milder, more subtle onion flavor.
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Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
- Garlic adds a warm, aromatic base that blends perfectly with the potatoes and bacon.
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Chicken or Vegetable Broth (4 cups)
- Broth brings all the ingredients together with a savory foundation. I suggest low-sodium for more control over the salt levels.
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Milk (2 cups, whole or 2%)
- Adds creaminess without being overly rich. You can also use half-and-half for a creamier texture or a dairy-free milk alternative if you prefer.
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Heavy Cream (1 cup)
- This gives the soup that velvety smooth finish. It’s optional, but highly recommended for the ultimate creamy texture.
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Salt and Pepper (to taste)
- Basic seasonings, but don’t skimp-seasoning is crucial for bringing out the flavor of the potatoes and broth.
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Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded)
- This goes into the soup to make it even more indulgent, plus some extra to sprinkle on top for garnish.
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Chives or Green Onions (optional, for garnish)
- For a fresh burst of color and a bit of green to brighten the richness of the soup.
Cooking Instructions
Now that we have everything prepped and ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. Don’t worry-this is straightforward, and you’ll have that delicious soup in no time.
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Cook The Bacon
- In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
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Sauté The Aromatics
- In the same pot, leaving a bit of bacon grease behind, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Add The Potatoes And Broth
- Stir in the cubed potatoes and pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and can easily be pierced with a fork.
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Mash Some Potatoes
- Once the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher or fork to mash some of the potatoes right in the pot. This will help thicken the soup and create a creamy texture. You can mash it as much or as little as you like depending on your preference.
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Add Milk And Cream
- Stir in the milk and heavy cream. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes until it’s fully heated through and creamy.
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Season And Add Bacon
- Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Stir in the crispy bacon you set aside earlier.
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Add The Cheese
- Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
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Serve And Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra cheese, chives, or green onions.
Ingredient Insights
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Potatoes
Potatoes are the heart of this dish, so it’s essential to choose the right variety. Yukon Golds are naturally creamy and will break down slightly, thickening the soup without being mushy. Russets, on the other hand, are starchier and will add fluffiness to the texture, so either choice will work wonderfully.
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Bacon
It’s more than just a flavor booster; bacon adds texture contrast and a deep smoky essence that enhances the overall richness of the soup. If you’re looking for a leaner version, turkey bacon is a good substitute.
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Cheese
A sharp cheddar brings the perfect balance of richness and tang. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, like Gruyère or Monterey Jack, for variations in flavor.
Expert Tips
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Simmer For Flavor
Don’t rush the simmering time. Allow the soup to cook long enough so that the flavors meld together. The longer it sits, the better it tastes!
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Customize The Creaminess
Adjust the texture by adding more or less cream and milk. If you want it to be ultra-rich, go for the half-and-half and heavy cream combo. For a lighter version, you can skip the cream altogether or use a plant-based milk.
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Save Some Bacon For Garnish
Garnishing with crispy bacon pieces on top not only enhances the flavor but also provides a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the smooth soup.
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Use An Immersion Blender
If you want an extra-smooth, velvety texture, you can use an immersion blender to purée part or all of the soup. Just be cautious not to over-blend, unless you want it completely smooth.
Recipe Variations
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Vegetarian Version
Leave out the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add roasted vegetables, like carrots or leeks, for added flavor.
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Spicy Potato Soup
Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat. You could also stir in some hot sauce for a kick.
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Cheesy Bacon Potato Soup
Add more cheese for an ultra-creamy, cheesy version. Think about mixing in some cream cheese or a little bit of Parmesan.
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Loaded Potato Soup
Top your soup with sour cream, extra cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions, just like a loaded baked potato.
Final Words
This country potato soup recipe is perfect for anyone who loves classic comfort food with a little twist of flavor. It’s easy to make, filling, and can be adjusted to fit your dietary needs and preferences. Whether you enjoy it as a hearty meal on its own or as a side to something else, you’re sure to feel satisfied and nourished.