Delicious Potato Soup Recipe

Potato soup-there’s something inherently comforting about it, right? It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, especially when the weather turns cold or you need a little soul-nourishing dish to lift your spirits. What’s so fantastic about potato soup is its versatility: you can make it simple and rustic or jazz it up with gourmet touches. It’s the type of dish you can tailor to fit whatever mood or season you’re in. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, easy to make, and always satisfying.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner looking to whip up something that impresses without too much hassle, potato soup is a reliable choice. In this post, I’ll guide you through a delicious and simple recipe, along with some helpful tips, ingredient insights, and potential variations that will have you making potato soup like a pro in no time. So, let’s dive in!

Delicious Potato Soup Recipe

Ingredients Needed

• Russet Potatoes (about 6 medium-sized)
• Butter (4 tablespoons)
• Onion (1 medium, finely chopped)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth (4 cups)
• Milk (2 cups; whole milk or half-and-half for a creamier texture)
• Heavy Cream (optional, for extra richness, about 1 cup)
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)
• Cheddar Cheese (1 ½ cups, shredded)
• Bacon (optional, for topping; about 4 strips, cooked and crumbled)
• Green Onions (for garnish)
• Chives (optional, for garnish)
• Sour Cream (optional, for serving)

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare The Potatoes

   • Peel and cube the potatoes into 1-inch pieces. This helps them cook more quickly and evenly.
   • If you prefer a rustic touch, you can leave some of the skins on for added texture and flavor.

2. Cook The Bacon (Optional)

   • If you’re adding bacon, cook it in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set it aside on a paper towel to drain excess fat. Once cooled, crumble it into bite-sized pieces.

3. Sauté The Onion And Garlic

   • In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Simmer The Potatoes

   • Add the cubed potatoes to the pot, and pour in the chicken (or vegetable) broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.

5. Mash Or Blend

   • Once the potatoes are cooked through, use a potato masher to mash some of them directly in the pot. If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup. The goal is to keep a bit of texture, but create a creamy, hearty base.

6. Add Dairy

   • Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, milk, and heavy cream (if using). Stir well to combine and heat through. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

7. Season And Add Cheese

   • Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s fully melted and integrated into the soup.

8. Serve And Garnish

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes: crispy bacon, green onions, chives, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Ingredient Insights

• Russet Potatoes: These are the go-to potatoes for potato soup. Their high starch content makes them perfect for creating a thick, creamy texture when cooked and mashed. They absorb liquids beautifully, giving you that comforting, rich consistency.
• Butter and Dairy: Butter adds richness, while milk and heavy cream contribute to the creamy texture. You can swap whole milk for half-and-half for a creamier consistency, or skip the cream entirely if you’re watching your calorie intake.
• Broth: The type of broth you choose-chicken or vegetable-can drastically affect the flavor. Chicken broth gives it a savory, hearty base, while vegetable broth makes it lighter, which is perfect for vegetarian or vegan versions.
• Cheddar Cheese: Adding cheese not only enhances the flavor but also makes the soup more indulgent. Sharp cheddar works best, giving it a nice tangy balance against the richness of the cream.
• Bacon: While optional, crispy bacon adds a salty, smoky flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup. If you want a vegetarian version, feel free to skip it, or try adding roasted chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms as a substitute.

Expert Tips

1. For Creamier Soup: If you prefer an ultra-creamy potato soup, add more cream (or swap the milk for half-and-half). You can also blend the soup more thoroughly for a smoother texture.
2. Season Layer by Layer: Taste your soup as you go. Season the potatoes and broth as it simmers, then adjust the final flavor with salt and pepper once the dairy is added. A pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder can elevate the taste.
3. Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can be sautéed with the onions for a wonderful herby base. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top when serving adds a burst of color and flavor.
4. Keep the Skin On: If you’re looking for added fiber and a rustic look, don’t peel the potatoes! Just give them a good scrub and leave the skins on for texture.
5. Let It Sit: After making the soup, let it sit for 10-15 minutes before serving. The flavors will continue to develop, and the soup will thicken slightly.

Recipe Variations

• Vegan Version: Substitute the butter with olive oil, the milk with coconut milk or oat milk, and the heavy cream with a cashew cream blend. Make sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Spicy Potato Soup: For a spicy kick, add a diced jalapeño pepper when sautéing the onions and garlic. You can also sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or chili powder to taste.
• Loaded Potato Soup: Go all out and add extra toppings like sautéed mushrooms, crispy fried onions, and a drizzle of sour cream. Or top it with crumbled blue cheese and scallions for a twist.
• Cheesy Potato Soup: Double the cheese! Add different varieties like mozzarella, gouda, or even cream cheese for a gooey, cheesy texture throughout the soup.

Final Words

Potato soup is one of those dishes that can be as simple or as elaborate as you want. It’s an ideal base for a variety of flavors and add-ins, meaning you can easily personalize it to suit your tastes. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a comforting meal to enjoy solo, this recipe provides a perfect starting point.

If you’re not familiar with potato soup, you might be surprised by how easy and satisfying it is to make. You get that creamy, savory goodness without needing fancy ingredients or complex techniques. It’s hearty, it’s filling, and it’s guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out.