Potato Soup Recipe

 





Step-by-Step Guide to Prepare Potato Soup

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

  • Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized chunks for even cooking.
  • Chop the onion and mince the garlic for a base layer of flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon (Optional)

  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
  • Remove the bacon pieces and set them aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot for extra flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

  • Add the butter to the pot (with the bacon fat if using).
  • Sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 4: Add Potatoes and Broth

  • Stir in the diced potatoes, ensuring they’re coated in the buttery, aromatic mixture.
  • Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring the potatoes are fully submerged.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

  • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
  • Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 6: Blend for Creaminess

  • Using an immersion blender, puree the soup to your desired consistency. For a chunkier soup, blend only half of the mixture. Alternatively, transfer half the soup to a blender, puree it, and return it to the pot.

Step 7: Add Cream and Seasonings

  • Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Adjust to taste.
  • If you want extra richness, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

  • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with crispy bacon, chopped green onions, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.

Topping Ideas for Potato Soup

  • Classic: Crispy bacon bits, green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese
  • Healthy: A sprinkle of parsley, roasted veggies, or a swirl of Greek yogurt
  • Spicy: Crushed red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce
  • Extra Hearty: Add cooked diced ham, shredded chicken, or crumbled sausage

Tips for the Best Potato Soup

  1. Use Starchy Potatoes: Russets work best for their creamy texture when cooked.
  2. Don’t Skip the Bacon: Even if you don’t eat it as a topping, the rendered fat adds a rich, smoky flavor.
  3. Control the Consistency: Blend more for a smooth soup or less for a chunky, rustic texture.
  4. Enhance the Creaminess: For an extra luxurious soup, use heavy cream or add a dollop of cream cheese.
  5. Make It Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Why Homemade Potato Soup is the Best

Making potato soup at home allows you to control the flavors, texture, and ingredients. Store-bought soups often have added preservatives and excess sodium, while homemade versions are fresh, wholesome, and packed with love. Plus, the aroma of simmering potatoes, garlic, and onions in your kitchen is unmatched.

Make It a Meal

Pair your potato soup with a side of crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or even a sandwich for a complete and satisfying meal. It’s also great as a starter for larger dinners.