When it comes to hearty, comforting meals, nothing beats a steaming bowl of potato soup. This homemade potato soup recipe strikes the perfect balance of creamy texture and rich flavors, making it a favorite for cozy family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prep for the week. Let’s dive into how you can make this timeless dish and customize it to suit your taste.
Why This Potato Soup Recipe Stands Out
This recipe uses simple ingredients that blend together to create a luxurious and satisfying meal. The addition of bacon brings a smoky richness, while the mix of potatoes, vegetables, and cheese makes every spoonful irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients and Their Role
Russet Potatoes: The starchy nature of Russet potatoes makes them ideal for creamy soups. Cut into bite-sized pieces, they cook evenly and blend smoothly.
Vegetables (Onion, Carrots, Celery): These aromatics add depth and flavor to the soup base.
Bacon: Provides a smoky, savory element while the rendered fat enhances the overall flavor.
Vegetable or Chicken Broth: The liquid base for the soup. Chicken broth gives a richer taste, while vegetable broth keeps it vegetarian-friendly.
Milk and Heavy Cream: These create the creamy texture that makes potato soup so comforting.
Flour (or Cornstarch): Thickens the soup, giving it a velvety consistency.
Cheese: Adds a layer of indulgence and enhances the soup’s flavor.
Parsley, Salt, and Pepper: These seasonings round out the dish and add brightness.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Potato Soup
1. Prepare the Bacon
Start by cooking the bacon in your soup pot over medium heat until crispy. Once done, remove the bacon and set it aside for garnishing. Leave a small amount of bacon fat in the pot to sauté the vegetables, as it adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Add diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot with the reserved bacon fat. Stir and cook for about 2 minutes until they begin to soften.
3. Add Potatoes and Seasonings
Add the diced potatoes to the pot along with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you prefer, such as garlic powder or thyme.
4. Pour in the Broth
Add the vegetable or chicken broth, ensuring the potatoes and vegetables are fully submerged. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes start to soften.
5. Create the Creamy Base
In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and flour (or cornstarch) until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into the soup while stirring continuously. Cook for another 5 minutes to allow the soup to thicken.
6. Blend for Creaminess
Carefully remove about ¼ to ½ of the soup and blend it in a food processor or blender until smooth. Return the blended portion to the pot, stirring to combine. This step gives the soup a creamy texture while keeping some chunks of potatoes for added heartiness.
7. Add the Final Touches
Stir in the heavy cream and most of the crumbled bacon, saving a bit for garnish. Let the soup simmer for another minute or two to meld the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with fresh parsley, crispy bacon bits, and shredded cheese for an appealing presentation. Pair it with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Customization Ideas
Make it Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth. You can add a few drops of liquid smoke for a hint of smokiness.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for some heat.
Add Protein: Incorporate shredded chicken or diced ham for a heartier version.
Swap the Cheese: Try sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
Storing and Reheating Potato Soup
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Potato soup can be frozen, but note that the texture may change slightly. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth if it’s too thick.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, Yukon Gold potatoes work well, as they have a buttery flavor and smooth texture.
2. What’s the best way to blend the soup?
An immersion blender is the easiest option, as it allows you to blend directly in the pot. If using a traditional blender, be sure to blend in small batches to avoid spills.
3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely. Potato soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Simply reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This homemade potato soup is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any season. Its rich and creamy base, coupled with the savory crunch of bacon, makes it both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or as part of a larger spread, this soup is sure to impress. So grab your ingredients, and enjoy the warm, hearty goodness of homemade potato soup!
