Homemade Potato Soup is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for chilly days. This creamy soup is loaded with tender potatoes, savory bacon, and flavorful vegetables, all cooked in a rich broth. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making the Best Homemade Potato Soup, provide helpful cooking notes, and offer variations to suit different tastes.
Ingredients
- 6 medium Russet potatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 8 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp minced parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tbsp flour (corn starch can be substituted)
- 1 cup finely grated cheese of your choice
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté the vegetables in the bacon drippings until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Soup
- Add Broth and Potatoes:
- Add the vegetable broth or chicken broth to the pot, along with the diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare the Milk Mixture:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, and flour (or cornstarch). Make sure there are no lumps.
- Add Milk Mixture to Soup:
- Slowly pour the milk mixture into the pot, stirring constantly. Continue to cook the soup until it thickens, about 5-10 minutes.
Step 3: Finish the Soup
- Season the Soup:
- Stir in the minced parsley and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Bacon and Cheese:
- Stir in the crumbled bacon (reserving a bit for garnish if desired) and the grated cheese until the cheese is melted and the soup is well combined.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve Hot:
- Ladle the hot potato soup into bowls. Garnish with additional crumbled bacon, grated cheese, and a sprinkle of parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Potatoes: Russet potatoes are great for this recipe because they break down and create a creamy texture. You can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a slightly different texture.
- Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but you can use any cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or a cheese blend.
Variations:
- Loaded Potato Soup:
- Add toppings like sour cream, green onions, and chives to turn this into a loaded potato soup.
- Spicy Potato Soup:
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Potato Soup:
- Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth. You can also add extra vegetables like corn, peas, or spinach for added nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
3. Can I freeze potato soup?
Potato soup can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly upon reheating. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. What can I serve with potato soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich.
5. Can I use a different type of milk or cream?
Yes, you can use any type of milk or cream you prefer. For a lighter soup, use skim milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond or coconut milk.
Homemade Potato Soup is a comforting and creamy dish that’s perfect for any time of year. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or a special meal, this recipe is simple to prepare and full of delicious flavors. Give this Best Homemade Potato Soup recipe a try and enjoy a comforting and tasty meal. Happy cooking!
