hassan
This Classic Creamy Potato Soup is a warm, comforting bowl of goodness perfect for chilly days or when you need a hearty meal. Made with tender potatoes, rich cream, and flavorful herbs, this soup is thick, velvety, and utterly delicious. Whether served with crusty bread or on its own, this potato soup will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chives or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
In a large pot, combine the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
While the potatoes are cooking, melt butter in a separate pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook the flour mixture for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, then slowly whisk in 1 cup of the chicken broth from the pot with the potatoes, creating a smooth sauce.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Once the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher to lightly mash some of the potatoes in the pot. This helps thicken the soup while leaving some chunks for texture. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup.
Step 5: Add the Cream and Roux
Slowly stir in the heavy cream and the onion-flour mixture (roux) into the pot of potatoes. Simmer the soup for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
Step 6: Add Cheese (Optional)
If you’re adding shredded cheddar cheese, stir it in at this point, allowing it to melt completely into the soup. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the creamy potato soup into bowls and garnish with crumbled bacon, chopped chives, green onions, and extra cheddar cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Notes
- Potato Type: Russet potatoes are ideal for potato soup because of their starchy texture, which helps thicken the soup. You can also use Yukon Gold for a creamier, buttery texture.
- Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, mash more of the potatoes or blend a larger portion of the soup. For a thinner soup, add extra broth or milk.
- Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for a rich, cheesy flavor. You can also experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan for different flavor profiles.
Variations
1. Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Top the soup with all the classic baked potato toppings, including sour cream, shredded cheese, bacon bits, and green onions, for a fully loaded version.
2. Vegetarian Potato Soup
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and omit the bacon. You can add extra veggies like carrots or celery for more flavor and texture.
3. Dairy-Free Potato Soup
Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk, and use vegan butter to create a creamy, dairy-free version of this soup.
4. Ham and Potato Soup
Add diced ham to the soup along with the potatoes for a heartier meal. Ham adds a delicious smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy base.
Keto Version and Low-Carb Adjustments
For a keto-friendly version:
- Substitute the potatoes with cauliflower florets for a low-carb base.
- Use heavy cream and cream cheese to keep the soup rich and creamy without the carbs.
These substitutions make a creamy, comforting soup that fits perfectly within a low-carb or keto lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little extra cream or broth if needed.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover potato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: Can I freeze potato soup?
While potato soup can be frozen, the texture of the potatoes may change after freezing. To freeze, 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.
Q: What can I serve with potato soup?
Potato soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a side of green salad. You can also serve it with grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic combo.
This Classic Creamy Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in or when you’re craving something warm and hearty. The combination of tender potatoes, rich cream, and flavorful seasonings makes this soup a crowd-pleaser every time. Serve it with your favorite toppings for a personalized and delicious meal.
