Best Homemade Potato Soup

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The Best Homemade Potato Soup is a hearty and satisfying dish that warms the soul and delights the senses. This creamy soup features tender potatoes, flavorful vegetables, and crispy bacon, creating a comforting meal that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a main dish or a side, this potato soup is sure to please. It’s versatile, allowing for variations based on your preferences, and it’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients. Get ready to indulge in a bowl of rich, creamy goodness!

Why This Recipe Works

  1. Creamy Texture: The combination of milk and heavy cream results in a luxuriously creamy soup that feels indulgent without being overly heavy.
  2. Flavorful Base: Cooking the bacon first allows the fat to render, providing a savory base flavor that enhances the overall taste of the soup.
  3. Vegetable Medley: The addition of onions, carrots, and celery adds depth and nutrition, making the soup more satisfying and balanced.
  4. Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to include your favorite herbs, spices, or vegetables, making it versatile for your taste preferences.
  5. Blending for Consistency: Pureeing a portion of the soup creates a creamy texture while retaining some chunky potato pieces for heartiness.

What You’ll Need for This Recipe

Ingredients

  • 6 medium Russet potatoes: Cut into bite-sized pieces for easy cooking.
  • 1 onion: Diced, for flavor and aroma.
  • 3 carrots: Peeled and sliced, adding sweetness and color.
  • 3 stalks celery: Diced, contributing to the classic mirepoix flavor base.
  • 6 slices of bacon: Cooked and crumbled, for a smoky crunch.
  • 8 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth: The liquid base for the soup.
  • 1 cup milk: Adds creaminess and richness.
  • ½ cup heavy cream: For an extra indulgent texture.
  • 1 tsp minced parsley: For garnish and a fresh flavor.
  • Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing the soup’s flavor.
  • 3 tbsp flour: Used for thickening (cornstarch can be substituted if desired).
  • 1 cup finely grated cheese of your choice: Optional, for serving.

Equipment Needed

  • Large soup pot: For cooking the soup.
  • Cutting board and knife: For chopping vegetables.
  • Blender or food processor: For pureeing part of the soup.
  • Ladle: For serving the soup.

How to Make This Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

  1. In a large soup pot, add 6 slices of bacon and cook over medium heat until crispy.
  2. Remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside on a paper towel to drain.
  3. Pour off most of the bacon fat, leaving a small amount in the pot for flavor. Do not clean the pan.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Return the pot to medium heat and add 1 diced onion, 3 diced stalks of celery, and 3 sliced carrots.
  2. Stir and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.

Step 3: Add the Potatoes

  1. Add the cut potatoes to the pot, along with salt and pepper to taste, and any other seasonings you enjoy (such as garlic powder or thyme).
  2. Pour in 8 cups of vegetable broth or chicken broth and bring to a low boil.

Step 4: Cook the Soup

  1. Once boiling, reduce the heat and cook for about 10 minutes or until the potatoes start to soften.

Step 5: Thicken the Soup

  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp of flour and 1 cup of milk until smooth.
  2. Add this mixture to the pot and stir continuously for about 5 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken.

Step 6: Puree the Soup

  1. Carefully scoop out ¼ to ½ of the soup and process it in a blender or food processor until smooth. Be cautious of hot liquid splashes!
  2. Slowly add the pureed soup back into the pot, stirring well to combine.

Step 7: Finish the Soup

  1. Stir in the crumbled bacon, reserving some for garnish.
  2. Add ½ cup of heavy cream and mix well. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 8: Serve

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
  2. Garnish with minced parsley, reserved bacon, and 1 cup of finely grated cheese if desired.

Tips + Tricks & More for Recipe Success

  • Bacon Variations: For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon or pancetta.
  • Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary can add additional flavor to the soup.
  • Make It Heartier: Add other vegetables such as corn, peas, or green beans for added nutrition.
  • Storing Leftovers: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk if the soup thickens too much.
  • Freezing: Potato soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. However, note that the texture may change slightly upon reheating, so it’s best to freeze without dairy and add it when reheating.

How to Serve

Serve the Best Homemade Potato Soup hot, garnished with parsley, bacon, and cheese for a delightful finish.

Serving Suggestions

  • Crusty Bread: Pair with crusty bread or homemade garlic bread for a complete meal.
  • Salad: A light side salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
  • Sandwiches: Serve alongside grilled cheese or ham sandwiches for a classic comfort food combination.

Time

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes

Enjoy this comforting and creamy Best Homemade Potato Soup that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for years to come!

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