Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience with our Perfect Potato Soup recipe. Whether you’re battling the winter chills or just in need of some creamy, dreamy goodness, this soup is your go-to solution. Let’s dive into the magic of potatoes transformed into a velvety soup that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of russet and Yukon gold potatoes gives the soup a perfect balance of creaminess and texture.
- Slow-cooking the onions and garlic in butter before adding the potatoes deepens the flavor profile.
- Using chicken stock as the base adds a rich, savory depth that water just can’t match.
- A final swirl of heavy cream brings luxurious silkiness to every spoonful.
- Garnishing with crispy bacon and chives adds a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 pound Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Immersion blender or regular blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until they’re soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for building the soup’s flavor base, so don’t rush it. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 2: Add the Potatoes and Stock
Throw in both types of diced potatoes and pour in the chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 20 minutes. The variety of potatoes ensures your soup has the perfect texture.
Step 3: Blend the Soup
Once the potatoes are soft, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you’re using a regular blender, work in batches to avoid overfilling. Tip: Leave some chunks if you prefer a chunkier texture.
Step 4: Add the Cream
Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This is where the soup goes from good to ‘can’t-stop-eating-it’ good.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon and chopped chives. The smoky bacon and fresh chives add a pop of color and flavor that elevates the dish. Tip: Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra layer of flavor, try roasting the potatoes before adding them to the soup. This caramelizes their natural sugars and adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. If you’re short on time, you can skip peeling the Yukon gold potatoes; their skins are thin enough to blend smoothly. For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken stock for vegetable stock and omit the bacon. To make the soup ahead of time, prepare it up to the blending step, then refrigerate. Reheat and add the cream just before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Cheesy Potato Soup: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese after adding the cream for a cheesy twist.
- Spicy Potato Soup: Add a diced jalapeño with the onions and garlic for a spicy kick.
- Loaded Potato Soup: Top with sour cream, extra cheese, and green onions for a loaded baked potato vibe.
- Vegan Potato Soup: Use olive oil instead of butter, vegetable stock, and coconut milk instead of cream for a vegan-friendly version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use only one type of potato?
Yes, you can use only russet or Yukon gold potatoes, but using both gives the soup a better texture and flavor. Russets break down more, thickening the soup, while Yukon golds add creaminess.
How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
If your soup is too thin, you can simmer it longer to reduce, or mash some of the potatoes before blending. Alternatively, a slurry of cornstarch and water can be stirred in to thicken.
Can I freeze potato soup?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze it before adding the cream. Thaw in the fridge overnight, reheat, and then stir in the cream. The texture may change slightly, but it’ll still be delicious.
Summary
This Perfect Potato Soup recipe is a creamy, comforting dish that’s easy to make and customizable to your taste. With tips for variations and FAQs answered, you’re all set to make this soul-warming soup any day of the week.
