Name: The Ultimate Creamy Potato Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 6 strips bacon (cut into small pieces); 3 Tablespoons butter (unsalted or salted); 2 cups milk; ⅔ cup heavy cream; ⅔ cup sour cream (for serving); 1 medium yellow onion (chopped (about 1.5 cup/200g)); 3 large garlic cloves (minced); 2 ½ lbs gold potatoes (peeled and diced into pieces no larger than 1” (about 6 large potatoes)); 4 cups chicken broth; ⅓ cup all-purpose flour ((42g)); 1 ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon ground pepper; ¼ - ½ teaspoon ancho chili powder (adjust to taste); shredded cheddar cheese (for topping); chives (for topping); additional sour cream (for topping); bacon (for topping)

Introduction to Ultimate Creamy Potato Soup

When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For many, it’s a steaming bowl of potato soup, with its rich aroma and creamy texture that wraps you in warmth like a soft blanket. This is where the ultimate creamy potato soup shines, combining the heartiness of potatoes with luscious creaminess that makes every spoonful a delight.

Why is potato soup the ultimate comfort food?

Potato soup is often hailed as a classic comfort choice—and for good reason! Besides being incredibly satisfying, potatoes are naturally adaptable and can absorb a variety of flavors. Pair that with the indulgence of heavy cream and sour cream, and you have a dish that feels like a hug from the inside out.

Moreover, this soup is straightforward to make, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends when you want to indulge without the hassle. When topped with crispy turkey bacon or a sprinkle of chewy cheese, it transforms into a satisfying treat that can impress your friends or family.

Want to elevate your cooking game? With variations like adding different spices or incorporating veggies, the ultimate creamy potato soup can cater to anyone’s taste.

Ready to dive into the recipe? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Ultimate Creamy Potato Soup

Creating the ultimate creamy potato soup is all about using the right mix of ingredients that complement each other beautifully. Here’s what you will need to make this delicious dish:

Turkey Bacon: 6 strips, cut into small pieces for that smoky flavor.
Butter: 3 tablespoons, unsalted or salted, for rich creaminess.
Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (about 1.5 cups) that adds a sweet base note.
Garlic: 3 large cloves, minced for aromatic depth.
All-Purpose Flour: ⅓ cup, to help thicken the soup.
Gold Potatoes: 2 ½ lbs, peeled and diced for the perfect texture.
Chicken Broth: 4 cups for a savory base.
Milk: 2 cups, which adds creaminess.
Heavy Cream: ⅔ cup, for that luxurious finish.
Seasonings: Salt, ground pepper, and ancho chili powder for a kick.
Sour Cream: ⅔ cup, folded in for tartness.
Toppings: Shredded cheddar cheese, chives, and extra turkey bacon, if desired.

Ready to dive in? Combine these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to comforting soup perfection. Check out this all-purpose flour guide for tips on proper measurement!

Step-by-step Preparation of Ultimate Creamy Potato Soup

Creating the ultimate creamy potato soup is not only satisfying but also a perfect way to warm up any chilly day. Let’s walk through the steps to make a deliciously creamy and hearty soup that’s sure to impress your friends and family.

Cook the Turkey Bacon

Start by placing 6 strips of turkey bacon in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Cook until the bacon is crispy and nicely browned. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon pieces, leaving the rendered fat in the pot to enhance the flavor of your soup. Those little bits of crispy turkey bacon will be added back to the soup later for a delicious crunch!

Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In the same pot with the bacon fat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbly, add 1 chopped medium yellow onion and sauté it for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until the onions are tender and translucent. Add 3 large minced garlic cloves and cook for another 30 seconds, or until fragrant. If you like a hint of spice, consider adding a sprinkle of ancho chili powder at this stage—a little kick never hurts!

Add Flour and Potatoes

Next, sprinkle ⅓ cup of all-purpose flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened. This step helps create a creamy base for your soup. Now, it's time to add the star of the dish! Fold in 2 ½ lbs of peeled and diced gold potatoes. Aim for pieces no larger than 1 inch for even cooking.

Incorporate Broth, Milk, and Cream

Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, 2 cups of milk, and ⅔ cup of heavy cream. Season with 1 ½ teaspoons of salt and 1 teaspoon of ground pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, continue to cook until the potatoes are tender enough to pierce with a fork—this should take about 10 minutes.

Simmer and Blend the Soup

When the potatoes are tender, reduce the heat to a simmer. Using an immersion blender, blend approximately half of the soup until it’s creamy smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer half the soup to a regular blender. Just be cautious with the hot liquid! Return the blended portion to the pot and stir well to combine with the chunky bits.

Finish with Sour Cream and Bacon

To add a tangy finish, stir in ⅔ cup of sour cream and add the reserved turkey bacon. Let your ultimate creamy potato soup simmer for another 15 minutes to meld all those flavors together. When ready to serve, don’t forget to top each bowl with additional sour cream, crispy bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, or fresh chives for that gourmet touch! Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting dish.

This ultimate creamy potato soup is not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug in a bowl!

Variations on Ultimate Creamy Potato Soup

Loaded Potato Soup with Toppings

Want to take your ultimate creamy potato soup to the next level? Try adding a variety of toppings! Start with crispy turkey bacon pieces for that smoky flavor, then pile on shredded cheddar cheese, chives, and a dollop of sour cream. For a kick, sprinkle some fresh jalapeños or even a drizzle of hot sauce. The combination of flavors will elevate your soup from comforting to irresistible!

Vegan Creamy Potato Soup

Craving a plant-based twist? Simply swap out dairy for coconut milk or almond milk, and replace heavy cream with cashew cream for a rich texture. Use smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness that substitutes for the bacon. This version of ultimate creamy potato soup is delicious, satisfying, and everyone will love it—even non-vegans! Discover more about plant-based swaps here.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Ultimate Creamy Potato Soup

When making the ultimate creamy potato soup, choosing the right potatoes is essential. Opt for starchy varieties like Yukon Gold for that perfect creamy texture. If you want a flavor boost, consider sautéing aromatics like onion and garlic in the rendered fat from your turkey bacon. For a heartier twist, try incorporating some diced chicken ham into the mix—its flavor blends beautifully with the creamy base.

Remember, you can adjust the thickness of the soup to your liking by controlling the amount you puree. If you prefer chunky texture with bursts of flavor, blend just half of it! Don’t forget to sample and adjust seasoning as you go—the flavors will develop further as it simmers.

Serving Suggestions for Ultimate Creamy Potato Soup

When it comes to enjoying your ultimate creamy potato soup, toppings can elevate your experience to new heights! Here are some delicious suggestions:

Turkey Bacon Crumbles: For a savory crunch, sprinkle crispy turkey bacon on top.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A handful adds a delightful creaminess and rich flavor boost.
Chives: Freshly chopped chives not only look great but also bring a subtle onion flavor.
Extra Sour Cream: For those who love a tangy touch, a dollop of sour cream is a perfect addition.
Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze can give a sweet contrast that's surprisingly delicious.

Pair this soup with a crunchy salad or some warm, crusty bread for a complete meal. Enjoy!

Time Breakdown for Ultimate Creamy Potato Soup

Preparation Time

Getting your ingredients ready is half the fun! You’ll just need about 15 minutes to chop your turkey bacon, onion, and potatoes for the ultimate creamy potato soup.

Cooking Time

Once everything is prepped, the cooking process will take about 30 minutes. This includes sautéing, simmering, and blending—perfect for busy weeknights!

Total Time

In total, plan for about 45 minutes to whip up this delicious soup. It’s quick enough to make right before dinner, yet rich and comforting enough to impress your guests!

Nutritional Facts for Ultimate Creamy Potato Soup

When indulging in a warm bowl of ultimate creamy potato soup, here’s what you can expect in each serving:

Calories

521 kcal: A satisfying number that makes for a hearty meal without overdoing it.

Protein

12g: This soup packs a decent protein punch, thanks to the combination of turkey bacon and sour cream, helping you feel fuller for longer.

Sodium

1326mg: While it’s flavorful, be mindful of the sodium, especially if you're watching your intake. Opt for a low-sodium chicken broth for a healthier twist!

Enjoy the delicious comforting flavors of this creamy soup while being aware of your nutritional intake. If you're curious about how to modify this recipe for different dietary needs, feel free to explore options for low-sodium broths or dairy substitutes.

FAQs about Ultimate Creamy Potato Soup

Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! Ultimate creamy potato soup tastes even better the next day. You can prepare it in advance, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving. If you like, you can also freeze it for up to three months. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly after freezing and reheating.

How do I store leftover potato soup?

To keep your ultimate creamy potato soup fresh, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It’s best to cool the soup completely before sealing it to avoid condensation. Storing it in individual portions can make it easy to grab and go!

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you’re looking to lighten up your soup, consider swapping heavy cream for half-and-half, whole milk, or even a plant-based cream substitute like coconut cream or cashew cream. These alternatives will still give your soup that creaminess without compromising the rich flavor.

Conclusion on Ultimate Creamy Potato Soup

The ultimate creamy potato soup is not just a dish; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with friends. Give it a try, and your taste buds will thank you! Happy cooking!