Cream Potato Soup

An Irresistible Cream Potato Soup for Cozy Gatherings

Imagine a chilly evening with a bowl of heartwarming Cream Potato Soup in your hands. Packed with tender chunks of potatoes and enveloped in a luscious, creamy broth, this soup promises comfort with every spoonful. It’s a beloved favorite for many, and once you try it, you’ll see why it’s hard to resist, especially when topped with cheddar and crispy bacon.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This potato soup is the epitome of homemade comfort. It’s rich, satisfying, and filled with flavors that remind you of cozy family dinners. Growing up on a potato farm, my family often made this soup, especially during the colder months. It’s a dish that brings people together, and everyone eagerly anticipates it when it’s on the menu. You’ll appreciate how convenient it is, using mostly staple ingredients that store well, making it a reliable go-to recipe.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife

Ingredients

• 6 cups peeled and diced Russet potatoes (about 5 medium potatoes, diced into small cubes about 3/4-inch)
• 1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion (1 medium)
• 1 1/4 cups peeled and diced carrots (3 medium)
• 1 cup diced celery (2 stalks)
• 2 (14.5 oz each) cans low-sodium chicken broth
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/3 cup butter
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup sour cream

Optional Toppings:

• Cooked chopped bacon or chopped cooked ham
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped green onions or chives

Instructions

• Combine diced potatoes, carrots, celery, and onions with chicken broth in a large pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Cover the pot and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, about 10 minutes.
• Once boiling, reduce heat to medium and continue cooking for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are very soft when pierced with a fork.
• Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and cook for 1 minute while whisking constantly. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring continuously until the mixture begins to thicken.
• Once the potatoes are soft, add the thickened milk mixture to the potato soup and stir until potatoes begin to break down into the soup.
• Mix in the sour cream until well combined.
• Ladle the soup into serving bowls and top each serving with bacon or ham, cheddar cheese, and green onions.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the potatoes are diced uniformly for even cooking.
• Whisk the milk mixture continuously to prevent lumps.
• Adjust seasoning to taste after combining all ingredients.

Additional Tips or Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smokiness that complements the flavors beautifully. If you like a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes or add more flour to the milk mixture.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Each serving of this creamy potato soup is not only delicious but also nourishing, providing a good balance of carbohydrates and protein, with essential vitamins from the vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use other types of potatoes? Yes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well too, but may alter the texture slightly.

How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Can I freeze this soup? While possible, freezing may change the texture of the potatoes. If you plan to freeze, consider making the base without dairy and adding it fresh when reheating.

Conclusion

This Cream Potato Soup is a must-try for any soup lover. It’s a dish that promises warmth and comfort, perfect for any family gathering or a simple weeknight dinner. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out for you. Share your experiences and any creative twists you’ve added to make it your own!