When the weather turns chilly or you’re simply in need of some comforting goodness, nothing beats a warm bowl of potato soup. This easy-to-make Best Potato Soup Recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or cozy nights at home. Packed with flavor and creamy goodness, it’s sure to become a favorite among friends and family. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up those fresh potatoes from the market! Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.

Ingredients and Equipment Needed

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 pounds baby red potatoes, sliced into small bite-sized pieces
• Water, enough to cover the potatoes for cooking
• 4 chicken bouillon cubes
• 1/2 package uncooked bacon, finely diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1/4 bunch celery, diced
• 8 cups milk
• 3 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 3/4 cup salted butter
• 3/4 cup flour
• 1/4 bunch freshly chopped parsley
• 1 cup whipping cream
• Shredded cheese (for garnish)
• Fried bacon bits (for garnish)
• Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Equipment:

• Large pot
• Sauté pan
• Small heavy saucepan
• Strainer
• Wooden spoon or whisk
• Cutting board and knife

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Boil the Potatoes:

Start by placing the baby red potatoes in a large pot. Add enough water to cover the potatoes and bring to a boil. Cook for 10 minutes until they are tender. Reserve 1 cup of the cooking water for later use, then drain the potatoes and set them aside.

2. Prepare the Bouillon Mixture:

In the reserved hot potato water, dissolve the chicken bouillon cubes. Set this mixture aside as it will add a rich depth of flavor to your soup.

3. Cook the Bacon:

In a sauté pan, cook the diced bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Once cooked, drain the bacon fat and place the bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to drain further.

4. Sauté the Vegetables:

In the same pan, add the diced onion and celery, sautéing until the celery is tender, which should take about 5 minutes.

5. Combine the Base:

In the large pot with the drained potatoes, add the milk, 3 cups of water, the bouillon mixture, salt, and black pepper. Cook over medium-high heat until the mixture is hot (about 8 minutes), stirring often. Be careful not to let it boil.

6. Make the Roux:

In a small heavy saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Gradually add the flour, mixing well until it bubbles. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes to create a roux.

7. Thicken the Soup:

While stirring the soup continuously, slowly incorporate the roux into the mixture. This will thicken the soup and give it a creamy consistency, which should take about 4 minutes.

8. Final Touches:

Stir in the reserved potatoes, chopped parsley, and whipping cream. Allow the soup to heat through, but don’t let it boil.

Optional Variations and Creative Additions

• Cheesy Delight: Add a generous amount of shredded cheese like Cheddar or Monterey Jack directly into the soup for an extra cheesy flavor.
• Herb Infusion: Try adding other fresh herbs such as thyme or chives for an aromatic twist.
• Veggie Boost: Incorporate additional vegetables like carrots or corn for added nutrition and color.
• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños.

Serving Tips

• Garnish: Serve your potato soup hot, garnished with crispy fried bacon bits, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions. This adds flavor and a nice presentation.
• Perfect Pairings: This soup pairs beautifully with a crusty baguette or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if the soup thickens too much.

FAQs for Best Preparation and Storage Practices

Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can make this potato soup a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove before serving.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just be aware that the texture may change slightly when reheating.

Can I use other types of potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby red potatoes are perfect for this recipe, feel free to use russets or Yukon golds if you prefer.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute vegetable broth for the chicken bouillon cubes and omit the bacon.

Conclusion

This Best Potato Soup Recipe is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings or a cozy night in. With its creamy texture and rich taste, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Easy to prepare and versatile, you’ll love serving this hearty dish time and time again. So grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking—you’ll be enjoying a warm bowl of goodness in no time!