This cozy red potato soup is both creamy and comforting. It features tender red potatoes and tasty herbs that make it a delightful dish for chilly days.
Whenever I make this soup, I can’t resist adding crispy bacon on top. It’s the perfect way to make it even more fun! You can whip this up in no time—so delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Potatoes: They add a creamy texture and hold their shape well. If you can’t find red potatoes, Yukon Gold is a great alternative.
Bacon: It brings a savory flavor to the soup. For a healthier option, turkey bacon or smoked sausage can work well too.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its rich taste, but feel free to replace it with Monterey Jack or even a vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
Sour Cream: It adds creaminess and tanginess. Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute if you’re watching your calories.
Chicken Broth: You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version, or water if you’re looking for a lighter soup.
How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Texture?
The key to achieving that creamy texture is in the blending step. You want to blend just part of the soup, leaving some potato pieces for texture. Here’s what to do:
- Cook your potatoes until they are nice and tender.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup right in the pot. If you have a regular blender, carefully transfer part of the soup, blend until smooth, and mix it back in.
- Mix in the cheese, sour cream, and heavy cream after blending to keep them rich and creamy!
This method not only creates a wonderful texture but also helps thicken the soup without excess flour or cornstarch. Enjoy a wonderfully creamy bowl!
How to Make Red Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 pound red potatoes, diced
- 4 slices bacon
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: black pepper for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This red potato soup will take about 10 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish, perfect for a cozy weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot, cook the bacon slices over medium heat until they are crispy. Once done, remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Make sure to leave about 1-2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot for flavor.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
In the same pot, add the finely chopped onion to the leftover bacon fat. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This will enhance the soup’s aroma!
3. Add Potatoes and Broth:
Now, add the diced red potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Increase the heat to bring it to a boil, then reduce it to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
4. Blend the Soup:
Once the potatoes are cooked, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup until you reach your desired creaminess. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer half of the soup to a blender, puree it, and then return it to the pot. Don’t forget to leave some potato chunks for a nice texture!
5. Add Cheddar Cheese and Cream:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese into the pot until melted and mixed in. Next, add the sour cream and heavy cream, stirring gently to incorporate everything. Just heat it through but avoid boiling.
6. Season and Serve:
Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Taste it and adjust the seasoning as you prefer! Then, serve the soup hot, garnished with crispy bacon pieces, additional shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped fresh chives. A sprinkle of black pepper on top is a nice touch too.
Enjoy a rich, creamy red potato soup filled with comforting flavors—perfect for warming you up on a chilly day!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While red potatoes are perfect for their creamy texture and ability to hold up well, you can also use Yukon Gold or even russet potatoes. Just remember that russet potatoes may break down a bit more, resulting in a smoother soup.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip the bacon, or use a vegetarian bacon substitute for added flavor. The soup will still be deliciously creamy!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, taking care not to let it boil to maintain the creamy texture.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
For an extra kick, consider adding some diced carrots or celery when you sauté the onions. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also enhance the flavor profile—just add them with the broth!