This red potato soup is creamy, warm, and oh-so-comforting. Made with fresh red potatoes, onions, and a splash of cream, it’s perfect for chilly days!
I love how quickly it comes together. Just boil, mash, and stir—easy peasy! Plus, it makes your kitchen smell amazing while it cooks!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Potatoes: These potatoes are perfect for soup since their skin adds texture. If you can’t find them, Yukon Gold potatoes are a great choice too. They give a similar creamy consistency when cooked.
Bacon: While I love the smoky flavor bacon adds, you can substitute with turkey bacon or even make this soup vegetarian by omitting it entirely and adding extra seasoning instead.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar works wonders for flavor! If you’re looking for a lower-fat alternative, try part-skim mozzarella, or for a dairy-free option, use a vegan cheese substitute.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk can work well, but they might not be as rich. If you’re dairy-free, use coconut cream or a plant-based milk and add a bit more cheese for thickness.
How Do I Make Sure My Potatoes Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the potatoes correctly is key to a smooth soup. Start by cutting them into even, bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate. After adding them to the broth, bring it to a boil and then reduce to a simmer.
- Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
- Be sure to test a few pieces—if they mash easily with a fork, they’re ready to be partially mashed into the soup!
Remember, leaving some chunks adds heartiness to your soup. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
How to Make Red Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 lbs red potatoes, diced (leave skin on for texture)
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes of cooking time, so you can enjoy your delicious red potato soup in about 40 minutes total. Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it’s nice and crispy, stirring occasionally. Once it’s done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pot, leaving the tasty drippings behind. Set the bacon aside for later.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the butter to the pot with the remaining bacon drippings. Let it melt, then add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant. This will add so much flavor to your soup!
3. Make the Roux:
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes to form a roux, which will help thicken your soup and get rid of any raw flour taste.
4. Add the Broth:
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. This is where the magic begins! Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
5. Cook the Potatoes:
Add the diced red potatoes to the pot. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when you can easily poke them with a fork.
6. Mash the Soup:
Using a potato masher or an immersion blender, gently mash some of the potatoes in the soup while leaving a few chunks. This creates a creamy texture that’s still hearty—just the way we like it!
7. Add Cream and Cheese:
Pour in the heavy cream and add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and everything is well combined. It’s going to be creamy and delicious!
8. Season it Up:
Finally, season your soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Remember to taste it to get that perfect flavor!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out your warm, comforting red potato soup into bowls. Don’t forget to top each bowl with the crispy bacon you set aside earlier and sprinkle with fresh chives for a lovely finish!
Enjoy your comforting bowl of creamy red potato soup!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While red potatoes are excellent for their creamy texture and skin, you can use Yukon Gold or even Russet potatoes. Just keep in mind the cooking time may vary slightly based on the potato type used.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add some smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness to mimic the bacon flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess, as it may thicken in the fridge.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding more cream if needed!