Best Ever Potato Soup Recipe

If you are on the hunt for a comforting, creamy, and downright delicious soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, look no further than the Best Ever Potato Soup Recipe. This dish combines crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and a luscious cheesy broth that melts in your mouth with every spoonful. Its perfectly balanced flavors and textures make it an absolute crowd-pleaser, whether it’s served for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering with friends. Once you try this recipe, it’s destined to be a staple in your kitchen rotation, guaranteed to comfort and satisfy like no other.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the foundation of any great recipe, and this one is no exception. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering the rich, hearty texture and vibrant flavor that make this soup stand out. Plus, they’re all simple pantry staples or easy-to-find fresh items, perfect for a quick grocery run.

• Bacon strips (6): Provides smoky, crispy bits that infuse the soup with irresistible flavor and texture.
• Potatoes, peeled and cubed (3 cups): The hearty base of the soup, offering creaminess and substance.
• Carrot, grated (1 small): Adds a subtle sweetness and a splash of color to brighten the bowl.
• Onion, chopped (1/2 cup): Builds aromatic depth and balances the richness.
• Dried parsley flakes (1 tbsp): A fragrant herb that lifts the overall flavor profile.
• Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances all the flavors working harmoniously in the pot.
• Pepper (1/2 tsp): Adds just the right amount of gentle heat.
• Celery seed (1/2 tsp): A little secret spice that contributes subtle earthiness.
• Chicken broth (14 1/2 ounces): The liquid base that brings everything together with a savory foundation.
• All-purpose flour (3 tbsp): Used to thicken the soup into that perfect creamy consistency.
• 2% Milk (3 cups): Provides smoothness and body, making the soup luxuriously silky.
• Velveeta cheese, cubed (8 oz): Melts flawlessly, delivering rich, gooey cheesiness.
• Green onions, thinly sliced (optional, 2): A fresh and slightly pungent garnish that adds a lovely contrast.

How to Make Best Ever Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Cook the bacon, aromatics and potatoes

Start by heating a large saucepan over medium heat and cooking the diced bacon until it’s delightfully crisp. The sizzling bacon fat will be your first layer of flavor, so don’t rinse it off. Once crispy, drain any extra fat to keep the soup from getting greasy. Toss in the chopped onion and grated carrot, allowing those veggies to soften and mingle with the smoky bacon for a few minutes. Then stir in the dried parsley, salt, pepper, and celery seed, followed by the cubed potatoes and chicken broth. Bring it all to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat, letting the potatoes simmer gently until tender, about 10 to 15 minutes. This slow cooking step ensures the potatoes absorb plenty of flavor while creating a rich base.

Step 2: Thicken with flour and milk

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and cold milk until perfectly smooth. This mixture acts as your secret thickening agent, creating a lovely roux as it cooks into the soup. Slowly pour this blend into your simmering pot, stirring constantly to prevent any lumps. Bring everything up to a boil again, stirring frequently, and cook for about two minutes until the soup thickens into a velvety dream. This technique is the key step that transforms a simple broth into the luscious consistency you expect from the Best Ever Potato Soup Recipe.

Step 3: Add cheese and serve

Finally, stir in the cubed Velveeta and watch it melt into the warm soup, creating a creamy, cheesy finish that’s utterly addictive. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, feel free to load up your bowl with more crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar, or a dollop of sour cream. Serve hot and garnish with thinly sliced green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor that’ll make you smile with every spoonful.

How to Serve Best Ever Potato Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Your presentation is what makes this soup shine beyond just flavor. Sprinkle fresh green onions or chives for a crisp bite and vibrant visual appeal. Additional crispy bacon bits or a sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar cheese add layers of texture and savory depth that make each serving feel special and customized.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement rather than compete. Crusty bread or soft buttery dinner rolls are perfect for dipping. A fresh, crisp green salad can balance the richness, adding freshness to the meal and rounding out the flavors without overpowering the soup’s creamy goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not get playful when serving this soup? Present it in bread bowls for a rustic, hearty touch that screams comfort food. Or, try layering it in clear glass mugs to showcase the tempting textures and colorful garnishes. No matter how you serve it, the heartwarming appeal of the Best Ever Potato Soup Recipe will steal the show.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness and flavor. The potatoes maintain a nice texture, especially if reheated gently, making your next meal just as enjoyable as the first.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Just keep in mind that the texture of potatoes can become a bit softer after thawing, but the soup will still taste delicious. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, and consume it within 2 months for the best taste.

Reheating

When reheating, do it slowly over low to medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. This prevents scorching and helps the soup regain its creamy texture. Avoid microwaving for too long at once to keep it smooth and delicious, bringing that comforting warmth right back.

FAQs

Can I use different types of potatoes in this soup?

Absolutely! While russet potatoes are a great choice for their starchy nature and creaminess, Yukon Gold or red potatoes can also work nicely. They might make the soup a bit chunkier or waxier, but the flavor will still be fantastic.

Is there a vegetarian version of the Best Ever Potato Soup Recipe?

You can easily adapt the soup by substituting the bacon with smoked paprika or a drizzle of liquid smoke for that smoky depth, and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The cheese and other ingredients remain the same, so it still packs plenty of flavor.

Can I use different cheese if Velveeta isn’t available?

Definitely! Velveeta melts very smoothly, but other cheeses like sharp cheddar or a mild American cheese can work. Just keep in mind the texture might be a little different, potentially less creamy, but still delicious.

How do I make the soup thicker or thinner?

To thicken, simmer the soup a bit longer uncovered, or add a little more flour whisked into milk before stirring in. For a thinner consistency, simply add more milk or broth to reach your desired texture without diluting the flavor.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Of course! Feel free to toss in diced celery, corn kernels, or even peas to sneak in extra veggies. Just add them at the same time as the potatoes so everything cooks evenly and stays tender.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Best Ever Potato Soup Recipe that brings comfort and joy to the table. Its rich, cheesy goodness combined with crispy bacon and tender potatoes is pure magic in a bowl. Once you make this recipe, it will become your go-to anytime you crave a cozy, satisfying meal. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and treat yourself (and your loved ones) to a bowl of absolute comfort. You won’t regret it!

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