November 11, 2024

Hearty Potato Soup

Healthy Fact of the Day

While comforting, this soup is high in calories and fat. Potatoes provide vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. To make it healthier, use milk instead of cream and reduce cheese quantity. Try turkey bacon or omit bacon and use olive oil instead. Add more vegetables like cauliflower or broccoli for nutrients. Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to reduce fat while maintaining creaminess. For a lighter version, puree some of the potatoes to create thickness without flour or cream. Consider using low-sodium broth and adding herbs for flavor without extra salt. While indulgent, portion control helps make this soup part of a balanced meal. Serve with a side salad to increase vegetable intake.

Ingredients

6 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 large onion, diced
3 carrots, diced
3 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
8 slices bacon, diced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3 tbsp unsalted butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup sour cream
3 green onions, sliced

For garnish:

Extra bacon crumbles
Shredded cheese
Chopped green onions
Cracked black pepper

Instructions

In a large Dutch oven, cook diced bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside.
In bacon fat, sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add butter and flour, stirring to create a roux.
Cook for 2 minutes.
Gradually whisk in chicken broth, milk, and cream.
Add diced potatoes and bring to a simmer.
Cook for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
Mash some potatoes against the pot side for thicker texture.
Stir in cheese until melted.
Add sour cream and half the bacon.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, topped with reserved bacon, cheese, and green onions.

Dip your spoon into this Hearty Potato Soup and watch as the creamy, potato-rich broth steams with promises of comfort and satisfaction! Each spoonful delivers a perfect balance of tender potatoes, smoky bacon, and melted cheese, all swimming in a velvety base that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re battling winter blues or just craving a bowl of pure comfort, this soup transforms humble spuds into liquid gold. So grab your biggest pot, sharpen those knives, and get ready to simmer up a batch of soul-warming goodness that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!