Potato soup is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for warming up on a cold day or for a cozy night in. This recipe takes the classic potato soup to the next level, with rich and creamy flavors that will make it a favorite in your household. Made with simple ingredients and easy to prepare, this potato soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients for The World’s Best Potato Soup
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How to Make The World’s Best Potato Soup
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it is crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- Add the chopped onion to the pot with the bacon fat and cook until it is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the Chicken Broth and Potatoes:
- Pour in the chicken broth, and add the diced potatoes, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Blend the Soup:
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it is smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
- Add the Cream and Cheese:
- Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy and smooth.
- Serve the Soup:
- Ladle the potato soup into bowls. Top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of crispy bacon pieces, chopped green onions, and chopped fresh parsley.
About the Main Ingredients
Potatoes:
Potatoes are the star of this soup, providing a hearty and satisfying base. They are rich in carbohydrates and fiber, making them a filling and nutritious ingredient.
Bacon:
Bacon adds a smoky and savory flavor to the soup, complementing the creamy potatoes. It also adds a crunchy texture when used as a garnish.
Onion and Garlic:
Onion and garlic add depth and complexity to the soup, enhancing its overall flavor. They are sautéed in bacon fat to bring out their sweetness and aroma.
Chicken Broth:
Chicken broth forms the base of the soup, adding a rich and savory flavor. You can use homemade chicken broth or store-bought for convenience.
Heavy Cream:
Heavy cream adds a luxurious creaminess to the soup, making it rich and decadent. It also helps to thicken the soup and create a smooth texture.
Cheddar Cheese:
Cheddar cheese adds a sharp and tangy flavor to the soup, complementing the other ingredients. It melts into the soup, adding richness and creaminess.
Green Onions, Sour Cream, and Parsley:
These ingredients are used as garnishes to add freshness and color to the soup. They add a burst of flavor and texture to each bite.
This potato soup is sure to become a favorite in your household, with its rich and creamy flavors and hearty ingredients. Serve it as a starter or a main course, and enjoy the comforting goodness of this classic soup.
