Charlene'S Potato Soup
Creamy, comforting potato soup with tender potatoes, melted cheese, and subtle spices, perfect for cozy gatherings or a hearty weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and cut potatoes, add salt, nutmeg, onion, and chicken broth, and start to cook.
- Cut celery and garnish carrots.
- When potatoes are soft, reduce heat to simmer.
- Add butter and cheese. When cheese is melted, add cream and simmer.
- Cook for 5-10 minutes longer, stirring often.
- Halfway through, add a couple of cups of water if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Yukon Gold potatoes, which have a buttery flavor. If you're short on chicken broth, vegetable broth can be a suitable substitute. To enhance the flavor, sauté the onions and celery in the butter before adding the potatoes. For a twist, try adding some cooked bacon or ham for extra richness. This soup pairs well with Yummie Chicken Drummies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty potato soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Top with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor and color. For a more filling option, consider pairing it with a protein dish such as Quick And Easy Parmesan Chicken. A sprinkle of grated cheese on top just before serving adds a delightful touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover potato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the consistency if needed. Microwaving is also an option; heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Charlene'S Potato Soup contains roughly 2019 calories, with 19g protein, 164g carbohydrates, and 146g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (131% of the Daily Value), potassium (61% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1409mg per serving (61% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Charlene's potato soup?
Yes, you can freeze this potato soup for up to 2 months. However, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or microwave.
What can I use instead of cream?
If you prefer a lighter option or need a dairy-free alternative, consider using coconut milk or a plant-based cream. For a lower-fat option, half-and-half or whole milk can also work well. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different depending on the substitute used.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat to the soup, incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper while cooking. You can also stir in some hot sauce just before serving. Adjust the spice level to your taste, keeping in mind that a little goes a long way!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).