Jackie'S Potato Soup
Creamy and hearty potato soup with cheese and bacon, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil potatoes with celery, onions, and garlic in 2 1/2 cups water until potatoes are tender.
- Add margarine, Velveeta cheese, cream cheese, and evaporated milk to the pot.
- Mash with a potato masher until the soup is creamy and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Top with crumbled, fried bacon before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using chicken broth instead of water when boiling the vegetables. You can substitute the Velveeta cheese with any creamy cheese like Monterey Jack or cheddar if preferred. If you're looking for a lighter version, replace the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. This recipe can also be made vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth.
Serving Suggestions
This potato soup pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For an extra touch, serve it with a dollop of sour cream and chives on top. You can also enjoy it as a comforting starter before a main course, like My Mom'S Goulash, for a cozy family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the soup thickens, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jackie'S Potato Soup contains roughly 1443 calories, with 16g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 120g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (42% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2937mg per serving (128% 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 make this potato soup gluten-free?
Yes, this potato soup is naturally gluten-free as it doesn't contain any flour or gluten-based ingredients. Just ensure that any cheese or other packaged products you use are labeled gluten-free. This makes it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat to your potato soup, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper during cooking. You can also serve it with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
Is there a way to make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! You can make this potato soup vegan by replacing the margarine with a vegan butter substitute and using plant-based cream cheese and vegan cheese alternatives. Instead of bacon, consider crispy chickpeas or tempeh for added texture and flavor.
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).