Microwave Chunky Potato Soup
A comforting and hearty potato soup with smoky bacon flavor, creamy milk, and tender potatoes, perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Microwave bacon in a covered 2-quart casserole dish on High for 5 to 6 minutes or until browned. Drain and set aside.
- Add potatoes, celery, onion, water, and pepper to the casserole dish.
- Cover and microwave on High for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring once.
- Combine 1/2 cup of milk and flour until smooth.
- Stir this mixture, salt, remaining milk, and cooked bacon into the potatoes.
- Microwave, uncovered, on High for 7 to 10 minutes or until thickened; stir twice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding diced carrots or frozen peas along with the potatoes. If you're looking for a lighter version, substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon. You can also use low-fat milk to reduce calories, but full-fat milk will give a creamier texture. Ensure to stir the soup well to prevent lumps when adding the flour mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chunky potato soup hot, garnished with extra bacon bits or fresh herbs like chives or parsley. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal. For a comforting twist, consider serving it alongside the Fantastic Hot Ham And Cheese On Bun.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chunky potato soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently until heated through. If the soup thickens too much upon cooling, add a splash of milk when reheating to restore its creamy consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Chunky Potato Soup contains roughly 309 calories, with 8g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 808mg per serving (35% 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 soup in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe and store it in the refrigerator once cooled. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can omit the bacon and use vegetable broth for added flavor. For a smoky taste, consider adding smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke to the soup.
How can I thicken the soup if it's too thin?
If your soup is thinner than desired, you can create a slurry with additional flour and a bit of cold milk. Stir this mixture into the soup while it’s simmering until you reach the desired thickness. Alternatively, you can blend a portion of the soup for a creamier texture.
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).