Potato Cheese Soup With Salmon
Creamy and comforting, this Potato Cheese Soup with Salmon combines tender potatoes, sharp Cheddar, and flaked salmon for a rich flavor profile. Perfect for chilly days or a satisfying meal, it's a hearty dish that appeals to seafood lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter ⓘ
- 1 large onion, sliced thin ⓘ
- 1 1/4 cups diced celery ⓘ
- 3 1/2 cups raw potatoes, peeled and sliced ⓘ
- 1 cup chicken broth ⓘ
- 3 cups milk, divided ⓘ
- 1 cup half and half cream ⓘ
- 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce ⓘ
- 1 (7 1/2 oz.) red or pink salmon, bones and skin removed ⓘ
- salt and pepper to taste ⓘ
- chopped parsley ⓘ
Instructions
- In a 2-quart saucepan, melt the butter and sauté the sliced onion and diced celery until tender but not brown.
- Add the peeled and sliced potatoes and chicken broth; cover and cook on low heat until the potatoes are tender.
- Puree the potato mixture in a blender with 2 cups of milk.
- Return the pureed mixture to the saucepan, then add the remaining 1 cup of milk, half and half cream, shredded Cheddar cheese, dried thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and flaked salmon.
- Heat on low, stirring often until the soup is hot.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, blend the potato mixture longer until smooth. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute half of the Cheddar cheese with a low-fat variety. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. Fresh herbs like dill can enhance the flavor as well. Pairing this soup with a crisp salad can balance the richness of the cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light green salad for a satisfying meal. Consider serving it alongside a classic American recipe like Creamy Chicken With Rice for a comforting dinner. This soup also makes a great starter before a main course or as part of a cozy brunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Potato Cheese Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. You can add a splash of milk if the soup thickens too much upon cooling. Avoid microwaving to maintain the soup’s creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Potato Cheese Soup With Salmon contains roughly 1146 calories, with 51g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (356% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (170% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1827mg per serving (79% 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 use canned salmon instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute canned salmon for fresh salmon in this recipe. Just drain and flake the canned salmon before adding it to the soup. This can save time and still provide delicious flavor, making it a practical choice for busy weeknights.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
To make the Potato Cheese Soup gluten-free, ensure that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. Additionally, check that the chicken broth is labeled gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy this comforting dish without worry.
What can I add for extra flavor?
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or a splash of lemon juice for brightness. You can also incorporate diced carrots or bell peppers for added sweetness and nutrition. A pinch of smoked paprika can introduce a delightful smokiness that complements the salmon beautifully.
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).