Potato Soup(6 To 10 Servings)
A hearty and creamy potato soup infused with smoky bacon, tender vegetables, and rich dairy, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon in a 4-quart Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Remove bacon from the pot when crisp and drain on paper towels.
- Strain out all but 1 tablespoon of bacon fat and discard.
- Saute onion in remaining bacon fat until tender and golden, about 10 minutes.
- Add potatoes, celery, carrots, 3 cups water, and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt to the pot.
- Cover and cook over high heat until mixture comes to a boil, about 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
- Drain in a colander.
- Add milk and half and half to the pot, stir well.
- Season with remaining salt and white pepper, heat through before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding garlic when sautéing the onions. If you're looking for a lighter version, substitute half of the half and half with low-fat milk or a non-dairy alternative. You can also incorporate additional vegetables such as leeks or kale for added nutrition. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty potato soup with crispy crumbled bacon on top for added texture. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side of Easy Party Rolls for dipping. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad like Aunt Sue'S Overnight Lettuce Salad. Garnish with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens, you can add a little extra milk or water to reach your desired consistency. Avoid reheating in the microwave to prevent uneven warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Potato Soup(6 To 10 Servings) contains roughly 1010 calories, with 41g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (98% of the Daily Value), protein (81% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (66% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1428mg per serving (62% 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 vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of water. Adding flavorful ingredients like smoked paprika or liquid smoke can help replicate the depth that bacon provides.
How can I thicken the soup if it's too thin?
If your soup is thinner than desired, you can thicken it by blending a portion of it until smooth and then stirring it back into the pot. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and add it to the soup, cooking until thickened.
Can I freeze this potato soup?
Freezing potato soup is possible, but the texture may change upon thawing. For best results, freeze the soup before adding the milk and half and half. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat, then add the dairy ingredients just before serving.
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).