This creamy rustic potato soup is like a warm hug in a bowl. Packed with tender potatoes, flavorful herbs, and a touch of cream, it’s comfort food at its best!
I love how easy it is to whip up this soup, especially on chilly days. Just toss everything into a pot and let it simmer. Perfect for dipping crusty bread too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These potatoes are great for this soup because they break down easily and make it creamy. If you don’t have russets, you can use Yukon Golds for a slightly different texture and flavor.
Heavy Cream: This gives the soup its rich and creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute whole milk or half-and-half, but the soup will be less creamy.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a delicious flavor. For a vegetarian option, try using sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for a smoky taste without meat.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a lovely tang. If you want a creamier flavor, you might use a combination of Monterey Jack cheese or Gouda. Vegan cheese can work too!
Green Onions: These add a nice crunch and freshness. If you don’t have them, chives or regular onions can be a good substitute.
How Do I Get My Potatoes Just Right?
Cooking the potatoes to the right tenderness is key to a creamy soup. Here’s how to make sure they turn out perfectly:
- After adding the diced potatoes to the pot, ensure they are fully submerged in the broth. This will help them cook evenly.
- Simmer the potatoes for at least 20 minutes on medium-low. You’ll know they’re ready when a fork easily goes through them.
- For that rustic feel, don’t blend the soup completely. Leave some chunks of potato for texture.
With these tips, your creamy rustic potato soup will turn out delicious and comforting every time!
How to Make Creamy Rustic Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables:
- 6 medium-sized russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids:
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Flavor Enhancers:
- 4 strips of bacon
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (plus extra for garnish)
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh chives or parsley (optional)
Serving:
- Crusty bread rolls, for serving
Time Needed:
This creamy rustic potato soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook, making it a total of approximately 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick dinner that feels hearty and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until it turns crispy. Once done, remove the bacon and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease. After it cools, crumble the bacon for topping later. Keep a tablespoon of bacon fat in the pot for extra flavor!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pot with the leftover bacon fat, add the butter. Once melted, toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute or two, stirring gently until fragrant.
3. Add Potatoes and Broth:
Now, throw the diced potatoes into the pot and give everything a good stir. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the dried thyme. Bring everything to a boil on medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
4. Simmer Until Tender:
Let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender. You’ll know they’re ready when you can easily pierce them with a fork.
5. Blend the Soup:
Using an immersion blender, carefully puree the soup until it’s mostly smooth but still has some chunky potato bits for texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can blend half the soup in a regular blender, then mix it back into the pot.
6. Add Cream and Cheese:
Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and the soup becomes creamy. Taste your soup and season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper as desired.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Carefully ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with crumbled bacon, extra cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top!
8. Enjoy!
Serve the soup hot alongside warm, crusty bread rolls for dipping. It’s the perfect cozy meal to warm you up!
Enjoy your homemade creamy rustic potato soup! It’s sure to be a family favorite!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes give a nice creamy texture, you can also use Yukon Golds for a slightly different flavor and creaminess. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, as they hold their shape too well.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip the bacon. You can sauté some mushrooms in place of bacon for added flavor, or use smoked paprika for a smoky taste!
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Just remember to reheat it gently and add a splash of cream if it thickens too much upon thawing.
What Can I Serve with This Soup?
This creamy potato soup pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread rolls for dipping. You can also serve it with a simple side salad for a complete meal!
