Potato Soup Recipe -

Potato Soup Recipe is a classic comfort food, known for its creamy texture and hearty flavors. This recipe combines the starchy goodness of potatoes with a blend of savory seasonings and rich cheese, resulting in a warm and comforting bowl that's perfect for chilly days. The addition of hot sauce gives this soup a slight kick, making it a delightful treat for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their meals. This soup is not only satisfying and delicious but also relatively easy to prepare, making it a great choice for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings.

Ingredients:

4 large potatoes, diced
Water, enough to cover the top of potatoes
1 cup diced onions
2 cups milk
3 chicken bouillon cubes
2 tablespoons flour
2 tablespoons dried parsley
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon hot sauce
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, more to garnish

Preparation:

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Place the 4 large diced potatoes in a large pot. Add enough water to the pot to just cover the top of the potatoes. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer until they are tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Onions
While the potatoes are cooking, take another pan and sauté 1 cup of diced onions over medium heat until they are translucent and soft. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Soup Base
Once the potatoes are tender, do not drain the water. To the pot with the potatoes, add the sautéed onions, 2 cups of milk, and 3 chicken bouillon cubes. Stir to combine.

Step 4: Season the Soup
To the pot, add 2 tablespoons of flour, 2 tablespoons of dried parsley, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of pepper, and 1 teaspoon of hot sauce. Stir well to ensure the flour is fully dissolved and the seasonings are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Simmer and Add Cheese
Bring the soup to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Allow the soup to simmer for about 10 minutes to thicken slightly and for the flavors to meld together. After simmering, add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the soup. Stir until the cheese is completely melted.

Step 6: Serve the Soup
Once the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through, it's ready to serve. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional shredded cheddar cheese if desired.

Cooking Note:

Be careful not to let the soup boil vigorously after adding the milk and cheese, as this can cause the soup to curdle or the cheese to separate.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this hearty Potato Soup hot, garnished with additional shredded cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of chopped parsley, or some crispy bacon bits. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a light salad, or as a comforting meal on its own.

Tips:

Potato Choice: Use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for a creamier texture.
Consistency Adjustments: For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes in the pot, or add more flour if needed.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to customize the soup by adding cooked bacon, green onions, or sour cream for additional flavors.

Prep Time:

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information:

Calories: Approximately 250-300 per serving (varies based on the serving size and specific ingredients used)
Protein: 10-12g per serving
Sodium: Varies based on the chicken bouillon cubes and added salt

Conclusion

Potato Soup is a classic and comforting dish that is both filling and flavorful. Its creamy texture, combined with the heartiness of potatoes and the richness of cheese, makes it a beloved meal for many. Whether you're looking for a cozy dinner option on a cold evening or a satisfying lunch, this Potato Soup recipe is sure to warm you up and leave you feeling content.