why make this recipe
Creamy Pioneer Woman Potato Soup is perfect for those warm and cozy winter nights. This hearty soup is filled with comforting flavors and textures that make it a family favorite. The rich and creamy base combined with crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and cheese creates a delightful dish that warms you from the inside out. Plus, it’s simple to make, making it ideal for a busy weeknight dinner or a relaxing weekend meal.
how to make Creamy Pioneer Woman Potato Soup
Ingredients:
- 8 slices bacon (thick cut, preferably smoky)
- 1 onion (finely diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 carrots (scrubbed and diced small)
- 3 stalks celery (diced)
- 6 potatoes (peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes)
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp cajun spice
- 7 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 3 tbsp flour (whisked thoroughly)
- 1 cup milk
- 3/4 cup cream (adds a velvety, rich mouthfeel)
- 1 tsp parsley (freshly chopped)
- 1 cup cheese (grated)
Directions:
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Cut the bacon into bite-sized pieces and cook in a large pot over medium-high heat for about 8-10 minutes until crispy. Remove the bacon, leaving a couple of tablespoons of fat in the pot.
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Add the diced onion to the hot bacon fat and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
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Stir in the diced carrots and celery, cooking for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened. Add the cubed potatoes, salt, black pepper, and cajun spice, stirring until well mixed.
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Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.
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In a small bowl, whisk the flour into the milk until smooth. Once the potatoes are ready, gradually stir this mixture into the soup for about 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
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Use an immersion blender to blend half of the soup until creamy, mixing in some chunks for texture.
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Mix in the cream and freshly chopped parsley, tasting and adjusting the seasoning as needed. Add the crispy bacon back into the soup.
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Ladle the soup into warm bowls and top each serving with a sprinkle of grated cheese. Enjoy it hot!
how to serve Creamy Pioneer Woman Potato Soup
Serve this delightful potato soup hot in warm bowls. For an extra touch, you can add some more grated cheese on top or serve it with warm crusty bread or a side salad. This soup is great for sharing and makes for a wholesome meal that everyone will enjoy.
how to store Creamy Pioneer Woman Potato Soup
To store leftover potato soup, let it cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup. Make sure to portion it out into freezer-safe containers and it will last for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
tips to make Creamy Pioneer Woman Potato Soup
- For added flavor, consider using different spices or herbs that you enjoy.
- If you want a thicker soup, feel free to blend more of the soup.
- Using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, can give a nice twist to the flavor.
variation
You can add other vegetables like corn or green beans for more texture and nutrition. Additionally, for a healthier version, you can substitute the cream with a low-fat milk or omit the cream altogether.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra vegetables for flavor.
Is this soup gluten-free?
To make this soup gluten-free, replace the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free thickening agent.
Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it in advance. Just reheat it on the stove before serving.
