Craving that creamy, dreamy potato soup you get at Mcalister's Deli? Stop craving and start cooking! This copycat recipe brings all the comforting flavors of that beloved restaurant classic right to your kitchen. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, or a cozy weekend lunch. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. Get ready for a taste of homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients: You'll need these simple ingredients for a batch of deliciousness.
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives (for garnish)
- Optional: Bacon bits, sour cream for topping
Instructions: Let's make some soup!
Step 1: Sauté the aromatics
Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds a delicious foundation of flavor for your soup.
Step 2: Add potatoes and broth
Pour in the chicken broth and add the cubed potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. You should be able to easily pierce a potato with a fork.
Step 3: Blend for creaminess (optional)
For an extra creamy texture, carefully transfer about half of the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth. Return the blended soup to the pot. This step isn't mandatory, but it elevates the soup's texture considerably.
Step 4: Stir in the dairy and seasonings
Stir in the milk, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Heat through, but do not boil. The cheese will melt beautifully, creating that signature creamy potato soup consistency.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy!
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped chives, bacon bits, and a dollop of sour cream if desired. This is the perfect quick dinner idea that feels wonderfully indulgent.
Tips and Variations for the Best Potato Soup Ever
- For a richer flavor: Use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
- Add some veggies: Include diced carrots, celery, or leeks along with the onions for added nutrients and flavor.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp white cheddar.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This delicious and easy potato soup recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, you'll find this recipe straightforward and rewarding. It’s a fantastic addition to your collection of best recipes and offers a quick solution for satisfying, healthy meals. Enjoy!