Craving a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness? Look no further! This Pioneer Woman-inspired potato soup recipe is the perfect answer for a cozy night in or a quick and easy weeknight dinner. It's incredibly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Get ready to experience the ultimate creamy potato soup – homemade and oh-so-satisfying! This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals, or quick dinner ideas. It’s a testament to the magic of homemade cooking and delivers one of the best recipes you'll ever try.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives, for garnish (optional)
- Bacon bits, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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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 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your soup.
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Add Potatoes and Broth: Add the cubed potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. You should be able to easily pierce a potato with a fork.
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Blend for Creamy Texture (Optional): For an extra creamy texture, carefully transfer about half of the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender directly in the pot). Blend until smooth. Return the blended soup to the pot. If using an immersion blender, blend until desired creaminess is achieved. Remember to be cautious when blending hot liquids.
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Stir in Milk and Cream: Stir in the milk and heavy cream. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper. Heat through gently, ensuring the soup doesn’t boil. Low and slow is key to maintaining that luscious creaminess.
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Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chives and bacon bits (if using). A sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper adds an extra touch of sophistication.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Cheese please: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or Gruyere cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
- Add some veggies: Include other vegetables like carrots, celery, or leeks along with the onions for added nutrients and flavor. Dice them to a similar size as the potatoes for even cooking.
- Thicker soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can simmer it uncovered for a longer time to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can use a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water) to thicken it.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: Approximately 18-20g
- Protein: Approximately 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
This recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. It’s a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy this taste of comfort food, made easy and delicious with this Pioneer Woman-inspired recipe! The best recipes often come from simple ingredients and a touch of love, and this one certainly delivers.