Are you craving a comforting, flavorful soup that's ready in minutes? Look no further! This creamy potato soup recipe uses the convenience of Campbell's Cream of Potato soup as a base, elevating it with simple additions for a delicious and satisfying meal. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend lunch, or even a potluck contribution. This easy recipe is ideal for busy individuals and families looking for healthy meals without sacrificing taste. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its most satisfying!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can Campbell's Cream of Potato soup
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half (for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, chives, bacon bits, sour cream
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil 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 step builds a delicious foundation of flavor for your soup.
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Add the Broth and Potatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Using Yukon Gold potatoes will result in a creamier texture.
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Blend (Optional): For an ultra-smooth soup, carefully transfer the cooked potato mixture to a blender (work in batches if necessary) and blend until smooth. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender directly in the pot for easier cleanup.
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Stir in the Cream of Potato Soup: Return the soup to the pot (if blended) and stir in the Campbell's Cream of Potato soup. This adds a rich and creamy texture and enhances the potato flavor.
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Simmer and Season: Add the milk or half-and-half, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine. Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. A dash of nutmeg can add a warm, comforting spice.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, crispy bacon bits, or a dollop of sour cream.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
- Make it cheesy: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of simmering.
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding other vegetables like carrots, celery, or leeks along with the onions.
- Boost the protein: Stir in cooked chicken, ham, or sausage for a heartier soup.
- Thicken it up: If you prefer a thicker soup, stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water before simmering.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This quick dinner idea is a perfect example of delicious dishes made easy. With minimal effort, you can create a healthy and flavorful meal that the whole family will love. Enjoy your creamy, dreamy potato soup!