Creamy Potato Soup

 

 

“A comforting and hearty bowl of creamy potato soup, perfect for warming up on a chilly day!”

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Ingredients

• 6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for added richness)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional, for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 3–5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.

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Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

1. Add the potatoes to the pot along with the chicken broth.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

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Step 3: Blend for Creaminess

1. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup in the pot until smooth.
   • For a chunkier texture, blend only half the soup or mash the potatoes lightly with a potato masher.
2. Stir in the heavy cream, sour cream (if using), and cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.

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Step 4: Season and Adjust

1. Add salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using) to taste.
2. Simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

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Step 5: Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with crumbled bacon, extra cheese, chopped chives, or any toppings of your choice.
2. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: Perfectly balanced flavors with a velvety texture.
• Customizable: Easy to adapt with your favorite mix-ins or toppings.
• Family-Friendly: A comforting dish everyone will love!

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Pro Tips for Success

1. Add Extra Veggies: Stir in corn, carrots, or spinach for added nutrients.
2. Make It Lighter: Substitute cream with milk or use low-fat sour cream.
3. Thicker Soup: Add a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

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This Creamy Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every spoonful of this satisfying and flavorful soup! ??✨