There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of potato soup, especially on a chilly evening. This recipe, inspired by Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman herself, not only warms your soul but also fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. I remember the first time I made this soup; it was the heartwarming fuel for a family game night, and it fast became a beloved staple. Whether you whip it up for a cozy family gathering or simply want a hearty weeknight meal, this potato soup is truly special.
Pioneer Woman Potato Soup
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Carnivore
Description
A creamy and hearty potato soup that brings comfort and warmth to your table, perfect for any family gathering.
Ingredients
- 6 slices thin bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 carrots, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 6 small russet potatoes, peeled & diced
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp Cajun spice
- 8 cups low-sodium broth
- 3 Tbsp flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 1 tsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Once done, set the bacon aside, reserving the drippings in the pot.
- Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery to the bacon fat, sautéing until they soften.
- Stir in the diced potatoes along with the kosher salt, black pepper, and Cajun spice.
- Pour in the low-sodium broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth. Slowly add this mixture to the pot, cooking for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- If desired, blend a portion of the soup until creamy, then return it to the pot.
- Stir in the heavy cream and fresh parsley. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, topped with the reserved bacon, cheese, and a sprinkle of extra parsley.
Notes
For an extra creamy texture, use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup directly in the pot. Experiment with different cheese types; sharp cheddar or pepper jack can add a delightful twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
“This soup is a hug in a bowl! It’s creamy, hearty, and full of flavor. My whole family loves it!” — A satisfied cook.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
What makes this recipe stand out amidst the sea of soups? For starters, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, taking just around 35 minutes from start to finish. This budget-friendly meal, with its simple ingredients, is sure to please kids and adults alike. Whether you want to serve it for a comforting weeknight dinner or as a warm appetizer on holidays, this potato soup delivers every time.
Moreover, its creamy texture and rich flavors make it not just food but an experience, inviting everyone to gather around the table to share stories over steaming bowls. What’s more, the added bacon brings a savory crispness that elevates the entire dish.
How to Make the Pioneer Woman Potato Soup Recipe
Ready to dive into making this delightful soup? Here’s a rough overview of the cooking process, so you know what to expect:
Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 25 min | Total Time: 35 min
In a few easy steps, you’ll transform simple ingredients into a delightful meal. Let’s break it down:
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these items to bring this comfort dish to life:
- 6 slices thin bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 carrots, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 6 small russet potatoes, peeled & diced
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp Cajun spice
- 8 cups low-sodium broth
- 3 Tbsp flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 1 tsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheese (for topping)
Feel free to play around with the ingredients! For instance, if you’re in a pinch, pre-cooked bacon or different vegetables can work wonders.
Directions to Follow
Now it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start cooking. Here’s how to prepare this delicious potato soup:
- In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Once done, set the bacon aside, reserving the drippings in the pot.
- Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery to the bacon fat, sautéing until they soften.
- Stir in the diced potatoes along with the kosher salt, black pepper, and Cajun spice.
- Pour in the low-sodium broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth. Slowly add this mixture to the pot, cooking for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- If desired, blend a portion of the soup until creamy, then return it to the pot.
- Stir in the heavy cream and fresh parsley. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, topped with the reserved bacon, cheese, and a sprinkle of extra parsley.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Looking for the perfect way to serve your potato soup? Here are some creative ideas:
Consider serving it in rustic bread bowls for a charming, fun experience. You could also pair it with garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. For added flair, drizzle some truffle oil on top before serving or sprinkle extra cheese and crispy bacon for that indulgent touch.
How to Store & Freeze
To keep your leftovers fresh and flavorful, follow these storage tips:
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. Just remember to leave some space at the top, as liquids tend to expand when frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring frequently.
Helpful Cooking Tips
To enhance your potato soup experience, here are some pro tips:
- For an extra creamy texture, use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup directly in the pot.
- Experiment with different cheese types; sharp cheddar or pepper jack can add a delightful twist to the soup’s flavor.
- If you prefer a vegan version, substitute bacon with smoked paprika for a similar flavor profile, and use coconut milk for creaminess.
Creative Variations
Feeling adventurous with your soup? Explore these variations:
- For a spicy kick, incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Add in spinach or kale for a nutritional boost.
- Swap out russet potatoes for sweet potatoes to introduce a different sweetness and flavor profile.
FAQ
Can I use any type of potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are preferred for their creaminess, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes if you like a firmer texture.
How should I reheat the soup?
Reheat over low-medium heat on the stove, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. You can add a splash of milk if it seems too thick.
Is it possible to make this soup in advance?
Definitely! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it properly in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.
With these tips and thorough guidance, you’re well on your way to making a batch of Pioneer Woman Potato Soup that will impress everyone at your table. Enjoy!