Atlanta Bread Company Potato Soup Recipe

There’s something so comforting about a bowl of creamy potato soup, especially when it’s rich, hearty, and velvety smooth. The Atlanta Bread Company Potato Soup is one of those recipes that people can’t stop raving about. Its delicate balance of flavors, creamy texture, and simplicity make it the perfect dish for a cozy night in or a delightful starter at any meal. If you’ve ever had the chance to experience this indulgent soup from Atlanta Bread Company, you know exactly what I’m talking about. Now, imagine having the ability to recreate it at home. Whether you’re craving it for lunch, dinner, or even as a snack, making it yourself gives you full control over the flavors and texture-plus, it’s just so rewarding!

In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know to make this amazing potato soup at home-from ingredients to expert tips, variations, and much more. So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Atlanta Bread Company Potato Soup Recipe

The famous Atlanta Bread Company Potato Soup is a smooth, savory blend of potatoes, cream, and a mix of seasonings, creating a soup that’s both comforting and indulgent. What makes this version stand out is the balance of creamy texture without it feeling too heavy, paired with just the right amount of seasoning and depth of flavor. Here’s how you can recreate this iconic soup right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients Needed

For a big pot of comforting Atlanta Bread Company-inspired potato soup, here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 large Russet potatoes: These potatoes are perfect for a creamy texture and hearty flavor. They break down easily and provide that satisfying thickness that makes this soup so delicious.
• 1 medium onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
• 3 cloves garlic: Garlic is a game-changer for soups, giving it a rich, aromatic base that elevates the entire dish.
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth: This is the liquid base of the soup, which helps develop flavor without being too overwhelming. If you want to make the soup vegetarian, opt for vegetable broth.
• 2 cups heavy cream: This is the ingredient that gives the soup its signature richness. If you’re looking to lighten it up a bit, you can use half-and-half, but it won’t be quite as decadent.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds a richness that helps balance out the potato’s starchy texture and gives the soup a silky mouthfeel.
• Salt and pepper: These simple seasonings really bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.

• Optional Toppings

  • Shredded cheddar cheese: For a sharp, creamy kick.
  • Bacon bits: For that extra crunch and smoky flavor.
  • Chives or green onions: These bring a fresh, slightly sharp note to cut through the richness of the soup.
  • Sour cream: A dollop on top for a tangy contrast.

Cooking Instructions

Now that we’ve got our ingredients lined up, let’s get into the step-by-step process of making this creamy, dreamy potato soup.

1. Prep the potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes (you can leave the skins on for added texture if you prefer). Cut them into small cubes-about 1-inch pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and break down easily when you blend them later.
2. Sauté the onions and garlic: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent (about 3-4 minutes). This creates a flavorful base for the soup.
3. Cook the potatoes: Add the cubed potatoes to the pot with the onions and garlic. Stir them around for a minute or two to coat them in the butter and aromatics.
4. Add the broth and simmer: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, making sure the potatoes are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
5. Mash and blend: Once the potatoes are soft, you can either use a potato masher to break them down for a chunkier soup or use an immersion blender to smooth it all out. If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Be sure to leave some texture for that signature potato feel.
6. Add the cream: After blending, return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes until everything is well combined.
7. Season to taste: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika for extra depth of flavor.
8. Serve with toppings: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, chives, or a dollop of sour cream. The toppings really make this soup extra special.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in achieving that signature creamy, comforting texture and flavor:

• Russet potatoes: These potatoes are starchy and fluffy when cooked, which is ideal for making a thick, creamy soup. Their high starch content helps the soup naturally thicken as they break down in the broth.
• Heavy cream: The richness from the cream adds a smooth, velvety texture that elevates the soup, making it indulgent without being overly heavy. The cream also helps balance the natural starchiness of the potatoes.
• Chicken or vegetable broth: This liquid base is crucial for infusing the soup with flavor. The broth adds a savory depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Butter, garlic, and onion: These aromatics are essential for building the foundational flavor of the soup. The butter brings richness, while the garlic and onion add layers of savory notes.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcook the potatoes: If you cook the potatoes too long, they can turn into mush before you get a chance to blend them. Aim for fork-tender potatoes that still have some body.
• Add texture: If you prefer a chunkier soup, only mash some of the potatoes or use a potato masher for a more rustic texture. The blender can make the soup too smooth if you’re not careful.
• Balance the cream: While the heavy cream makes the soup rich, you can adjust how much you use based on your personal preference. Start with 2 cups and add more if you prefer a thicker, creamier soup.
• Use an immersion blender: For the best texture and ease of blending, use an immersion blender. It saves you from transferring the hot soup to a regular blender and keeps your hands clean!
• Season as you go: Taste the soup as it simmers, and adjust the salt and pepper throughout the cooking process for the best flavor balance.

Recipe Variations

While the classic potato soup is hard to beat, you can get creative with different twists:

• Cheesy potato soup: Add shredded cheddar cheese into the soup while it’s simmering for a rich, cheesy flavor. You can even blend it into the soup for a fully creamy cheese flavor.
• Loaded baked potato soup: Go the extra mile by topping your soup with bacon bits, cheddar cheese, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream for that classic loaded baked potato feel.
• Spicy potato soup: For some heat, add a few dashes of hot sauce, chili flakes, or even diced jalapeños during the simmering process. It adds a nice contrast to the creamy soup.
• Vegan version: To make it vegan-friendly, replace the butter with olive oil, the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, and use vegetable broth. The texture and flavor will still be rich and comforting.

Final Words

The Atlanta Bread Company Potato Soup is a rich, creamy delight that has all the qualities of a classic comfort food-hearty, satisfying, and utterly delicious. By following the simple steps outlined here, you’ll be able to bring that same warmth and flavor to your kitchen, no matter the season. Whether you’re looking for something to pair with a sandwich, enjoy as a main course, or serve up for a family dinner, this potato soup fits the bill. The great part is you can customize it with your favorite toppings and seasoning, ensuring every bowl is just how you like it.