Aubrey’s Potato Soup Recipe

Potato soup is the ultimate comfort food. It’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor, perfect for warming you up on a chilly day. If you’re a fan of cozy meals, Aubrey’s Potato Soup is a recipe you’ll want to add to your kitchen repertoire. This isn’t just any potato soup; it’s a version packed with delicious layers of texture, depth, and, most importantly, heartwarming flavors. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a quiet night in, this soup will be a hit.

In this article, I’m going to break down everything you need to know about Aubrey’s Potato Soup-how to make it, what ingredients to use, and even some handy tips for making it your own. If you’re looking to elevate your soup game or simply find a new go-to recipe, you’re in the right place.

Aubrey’s Potato Soup Recipe

This recipe is designed to deliver a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying potato soup with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques. What sets it apart is its depth of flavor, achieved through sautéing aromatics, using high-quality stock, and blending some of the soup for a perfectly smooth texture. Every spoonful is the perfect balance of savory and creamy, with just the right amount of seasoning. Here’s how you can make it at home:

Ingredients Needed

• 6 large russet potatoes – Russets are ideal because they have a starchy texture that creates a creamy base when cooked.
• 1 medium onion – Adds a savory and slightly sweet base flavor to the soup.
• 3 cloves garlic – For a fragrant, aromatic punch that will elevate the entire dish.
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth – Use homemade if possible, but store-bought works too.
• 1 cup heavy cream – For the rich and velvety finish.
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese – For that unmistakable cheesy goodness.
• 4 strips of bacon – Adds a crispy, smoky texture that brings out a savory contrast to the creamy soup.
• 2 tablespoons butter – For sautéing the onions and garlic, adding richness.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Always essential to bring out the flavors.
• Fresh chives or green onions – For garnish, bringing a touch of color and a slight oniony zing.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prep the Potatoes: Start by peeling the russet potatoes and cutting them into small chunks. This helps them cook faster and allows them to break down easily when blended later.
2. Cook the Bacon: In a large pot, fry the bacon strips over medium heat until they are crispy. Remove them, crumble, and set aside. Save the bacon drippings in the pot for extra flavor in the soup.
3. Sauté Onions & Garlic: In the same pot, add the butter to the bacon fat and sauté the diced onion for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 2 minutes, letting it become fragrant.
4. Add the Potatoes and Broth: Toss in the potato chunks and pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily break apart with a fork.
5. Mash and Blend: Once the potatoes are soft, use a potato masher to partially mash the soup. For a smoother texture, you can blend about half of the soup with an immersion blender (or transfer to a regular blender), leaving some chunks for texture.
6. Stir in Cream and Cheese: Add the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese to the soup, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated. Taste the soup, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each with crumbled bacon, fresh chives, and extra cheese if you like. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Ingredient Insights

• Russet Potatoes: These potatoes are starchy, which makes them ideal for creating a creamy texture when boiled. Their skin is thick, so they hold their shape well, allowing you to create a smooth soup with chunks of potato in every spoonful.
• Heavy Cream: Heavy cream is the secret to giving your soup that ultra-creamy, rich texture. It balances the natural starchiness of the potatoes while adding that luxurious mouthfeel that makes this soup a real treat.
• Bacon: Bacon isn’t just for crunch-it adds an irresistible smoky flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup. It’s the type of ingredient that takes a dish from good to great, with each crispy bite adding depth.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a bold flavor that cuts through the richness of the soup. You could go for milder cheese, but the sharp variety adds a nice tangy kick that complements the potatoes.

Expert Tips

• Use Fresh Stock: If you have the time, use homemade chicken or vegetable stock for the most flavorful base. It’s easy to make and makes a big difference in how your soup turns out.
• Customize the Texture: If you prefer a smoother soup, feel free to blend all of it, or leave it chunkier for a more rustic, hearty feel. Some people love the creaminess of an entirely pureed soup, while others enjoy the contrast of mashed potatoes mixed with soft chunks.
• Add a Little Spice: If you’re into spice, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce will bring a nice kick to the soup without overpowering it.
• Leftovers Are Even Better: Potato soup often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Recipe Variations

• Vegan Potato Soup: Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream and omit the bacon. Use vegetable broth for the base. You can still add vegan cheese to keep it cheesy!
• Loaded Potato Soup: If you love a fully-loaded potato experience, top your soup with crispy bacon bits, sour cream, chopped green onions, and extra cheese.
• Spicy Southwest Potato Soup: Add diced jalapeños, cumin, and smoked paprika for a southwestern twist. You can also throw in some black beans or corn for added texture.

Final Words

Aubrey’s Potato Soup is one of those recipes that checks all the boxes-it’s creamy, cheesy, savory, and comforting in the best way. The combination of flavors and textures makes it feel indulgent without being overly complicated. Whether you serve it as a main dish or as a side, it’s sure to become a family favorite.