When the weather starts to turn chilly, or when you’re craving something comforting yet quick and affordable, Aldi’s soup recipes are a perfect go-to. Whether you’re in need of a cozy bowl of creamy goodness or a hearty, chunky broth brimming with flavor, Aldi has got you covered with a variety of budget-friendly ingredients that come together to create an amazing soup.

But it’s not just about saving money at Aldi-it’s about making meals that satisfy your taste buds and fill your stomach. This Aldi soup recipe will teach you how to make a delicious soup that’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and incredibly budget-friendly. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this tasty adventure!

Aldi Soup Recipe

Today, we’re focusing on a simple yet rich and satisfying Aldi-inspired creamy potato soup. It’s one of those soups that’s so hearty and smooth that it feels like a warm hug in a bowl. This recipe incorporates classic ingredients you can find at Aldi, making it easy for anyone to whip it up without breaking the bank.

The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. It doesn’t require any fancy ingredients, but it does rely on quality items you can easily find at Aldi’s affordable price points. The creamy texture combined with tender potatoes and savory flavors makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser, perfect for dinner or even as a starter at your next gathering.

Ingredients Needed

Before you start cooking, let’s take a look at everything you’ll need to make this creamy potato soup. Here’s your shopping list:

  • 4 large potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold work best, but you can mix it up!)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (you can substitute with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, but it gives a great depth of flavor)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, but highly recommended for an extra creamy touch)
  • Chopped green onions or chives for garnish
  • Bacon bits (optional, but let’s be real-who doesn’t love bacon in their soup?)

Now that you’ve got everything ready, it’s time to dive into the cooking process!

Cooking Instructions

Making this soup is incredibly straightforward, so let’s break it down step-by-step:

  1. Prep The Potatoes

    • Wash and peel the potatoes. Cut them into small chunks (about 1-inch pieces) so they cook evenly.
  2. Sauté The Onions And Garlic

    • Heat the olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter melts, add the chopped onions and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
    • Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Cook The Potatoes

    • Add the chopped potatoes to the pot and give everything a good stir to coat the potatoes with the onions and garlic.
    • Sprinkle in the dried thyme, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  4. Add The Broth

    • Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and easily mashable.
  5. Blend The Soup (optional, For Creaminess)

    • Once the potatoes are cooked, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it’s smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender (just be careful with hot liquids).
    • If you prefer a chunkier texture, skip this step and just mash a few of the potatoes with a spoon or potato masher in the pot.
  6. Add The Cream

    • Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 5 minutes to bring it all together. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  7. Serve And Garnish

    • Ladle the soup into bowls, then top with shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and freshly chopped green onions or chives for an extra pop of color and flavor.
  8. Enjoy!

    • Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread on the side for dipping!

Ingredient Insights

Let’s take a moment to talk about some of the ingredients used in this Aldi-inspired creamy potato soup, and why they’re so essential:

  • Potatoes: The heart of any potato soup. Russet potatoes are often preferred for their starchy texture, which helps create a creamy, velvety base. Yukon Gold potatoes, on the other hand, are buttery and slightly waxy, which can lend a richer mouthfeel.
  • Chicken Broth: A good chicken broth forms the foundation of flavor in many soups. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, Aldi offers vegetable broth as a great alternative that still provides a deep, savory base.
  • Heavy Cream: This ingredient is key for achieving that smooth, rich consistency. It adds a decadent creaminess that really makes the soup indulgent. If you want to reduce the fat content, feel free to swap it out for half-and-half or milk.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Not only does cheese add an extra layer of creaminess, but it also imparts a sharp, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the potatoes.
  • Thyme & Paprika: These two spices elevate the soup’s flavor without overpowering it. Thyme gives the soup an herbal, earthy note, while paprika (especially smoked) adds depth and a subtle smokiness.

Expert Tips

If you want to take your soup to the next level, here are a few expert tips to elevate the flavor:

  • Use a mix of potatoes: Combining Russet potatoes with a waxier variety like Yukon Gold or red potatoes can give you the best of both worlds. Russets break down more, making the soup thicker, while Yukon Golds add a buttery flavor and texture.
  • Let it sit: Soups often taste better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together. Make it the day before and let it sit in the fridge for a few hours or overnight for even more flavor.
  • Top it off with extras: A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of crispy fried onions on top can add an extra touch of flavor and texture. Bacon bits are an obvious choice, but even sautéed mushrooms or roasted garlic can elevate the dish.
  • Make it spicy: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Recipe Variations

One of the best things about soups is how customizable they are. Here are a few variations you can try with this recipe:

  • Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Add cooked bacon, green onions, and a little extra cheese to make it feel like you’re eating a loaded baked potato in soup form.
  • Vegan Version: Swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Leave out the cheese and bacon bits for a completely plant-based version.
  • Add Vegetables: You can easily bulk up this soup by adding other vegetables like carrots, celery, or leeks. Just chop them finely and sauté them along with the onions and garlic.
  • Herb-infused: Try experimenting with different herbs like rosemary, sage, or basil to bring in a unique twist.

Final Words

This Aldi creamy potato soup is more than just a meal-it’s an experience. From the first spoonful of creamy goodness to the final comforting bite, it’s a bowl of warmth that can turn any cold evening into something special. The ingredients are simple, but the outcome is anything but basic. Plus, the fact that it’s affordable makes it even better.

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