Applebee’s Potato Soup Recipe

Applebee’s potato soup is a comforting, hearty dish that’s become a favorite for many, whether you’re dining in or enjoying a cozy night at home. The creamy texture, combined with savory bacon, rich potatoes, and just the right seasoning, creates a flavor profile that is irresistibly comforting. If you’ve ever wondered how to recreate this delicious bowl of goodness in your own kitchen, you’re in for a treat.

In this detailed guide, we’ll take you through every step of the process to make Applebee’s-style potato soup from scratch. We’ll break down the ingredients you’ll need, walk you through the cooking instructions, provide expert tips to ensure success, and suggest some fun variations to mix things up. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and absolutely rewarding.

Applebee’s Potato Soup Recipe

This recipe is a rich, creamy, and satisfying version of the famous soup served at Applebee’s restaurants. By recreating the key elements-crispy bacon, creamy potatoes, and a balanced mix of seasonings-you can easily bring that same mouthwatering flavor to your own table.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s a complete list of what you’ll need to make Applebee’s-style potato soup:

Base Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes (peeled and diced)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 1 clove of garlic (minced)
• 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Seasonings & Flavor Add-ins

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme, if preferred)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (for a hint of smokiness)
• A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)

Toppings (optional But Highly Recommended)

• 6 slices of bacon (crisply cooked and crumbled)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Fresh chives or green onions (finely chopped)

Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these steps to recreate Applebee’s potato soup in your own kitchen.

1. Cook The Bacon

   Start by cooking the bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. You want it crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside on a paper towel to drain. Save about 2 tablespoons of the bacon drippings in the pot for flavor.

2. Prepare The Potatoes

   While the bacon is cooking, peel and dice the potatoes into small, bite-sized chunks. Add the diced potatoes directly into the pot with the bacon drippings. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.

3. Sauté Onion & Garlic

   Add the chopped onion to the pot with the potatoes and sauté until translucent (around 3-4 minutes). Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute. This step brings out the depth of flavor in the soup.

4. Add Broth And Simmer

   Pour in the chicken (or vegetable) broth. Stir everything together, bring to a boil, and then reduce to a simmer. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are soft and fully cooked through.

5. Thicken The Soup

   In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes until it forms a thick paste (a roux). Slowly add the milk and cream to the roux while continuously stirring to avoid lumps. Once smooth, pour the cream mixture into the simmering soup and stir well.

6. Simmer & Season

   Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup thickens to your desired consistency. Add salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using), and taste for seasoning. Adjust as needed.

7. Finish With Toppings

   Just before serving, crumble the cooked bacon and add it to the soup along with shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream. Garnish with fresh chives or green onions for a burst of color and flavor.

8. Serve And Enjoy!

   Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad. It’s a meal that’s perfect for any season, but especially cozy on cold nights!

Ingredient Insights

Here’s a closer look at the key ingredients in this recipe:

• Russet Potatoes: These potatoes are ideal because of their starchy texture, which helps create a creamy and velvety soup. They break down slightly when cooked, thickening the broth naturally.
• Heavy Cream & Milk: Combining heavy cream and whole milk creates the perfect balance of creaminess and richness. If you want to lighten the soup, you can reduce the amount of cream or substitute with half-and-half.
• Bacon: The crispy bacon not only adds flavor but also texture. It’s a must-have for that smokey, savory kick that complements the creamy potatoes.
• Cheddar Cheese: The shredded cheddar cheese adds sharpness and depth to the soup. Make sure to use a good-quality sharp cheddar for the best results.
• Seasonings: The thyme, paprika, and cayenne pepper (optional) bring a balance of earthy, smoky, and subtle heat to the soup, taking it from ordinary to extraordinary.

Expert Tips

To make sure your Applebee’s potato soup turns out perfectly, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:

• Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Keep an eye on your potatoes while they’re simmering. Overcooking them can cause them to fall apart too much, turning the soup into a mushy mess. You want them soft but still holding their shape.
• Use a Starchier Potato: Russet potatoes are perfect for this soup, but you can also experiment with Yukon Gold potatoes for a smoother texture.
• Make Ahead: This soup actually gets better the next day as the flavors meld together. Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently over low heat when you’re ready to serve.
• Adjust the Consistency: If the soup becomes too thick after cooling, simply add a little extra broth or milk to loosen it up when reheating.
• Add Some Heat: For those who like a little spice, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup an extra kick.

Recipe Variations

Want to mix things up a bit? Here are some fun variations of the classic Applebee’s potato soup:

• Vegan Version: Swap the heavy cream, milk, and butter for coconut milk, almond milk, and vegan butter. Use plant-based bacon for the topping, or skip it entirely for a meat-free alternative.
• Loaded Potato Soup: Add additional toppings like sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or even a dollop of guacamole for a fun twist on the classic.
• Cheesy Bacon Soup: If you love cheese, try adding more than just cheddar-think Gruyère or Monterey Jack for an extra creamy, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Spicy Potato Soup: Add chopped jalapeños or diced green chilies to the soup base for an extra bit of heat. You could also sprinkle some chili powder or cayenne pepper for a smoky punch.

Final Words

Applebee’s potato soup is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. With its creamy, savory base, crispy bacon, and fresh toppings, it’s perfect for almost any occasion, whether you’re entertaining guests or just indulging in a cozy night in. This homemade version is just as satisfying as the restaurant version-and perhaps even better because it’s made with love in your own kitchen.