Campbell’s Cream Of Potato Soup Recipe

Campbell’s Cream of Potato Soup is a comfort food classic that’s been a staple in many kitchens for decades. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a simple, cozy meal on a cold evening or add a touch of heartiness to a larger dinner spread, this soup delivers. With its smooth, velvety texture and rich, savory flavor, it’s no wonder this soup has stood the test of time.

But did you know that you can make this iconic soup right at home? You don’t need to rely on the can when you can prepare a delicious, homemade version from scratch. Making your own version allows you to control the ingredients, adjust the seasoning to your taste, and create a fresher, more personalized bowl of comfort.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about crafting Campbell’s Cream of Potato Soup from the ground up. From the essential ingredients to cooking techniques and tips for customization, we’ll cover it all. Let’s dive in!

Campbell’s Cream Of Potato Soup Recipe

Making Campbell’s-style Cream of Potato Soup at home is a straightforward and rewarding process. It’s a classic recipe with just a few ingredients, but with the right touches, you can elevate it into something even more delicious than you might find in a can. Here’s a detailed recipe to get you started:

Ingredients Needed

• 2 lbs of russet potatoes – These potatoes are starchy and make for a creamy base when cooked down.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped – Adds flavor and depth to the soup base.
• 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth – Provides the necessary liquid for the soup.
• 1 ½ cups of whole milk – For creaminess and richness.
• ½ cup of heavy cream – Boosts the creamy texture to give the soup that velvety smooth finish.
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter – Adds richness and helps sauté the onions.
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder – For added savory flavor.
• 1 teaspoon of salt – Essential for seasoning.
• ½ teaspoon of black pepper – A touch of heat and balance.
• Chopped chives or parsley (optional) – For garnish and a pop of color.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare The Potatoes

   Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes (about 1-inch pieces). This helps them cook faster and makes the blending process smoother later.

2. Cook The Vegetables

   In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the garlic powder, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine and allowing the flavors to bloom.

3. Add The Broth And Potatoes

   Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Add the diced potatoes to the pot, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

4. Mash The Potatoes

   Once the potatoes are soft, use a potato masher to mash them directly in the pot. You want a slightly chunky texture, but if you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to puree it further.

5. Add Dairy And Simmer

   Stir in the whole milk and heavy cream, ensuring that the soup becomes velvety and rich. Continue to simmer on low for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Adjust the seasoning to your taste at this stage.

6. Serve

   Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chives or parsley for a burst of color. Enjoy your homemade cream of potato soup!

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in creating the perfect cream of potato soup:

• Russet Potatoes: These potatoes have a high starch content, making them ideal for creating a smooth, creamy texture when mashed or blended. They also have a neutral flavor that allows the broth and seasonings to shine.
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth: The broth serves as the liquid foundation of the soup, providing essential depth of flavor. Chicken broth adds a savory richness, while vegetable broth keeps the dish light and vegetarian-friendly.
• Whole Milk and Heavy Cream: The combination of milk and heavy cream gives the soup its luscious, smooth texture and rich flavor. The milk adds creaminess without overwhelming the taste, while the heavy cream contributes a luxurious richness.
• Butter: Essential for sautéing the onions and creating a flavorful base for the soup. The butter also contributes to the soup’s silky texture.
• Garlic Powder and Onion: These aromatics are the backbone of the soup’s flavor. Onions provide sweetness and depth, while garlic powder adds a savory punch without the need for fresh garlic.
• Chives or Parsley: Fresh herbs are optional, but they provide a wonderful pop of color and freshness to balance the richness of the soup.

Expert Tips

To make your homemade cream of potato soup even better, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:

• Use Starchy Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the key to a creamy texture. If you use waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds, you may not get the same smooth result.
• Don’t Skip the Butter: While it might seem like a small step, sautéing the onions in butter adds so much flavor to the soup. The richness of the butter infuses the entire dish.
• Adjust the Texture: If you want a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to puree the soup after mashing the potatoes. If you prefer a chunky texture, just mash lightly or leave some potato chunks intact.
• Season Well: Taste the soup as it cooks and adjust the salt and pepper. Adding a pinch of salt during different stages of cooking helps build flavor.
• Add Cheese: For an even richer version of this soup, melt in some shredded cheddar cheese after the dairy has been added. This creates a creamy, cheesy potato soup that’s absolutely delicious.

Recipe Variations

While the traditional version of Campbell’s Cream of Potato Soup is classic for a reason, there are plenty of ways you can get creative with the recipe:

• Bacon Lovers: Add crispy crumbled bacon to the soup for an extra layer of smokiness and crunch. You can either stir the bacon into the soup or sprinkle it on top as a garnish.
• Herb-Infused: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves can elevate the flavor of the soup. Simply add a sprig or two of fresh herbs while simmering the potatoes and remove them before serving.
• Spicy Potato Soup: Kick things up a notch by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños for a spicy twist on this classic recipe.
• Vegan Version: Swap the butter for olive oil, use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of dairy, and use vegetable broth to create a vegan-friendly version of this soup that’s just as creamy and comforting.
• Cheddar & Chive: For a flavor-packed variation, stir in some shredded cheddar cheese and chopped chives into the soup right before serving. It adds both texture and a sharper, tangy flavor.

Final Words

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making a homemade version of a canned soup classic. This cream of potato soup recipe not only tastes better but allows you to adjust everything to your personal preference. Whether you like it extra creamy or prefer a little more texture, the possibilities are endless.

Homemade soups are a great way to warm up during the colder months, and they’re an ideal meal for a busy day when you want something comforting yet easy to prepare. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day, making this a dish that’s worth repeating.