This creamy gluten-free potato soup is warming and rich! It’s packed with tender potatoes and bursting with flavors. Perfect for chilly days when you need a cozy meal!
You won’t believe how easy it is to make! Just boil the potatoes and blend everything together. I love adding a sprinkle of cheese on top—because who can resist that cheesy goodness? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are my favorite for a smooth texture. If you find yourself without russets, Yukon Gold potatoes work well too—they add a buttery flavor.
Broth: I like chicken broth for added flavor, but for a vegetarian option, vegetable broth is just as good! You could also use bone broth for a richer taste.
Milk/Cream: Heavy cream gives a luxurious richness, but you can use half-and-half or even almond milk for a lighter version. Just make sure it’s unsweetened if you go dairy-free.
Bacon: For a vegetarian twist, try using mushrooms or tempeh bacon. They can provide a similar umami flavor without the meat.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or a dairy-free cheese if needed!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Creamy Texture?
Getting that creamy texture in your potato soup is all about blending. Here are some tips:
- Cook your potatoes until tender; they break down easily this way.
- An immersion blender is super handy for blending right in the pot. If using a blender, let the soup cool slightly to avoid splatter.
- If you like a chunkier soup, blend just half of the batch and mix it back in for great texture.
Don’t rush this step; patience ensures a velvety finish! Enjoy creating a comforting bowl of soup that warms you up.
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Gluten-Free Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian version)
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 3 green onions, sliced (separate white and green parts)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious gluten-free potato soup will take about 30-40 minutes in total: around 10 minutes for prep and another 20-30 minutes for cooking and blending. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet comforting enough for a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Bacon:
In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. This adds a wonderful flavor to your soup! Once done, remove the bacon and drain it on paper towels. Make sure to crumble it into bite-sized pieces when it’s cool. Don’t forget to reserve about 1-2 tablespoons of the bacon grease left in the pot!
2. Sautéing the Aromatics:
Add the butter to the bacon grease in the pot. Once it’s melted, toss in the chopped onion and the minced garlic. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant—this step really builds that delicious flavor!
3. Adding the Potatoes:
Now, add the diced potatoes into the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are very tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it simmers!
4. Blending Until Smooth:
Once the potatoes are tender, it’s time to blend! Use an immersion blender to puree everything until it’s smooth and creamy. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender, and then return it to the pot once blended.
5. Finishing Touches:
Now stir in the milk or cream along with the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through. It should be looking creamy and delicious!
6. Seasoning to Taste:
Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This is your chance to adjust the flavors. Feel free to add more if you like!
7. Serving:
Serve your warm potato soup hot! Top it with the crumbled bacon, sliced green onions (use the green parts for a pop of color!), and some extra shredded cheese. If you want, sprinkle a bit of fresh thyme on top for a lovely garnish!
Now sit back, enjoy, and savor every comforting bite of this rich and flavorful soup. Perfect for any cozy meal!
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Can I Use Dairy Alternatives for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or even oat milk for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor and creaminess.
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Yes, to make it vegan, substitute the bacon with a plant-based alternative like smoked tempeh or omit it entirely. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and opt for coconut milk or any dairy-free cream to keep the creaminess.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of liquid if it thickens too much.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It will last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove.