There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, hearty bowl of potato soup. It’s a dish that speaks to the soul, offering a perfect balance of creamy texture, savory flavor, and a sense of nostalgia. Potato soup is one of those recipes that can be made in countless ways-each family or cook adding their own personal twist to the basic formula. But when we talk about a standout recipe, one that’s worth remembering, Logan’s Potato Soup stands out for its rich, velvety consistency and irresistible taste.
This particular recipe is special-easy to follow but complex in flavor. Whether you’re in need of a cozy dinner on a chilly evening or simply looking for a comforting dish to serve at a family gathering, Logan’s Potato Soup is guaranteed to impress.
Logan’s Potato Soup Recipe
So, what makes Logan’s Potato Soup so unforgettable? It’s a blend of simple ingredients like tender potatoes, flavorful broth, and a creamy base that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Here’s the step-by-step breakdown of how to make it.
Ingredients Needed
Before diving into the cooking, let’s gather everything we need to create this dish:
- Russet Potatoes (about 4 medium-sized)
- Butter (4 tablespoons, unsalted)
- Yellow Onion (1 medium, finely chopped)
- Garlic Cloves (3, minced)
- Chicken Broth (4 cups, or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- Whole Milk (2 cups)
- Heavy Cream (1 cup)
- Flour (2 tablespoons, for thickening)
- Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded, sharp or mild based on preference)
- Bacon (6 slices, cooked and crumbled)
- Green Onions (for garnish, optional)
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
These ingredients come together to create a rich, creamy texture with layers of flavor that make each spoonful a satisfying bite. It’s a perfect combination of savory, creamy, and just a hint of smokiness from the bacon.
Cooking Instructions
Now that we have everything we need, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and start cooking. Follow these steps to achieve the best potato soup you’ve ever tasted:
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Prep The Potatoes
- Wash and peel the russet potatoes. Cut them into evenly sized cubes (about 1-inch pieces). This ensures they cook evenly and give the soup that perfect texture.
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Cook The Bacon
- In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove it from the pot, set it aside on paper towels, and crumble it when it cools.
- Keep the bacon grease in the pot as it’ll add great flavor to the soup.
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Sauté The Onions And Garlic
- In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they soften and become translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Add The Potatoes And Broth
- Add the potato cubes to the pot and stir to combine.
- Pour in the chicken (or vegetable) broth and bring it to a simmer. Let the potatoes cook for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re fork-tender.
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Thicken The Soup
- While the potatoes are cooking, melt butter in a separate pan over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes to form a roux. This will help thicken the soup without clumping.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
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Combine The Roux With The Soup
- Once the potatoes are tender, slowly pour the creamy roux mixture into the pot with the potatoes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until the soup thickens to your desired consistency.
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Add Cheese And Bacon
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely, adding richness and flavor.
- Crumble in the crispy bacon and stir it all together. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve And Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra cheese, crumbled bacon, and green onions if desired.
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in Logan’s Potato Soup serves a specific purpose in enhancing the flavor and texture of the soup. Let’s break down why these ingredients are so essential:
- Russet Potatoes: Known for their starchy quality, russet potatoes help create a creamy, smooth base. Their texture holds up well during the cooking process, making them perfect for soups.
- Butter: Adds richness and depth to the flavor profile of the soup, creating a smooth, velvety mouthfeel.
- Yellow Onion and Garlic: These two aromatics form the foundation of the soup’s flavor. Onions offer sweetness, while garlic brings a savory, slightly pungent kick.
- Chicken Broth (or Vegetable Broth): This is the base liquid that provides a savory undertone to the soup, making it rich and full-bodied.
- Milk and Heavy Cream: Together, these dairy products create the creamy consistency that makes the soup so indulgent.
- Cheddar Cheese: The addition of cheese adds sharpness and a tangy flavor that balances the creaminess of the base.
- Bacon: Bacon not only adds a smoky flavor, but the crispy texture provides a delightful contrast to the soup’s creaminess.
- Green Onions: These are used as a garnish, giving a fresh, crisp bite that adds both visual appeal and a burst of flavor.
Expert Tips
Making Logan’s Potato Soup is relatively straightforward, but there are a few expert tips to keep in mind to elevate the dish to perfection:
- Don’t Skimp on the Bacon: The bacon not only adds flavor, but its crispy texture also provides a contrast to the smooth soup. Use thick-cut bacon for an extra indulgent touch.
- Blend for a Creamier Texture: If you like your soup ultra-smooth, consider blending part or all of the soup with an immersion blender or in a regular blender (in batches). This will create a velvety consistency.
- Adjust the Thickness: If your soup turns out too thick, simply add more broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, allow it to simmer longer to thicken.
- Season Gradually: Taste the soup as you cook, adjusting the seasoning (salt and pepper) little by little. This helps prevent over-seasoning and ensures the flavors develop harmoniously.
Recipe Variations
While Logan’s Potato Soup is already delicious, there are countless variations you can try to switch things up. Here are a few ideas:
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate some diced carrots, celery, or leeks for added texture and flavor. You could also add a handful of spinach or kale toward the end of cooking for a burst of color and nutrients.
- Spicy Version: If you like a bit of heat, try adding some diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the soup.
- Make It Vegan: Substitute the butter with olive oil, use a plant-based milk (like almond or oat), and swap the heavy cream with coconut cream. You can also skip the bacon and use vegan cheese for a completely plant-based version.
- Add Some Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken, sausage, or even shrimp. These proteins add an extra layer of flavor and make the soup even more filling.
- Swap the Cheese: Try different cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a blend of sharp and mild cheeses to give the soup a unique flavor profile.
Final Words
Logan’s Potato Soup is more than just a meal-it’s an experience. From the first whiff of garlic and onions sautéing in butter to the moment the rich, creamy soup hits your spoon, it’s a comforting reminder of the beauty in simple ingredients. The balance of flavors is exceptional: the smokiness from the bacon, the creaminess from the dairy, and the earthiness of the potatoes all meld together to create something extraordinary.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Required For Logan’s Potato Soup Recipe?
Logan’s potato soup recipe typically requires potatoes, onion, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, butter, flour, salt, pepper, and optional toppings like shredded cheese, bacon, and green onions.
Can I Make Logan’s Potato Soup Recipe In Advance?
Yes, Logan’s potato soup can be made in advance. Allow the soup to cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop before serving.
Can I Use A Different Type Of Potato In Logan’s Potato Soup Recipe?
Yes, you can use different types of potatoes such as russet, Yukon gold, or red potatoes. However, russets tend to break down more easily, giving the soup a creamier texture.
How Can I Make Logan’s Potato Soup Recipe Healthier?
To make Logan’s potato soup healthier, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative. Additionally, you can use low-sodium chicken broth, reduce the amount of butter, and skip or reduce the cheese and bacon toppings.
How Long Does It Take To Make Logan’s Potato Soup Recipe?
Logan’s potato soup typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour to prepare and cook, depending on the size of the potatoes and the heat of your stove.
Can I Make Logan’s Potato Soup Recipe In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can adapt Logan’s potato soup for a slow cooker. Simply sauté the onions and garlic, then add all the ingredients (except the cream and toppings) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours, and then stir in the cream before serving.
What Is The Best Way To Thicken Logan’s Potato Soup Recipe?
To thicken Logan’s potato soup, you can mash some of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot, or use a flour or cornstarch slurry. Another option is to purée a portion of the soup and then stir it back in for a creamy texture.
Can I Freeze Logan’s Potato Soup Recipe?
Yes, Logan’s potato soup can be frozen. To do so, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly on the stovetop, though the texture of potatoes may change slightly upon reheating.
What Are Some Common Variations Of Logan’s Potato Soup Recipe?
Common variations of Logan’s potato soup include adding bacon, using different cheese types such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, or incorporating vegetables like leeks, carrots, or celery for added flavor.
Can I Make Logan’s Potato Soup Recipe Vegetarian Or Vegan?
Yes, Logan’s potato soup can be made vegetarian or vegan by substituting the chicken broth with vegetable broth, using dairy-free butter and cream alternatives, and omitting bacon or other animal products.