When the chill of fall or winter hits, nothing satisfies quite like a hearty, creamy soup. One of the classics that’s become a beloved comfort food across the country is the Olive Garden Potato Soup. Its creamy texture, loaded with tender potatoes, savory seasonings, and just the right amount of flavor, makes it the kind of dish that you crave on a cold evening. And the best part? You don’t have to visit the restaurant to enjoy it. You can easily whip up a delicious version of this crowd-pleaser at home!
This homemade version of Olive Garden’s Potato Soup offers all the goodness of the original with a few tweaks that make it even more customizable to your preferences. Let’s dive into how you can make this soup, from what ingredients to gather to the simple steps for preparation.
Olive Garden Potato Soup Recipe
This recipe is designed to make a creamy, comforting potato soup that’s as rich and satisfying as the one served at Olive Garden. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures-creamy, chunky, and packed with all the right seasonings.
Ingredients Needed
- Russet Potatoes (5-6 medium-sized): The star of the show! These starchy potatoes hold their shape well when cooked and contribute to the soup’s creamy texture.
- Bacon (4-5 slices): Bacon adds a smoky, savory element that makes this soup irresistible.
- Yellow Onion (1 medium): A key aromatic that helps build a flavorful base.
- Garlic (2-3 cloves): For that punch of flavor that brings everything together.
- Chicken Broth (4 cups): This acts as the soup’s liquid foundation. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): For a rich, velvety texture.
- Whole Milk (1 cup): Combines with the heavy cream to give the soup its creamy consistency without being overly thick.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): The essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
- Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded): Sharp cheddar adds both creaminess and a little tang to balance the richness.
- Green Onions (1 bunch, chopped): For garnish, providing a slight crunch and a burst of fresh flavor.
- Sour Cream (optional): If you want an extra creamy touch to your bowl, sour cream does wonders.
Cooking Instructions
This Olive Garden-style potato soup comes together quickly and is relatively hands-off once you get things going. Here’s how to do it:
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Prepare The Potatoes
- Peel and cube the russet potatoes into small, bite-sized pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and blend well with the soup’s creamy texture.
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Cook The Bacon
- In a large soup pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy (about 7-10 minutes). Remove the bacon, chop it into small pieces, and set aside. Keep the bacon drippings in the pot for added flavor.
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Sauté The Aromatics
- Using the bacon fat, sauté the chopped onion for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent. Add in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release its fragrance.
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Add Potatoes And Broth
- Add the cubed potatoes to the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to low once it starts boiling, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
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Mash The Potatoes
- Once the potatoes are soft, take a potato masher and mash them slightly right in the pot. You don’t need to fully mash them; leave some chunks to give the soup texture. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to blend it to your desired consistency.
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Add Dairy
- Pour in the heavy cream and milk. Stir to combine. Let the soup simmer on low heat for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is where the soup gets its velvety texture.
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Stir In Cheese And Bacon
- Add in the shredded cheddar cheese and reserved chopped bacon. Stir until the cheese is fully melted, and the soup is creamy and cohesive.
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Season And Serve
- Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Serve in bowls, topped with extra cheddar cheese, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Ingredient Insights
When it comes to making a soup that’s as rich and satisfying as Olive Garden’s, the ingredients play a pivotal role in ensuring you capture that signature flavor.
- Russet Potatoes: These potatoes are ideal because they have a high starch content that makes them perfect for creamy soups. The starch helps thicken the broth, creating that smooth consistency without the need for any thickening agents.
- Bacon: Beyond the obvious flavor boost, bacon provides texture contrast to the creamy soup, adding a bit of crunch and a salty, smoky finish that rounds out the dish beautifully.
- Heavy Cream and Milk: The combination of these two gives the soup the perfect amount of richness without being overwhelmingly heavy. The milk keeps it light, while the cream provides the desired indulgence.
- Cheddar Cheese: The sharp, tangy flavor of cheddar perfectly balances the richness of the soup, creating a comforting depth of flavor.
- Green Onions: These are not just for garnish but add a fresh, slightly peppery bite that cuts through the richness of the soup.
Expert Tips
- Use a Potato Masher or Immersion Blender: If you want a smoother texture, using an immersion blender will give the soup a velvety consistency. However, if you prefer some texture, stick with a potato masher for a rustic, chunky soup.
- Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: The potatoes should be soft but not falling apart completely. Overcooking can lead to a mushy soup, so keep an eye on them while simmering.
- Customize the Cheese: While cheddar is traditional, you can also try other cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack for a twist. Mixing different cheeses can elevate the flavor.
- Make Ahead: This soup is actually even better the next day after the flavors have had a chance to meld. Make a big batch, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat it gently when you’re ready to serve.
- Add Spices for a Kick: If you want to give your soup a little heat, try adding red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. Just a pinch will add a delightful warmth to the soup.
Recipe Variations
The beauty of potato soup is how flexible it is! Here are some variations you can try:
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon, and substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth. Add extra seasonings, like smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke, to mimic the depth of flavor that bacon provides.
- Loaded Potato Soup: If you want to make this soup even more indulgent, load it up with additional toppings like crispy fried onions, extra cheddar, or even crumbled blue cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
- Spicy Potato Soup: For a spicy twist, add jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or chili powder. These additions will give your soup a satisfying heat that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture.
- Vegan Version: Swap out the dairy for plant-based milk (like coconut or almond milk) and use vegan cheese. Instead of bacon, you can use tempeh bacon or smoked tofu for a smoky flavor.
Final Words
This Olive Garden-inspired potato soup is an incredible dish to make for any occasion. It’s easy, comforting, and packed with rich flavors that are guaranteed to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to serve at a family gathering, this soup fits the bill.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For The Olive Garden Potato Soup Recipe?
The main ingredients for Olive Garden potato soup include russet potatoes, butter, olive oil, onions, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, milk, bacon, green onions, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and parsley.
Can I Make The Olive Garden Potato Soup Recipe Without Bacon?
Yes, you can make the soup without bacon. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can omit the bacon and substitute it with additional seasonings or smoked paprika for flavor.
How Long Does It Take To Cook The Olive Garden Potato Soup?
The total cooking time for Olive Garden potato soup is around 45 to 60 minutes. This includes preparation time and simmering the soup to allow the flavors to meld together.
What Type Of Potatoes Should I Use For The Olive Garden Potato Soup Recipe?
Russet potatoes are recommended for the Olive Garden potato soup recipe. They have a high starch content, which helps create a creamy, smooth texture when the potatoes break down during cooking.
Can I Make The Olive Garden Potato Soup Recipe Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time. In fact, the flavors often improve after sitting for a few hours or overnight. Just store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and reheat it when ready to serve.
Can I Freeze Olive Garden Potato Soup?
While it is possible to freeze Olive Garden potato soup, the texture of the potatoes may change after freezing and thawing. To minimize this, try to freeze the soup without the cream and add it after reheating.
Can I Use Half-and-half Instead Of Heavy Cream In The Olive Garden Potato Soup Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream. This will result in a lighter version of the soup, though the texture may be slightly less rich and creamy.
What Can I Serve With Olive Garden Potato Soup?
Olive Garden potato soup pairs well with a variety of sides, such as a crisp salad, garlic bread, or a slice of toasted baguette. It can also be served as a main dish for a comforting meal.
How Do I Thicken Olive Garden Potato Soup If It’s Too Watery?
If the soup is too watery, you can thicken it by mashing some of the potatoes in the soup or by adding a small amount of cornstarch or flour mixed with water to create a slurry. Simmer the soup until it reaches your desired thickness.
Is The Olive Garden Potato Soup Recipe Gluten-free?
The Olive Garden potato soup recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free chicken broth and avoid any gluten-containing ingredients such as flour-based thickeners. Be sure to check labels for any potential sources of gluten.