When you think of comfort food, there’s something undeniably satisfying about a bowl of warm, hearty soup. And one soup that has become a household favorite over the years is Panera Bread’s Rustic Potato Soup. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with savory flavors. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a chilly evening or want something filling for lunch, this soup checks all the boxes.
But what makes it so irresistible? It’s the blend of perfectly seasoned potatoes, smoky bacon, and rich cream that create a balance of textures and flavors. The good news? You don’t have to leave your home to enjoy this culinary delight. Making your own Panera-inspired rustic potato soup is surprisingly easy. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Panera Rustic Potato Soup Recipe
If you’ve ever visited a Panera Bread, you probably remember the comforting, creamy bowl of rustic potato soup. Its smooth texture, combined with tender chunks of potato and smoky bacon, makes it a perfect choice for any season. The beauty of this recipe is that it requires just a few simple ingredients but comes together to create something extraordinary. So, let’s get started!
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this savory soup to life:
- Potatoes (4-5 medium-sized Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes): The heart of this soup. These varieties are perfect for making a creamy base while still holding some texture.
- Bacon (6-8 strips): The smoky, salty goodness that elevates the soup to another level. You can use turkey bacon for a leaner version if preferred.
- Butter (3 tablespoons): For sautéing the vegetables and adding richness.
- Onion (1 medium): Adds a slightly sweet, savory flavor when sautéed.
- Carrot (1 large): A subtle sweetness and texture.
- Garlic (3 cloves): For that aromatic depth that complements the richness of the soup.
- Flour (3 tablespoons): Helps to thicken the soup, making it creamy.
- Chicken broth (4 cups): The base of the soup, adding a savory layer of flavor.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): For that luscious creaminess that makes every spoonful feel indulgent.
- Milk (1 cup): Balances the heaviness of the cream and keeps the soup from being overly rich.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): The seasoning essentials to bring out all the flavors.
- Chives or green onions (for garnish): Adds a fresh and vibrant touch on top of your soup.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional, but highly recommended for a cheesy twist!): Because, let’s face it, who doesn’t love a sprinkle of cheese on top?
Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s break it down step-by-step, so you can create this delicious, restaurant-quality soup in the comfort of your own kitchen.
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Prep The Ingredients
- Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes. If you want a chunkier texture, feel free to leave some of the skins on.
- Dice the onion, carrot, and garlic. Set them aside for easy access while cooking.
- Cut the bacon into small pieces.
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Cook The Bacon
- In a large pot, heat the bacon pieces over medium heat. Cook until they’re crispy and golden brown. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Once done, remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel to drain excess grease. Keep the rendered bacon fat in the pot-it adds so much flavor.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the butter and melt it over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced onion, carrot, and garlic.
- Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Be sure to stir occasionally so the garlic doesn’t burn.
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Thicken The Soup
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir for about 2 minutes. This step helps create a roux that will thicken the soup.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring, making sure there are no lumps.
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Cook The Potatoes
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot, then bring everything to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender but not falling apart.
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Add The Cream And Milk
- Stir in the heavy cream and milk. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes to combine the flavors and let the soup thicken slightly.
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Final Touches
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes if you like some heat.
- Once the soup is at the perfect consistency, stir in the crispy bacon bits you set aside earlier.
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Serve And Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped chives (or green onions).
Ingredient Insights
Let’s dive deeper into why these ingredients work so perfectly together:
- Potatoes: The foundation of this soup. Russet potatoes are ideal because they break down a little during cooking, creating a naturally creamy texture. Yukon Golds, on the other hand, hold their shape better and provide a smooth, buttery texture when blended.
- Bacon: Adds a smoky richness that cuts through the creaminess. Plus, who doesn’t love crispy bacon crumbled on top of a bowl of hot soup?
- Heavy Cream and Milk: The combination of these two is key. Heavy cream brings indulgent richness, while milk keeps the soup from feeling too heavy. Together, they create the perfect creamy base.
- Flour: Used as a thickening agent, flour helps turn the broth into the luscious, velvety soup that clings to the spoon.
Expert Tips
To elevate this rustic potato soup to the next level, here are some tips and tricks from the pros:
- Don’t rush the sautéing: Taking your time to cook the onions, carrots, and garlic slowly will bring out their sweetness and depth of flavor. A little caramelization goes a long way!
- Use a mix of potatoes: If you want the best of both worlds, try mixing Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes. The former gives a creamy texture, while the latter holds up better and adds a bit of texture to the soup.
- Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot, or even use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup for a smoother texture.
- Leftovers: This soup actually gets better after sitting in the fridge overnight. The flavors meld and develop, so don’t hesitate to make a big batch and enjoy it the next day.
Recipe Variations
While the traditional rustic potato soup is amazing on its own, there are plenty of ways to switch things up and add a twist:
- Cheesy Potato Soup: Add extra shredded cheddar or even a mix of cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan to make it extra cheesy.
- Add Veggies: Throw in some spinach, kale, or leeks for added nutrition and flavor. A handful of frozen peas can also be a nice touch.
- Spicy Version: Add a diced jalapeño or sprinkle in some chili powder to bring a little heat. Top with a dollop of sour cream to balance it out.
- Vegan Twist: Substitute the bacon with tempeh bacon or skip it altogether. Use coconut milk or oat milk instead of dairy for a vegan-friendly version.
Final Words
If you’ve been dreaming of recreating that comforting bowl of Panera’s rustic potato soup, now you have the recipe that brings it all together. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic steps, you can enjoy a rich and creamy soup that rivals the original. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner, meal prep, or simply because you love soup, this recipe is sure to impress.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For The Panera Rustic Potato Soup Recipe?
The ingredients for the Panera rustic potato soup recipe include russet potatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, butter, onion, garlic, flour, milk, thyme, bay leaves, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley for garnish.
How Do I Make The Panera Rustic Potato Soup Creamy?
To make the soup creamy, you can use heavy cream and milk as the base. Additionally, blending part of the soup will help create a smoother texture. For a richer flavor, you can add more butter or a splash of half-and-half.
Can I Make The Panera Rustic Potato Soup Recipe Vegan?
Yes, you can make the soup vegan by substituting the chicken broth with vegetable broth, using plant-based butter, and replacing the cream and milk with coconut cream or any other plant-based cream and milk alternatives.
What Type Of Potatoes Should I Use For Panera Rustic Potato Soup?
The best potatoes for Panera’s rustic potato soup are russet potatoes, which have a starchy texture and break down nicely when cooked, helping to thicken the soup.
Can I Freeze The Panera Rustic Potato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. However, since it contains cream, the texture may change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat over low heat when ready to serve, stirring occasionally.
How Long Does The Panera Rustic Potato Soup Last In The Fridge?
The soup can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. Ensure it’s cooled to room temperature before storing in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
What Can I Serve With Panera Rustic Potato Soup?
Panera rustic potato soup is often served with crusty bread, such as a baguette or sourdough, and a side salad. You can also add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese or crispy bacon for extra flavor.
Is There A Way To Make The Panera Rustic Potato Soup Recipe Spicier?
Yes, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the soup for some heat. If you like a smokier flavor, try incorporating smoked paprika into the recipe.
Can I Use Other Herbs In The Panera Rustic Potato Soup Recipe?
Yes, you can customize the herbs to your taste. Rosemary, sage, and parsley work well in this soup. Just be sure to adjust the quantities based on your preference.
How Do I Thicken The Panera Rustic Potato Soup If It’s Too Thin?
If the soup is too thin, you can thicken it by adding a slurry of flour and water or cornstarch and water. Alternatively, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender to create a thicker consistency.