This creamy Smoked Gouda Potato Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With tasty potatoes and rich smoked gouda cheese, it’s perfect for chilly days.
I love how this soup makes the kitchen smell amazing while it cooks! Serve it with some crusty bread, and you’ll be in comfort food heaven! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are great for a smooth texture. If you don’t have russets, try Yukon Gold potatoes for a buttery flavor, or red potatoes for a firmer bite.
Smoked Gouda: This cheese gives the soup its signature smoky flavor. If you’re out, you can use another smoked cheese or sharp cheddar for a different twist!
Bacon: Bacon adds a wonderful crunch and rich taste. You can swap it with turkey bacon for a lighter version or omit it entirely for a vegetarian soup. Try adding sautéed mushrooms for extra umami!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter soup, use half-and-half or milk. Coconut milk can also give a nice creamy texture if you want a dairy-free option!
How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Texture?
Blending is the key to a creamy soup! Using an immersion blender helps you control the texture. Here’s how to nail it:
- Blend until mostly smooth but keep some chunks for texture. This gives the soup a hearty feel.
- If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer half the soup to a regular blender, blend, and return it to the pot. Just watch out for hot splashes!
Remember to blend in batches if you use a regular blender, and let the soup cool slightly before blending. This prevents any accidents!
How to Make Smoked Gouda Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup smoked gouda cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 strips of bacon, diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
- Croutons (optional, for garnish)
- Olive oil or butter (for cooking bacon and onion)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful soup will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook. That means in just 45 minutes, you’ll have a delicious bowl of creamy, smoky goodness ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy and golden brown. Once done, remove the bacon using a slotted spoon and place it on paper towels to drain. Don’t forget to keep the bacon fat in the pot for added flavor!
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same pot with the bacon fat, add the butter and finely chopped onion. Sauté the onions until they are soft and translucent—about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
3. Make a Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the cooked onions and garlic. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes to create a roux, which will help thicken your soup. This step makes sure the flour doesn’t taste raw.
4. Add Broth and Potatoes:
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring it to a boil. Next, add the diced potatoes. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
5. Blend the Soup:
Once the potatoes are tender, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it’s mostly smooth but still slightly chunky. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer half of the soup to a blender, process until smooth, and then return it to the pot. Always be cautious with hot liquids!
6. Add Cream and Cheese:
Stir in the heavy cream and shredded smoked gouda cheese. Heat gently until the cheese is melted, stirring frequently. Season the soup to taste with salt and black pepper. It’s okay to taste and adjust – you want it to be just right!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm soup in bowls, topping each one with crispy bacon bits, freshly chopped chives, and croutons if desired. Pair with some crusty bread, and enjoy your delicious, creamy Smoked Gouda Potato Soup!
Enjoy your delicious creation! This soup is a comforting delight that warms the heart and the belly. Happy cooking! 😊
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you don’t have smoked gouda, sharp cheddar or fontina would also work well. Note that using a different cheese might change the flavor profile slightly, but it can still be delicious!
How Can I Make This Soup Gluten-Free?
To make this soup gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. If using cornstarch, mix it with a little cold broth before adding to avoid lumps.
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Yes! For a vegan version, use vegetable broth, plant-based cream, and skip the bacon or replace it with a plant-based bacon alternative. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. If it thickens, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up!
