This warm and creamy Irish Potato Soup is the perfect cozy dish. With fluffy potatoes and a hint of green onions, it’s like a hug in a bowl!
Whenever I make this soup, I can’t resist a big slice of crusty bread to dip in. It’s super easy to whip up and makes any chilly day feel better! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Gold for a creamy texture. You can substitute with red potatoes for a firmer bite, but expect a less creamy soup.
Bacon: Bacon adds a flavorful crunch. If you want a vegetarian version, leave it out and try using smoked paprika for that smoky flavor.
Heavy cream: Heavy cream makes this soup rich and silky. If you’re looking to lighten it up, consider half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter option.
Cheddar cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. If you can’t find it, try white cheddar or even a non-dairy cheese for a different twist.
Broth: Chicken broth adds depth, but you can easily use vegetable broth for a vegetarian soup.
How Do I Get the Right Texture in My Soup?
The texture of your soup is key to its comfort factor. To achieve that creamy consistency, make sure to follow these steps:
- Cook the potatoes until they’re very tender; this makes mashing easier.
- Use a potato masher or an immersion blender. Mashing only part of the potatoes allows for a nice mix of creamy and chunky textures.
- If you want it even smoother, you can blend the whole pot for an ultra-creamy soup, but be careful not to over-blend, unless you prefer it that way!
Irish Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Basic Ingredients:
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (plus more for garnish)
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 3 green onions or chives, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream or extra cream for drizzling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Irish Potato Soup will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You can whip it up quickly, making it perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner on a chilly day.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Potatoes:
In a large pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook until they’re tender, which will take about 15-20 minutes. Once they are done, drain them, but keep some of the potato pieces aside for texture later.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and fragrant.
3. Make the Roux:
Stir in the flour, cooking it for 2-3 minutes until it takes on a light golden color. This roux will help thicken your soup.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Gradually whisk in the reserved broth and the heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer as it starts to thicken.
5. Blend the Potatoes:
Add the cooked potatoes back to the pot. Using a potato masher or an immersion blender, mash part of the potatoes to create a creamy texture while still leaving some chunks for a satisfying bite.
6. Add Cheese and Bacon:
Mix in the crumbled bacon and the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted. Season your soup with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Final Heating:
Heat the soup through until it’s hot and bubbly. It should have a lovely creamy texture at this point.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Pour the piping hot soup into bowls. Garnish with extra bacon, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions or chives. If you like, drizzle a little sour cream or heavy cream on top for an extra touch of creaminess.
Enjoy this comforting and classic Irish Potato Soup—perfect for chilly days!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes, you can! While starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Gold work best for a creamy texture, you can use red potatoes if you prefer a firmer bite. Just note that red potatoes will give your soup a different consistency.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bacon. You can add some smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness without the meat.
Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Absolutely! Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may want to add a splash of cream or broth to loosen it up!
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
