This Yukon Gold Potato Soup is creamy and comforting, packed with tender potatoes and a hint of onion. It’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days!
I love how easy it is to whip up. Just chop, simmer, and blend! It’s so tasty that sometimes I just sit with the pot and enjoy it straight from the stove. 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes are creamy and buttery, making them perfect for soups. If you can’t find them, you can use Russet or red potatoes, though the texture and flavor will be slightly different.
Onion: A medium onion adds a nice base flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, shallots are a great alternative, or even green onions for a fresher zing.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the soup a warm background flavor. If you’re in a hurry, garlic powder can work as a substitute, just use about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove.
Chicken Broth: This adds depth to your soup. You can easily swap it with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, which still provides great flavor.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient makes the soup rich and creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half could be used instead or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Ensure My Soup Is Smooth and Creamy?
A key aspect of this recipe is achieving a wonderful smooth consistency. Here’s how to do it:
- After your potatoes are tender, remove the pot from heat before blending.
- If using an immersion blender, blend the soup right in the pot until it’s creamy. You can leave some chunks if you like a bit of texture.
- If using a traditional blender, let the soup cool slightly before transferring in batches. Always vent the lid to avoid pressure build-up.
After blending, return the soup to the pot and stir in the cream. Heat gently to avoid curdling.
How to Make Yukon Gold Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 cups Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 3 pounds)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For the Garnish:
- Bacon slices, cooked and crumbled
- Sour cream
- Fresh chives, chopped
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Yukon Gold Potato Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. This will lay a wonderful flavor base for your soup!
2. Add Garlic:
Once the onion is ready, add minced garlic to the pot. Cook it for another minute, stirring constantly, until it’s fragrant.
3. Cook the Potatoes:
Add the cubed Yukon Gold potatoes to the pot, and then pour in the chicken broth. Increase the heat and bring everything to a boil. It’s the moment when the magic starts happening!
4. Simmer Until Tender:
Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. You can check if they’re done by easily piercing a cube with a fork.
5. Blend for Creaminess:
Carefully blend the soup until it’s smooth and creamy. If you’re using an immersion blender, blend directly in the pot. If using a regular blender, let it cool a bit before transferring it in batches, then return the blended soup to the pot.
6. Stir in Cream and Seasonings:
Now, stir in the heavy cream, salt, black pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika (if using). Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed for that perfect flavor!
7. Heat Gently:
Warm the soup gently on low heat, stirring occasionally. This step ensures it’s hot and comforting!
8. Serve and Garnish:
Pour the soup into bowls and top with delicious garnishes like crumbled bacon, a dollop of sour cream, chopped chives, and shredded cheddar cheese. Enjoy your warm and creamy Yukon Gold Potato Soup!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, you can substitute them with Russet or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Is There a Dairy-Free Option for This Soup?
Absolutely! You can replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute. Ensure your broth is also vegetable-based to keep it dairy-free!
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Soup?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or even spinach for extra nutrients. Just chop them small and add them when you cook the onions and garlic.
