Indulge in the rich and velvety delight of O’Charley’s Potato Soup. This beloved recipe is a comforting bowl of creamy goodness that warms the soul. With tender potatoes, savory seasonings, and a hint of smoky bacon, this soup is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re craving a hearty lunch or a cozy dinner, this recipe will satisfy your taste buds and keep you coming back for more.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Serving: 6
- Yield: Approximately 6 cups
- Calories: 250 per serving
Ingredients:
- 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish
- Sliced green onions, for garnish
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Soup ladle
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1:
In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 2:
In the same pot with the bacon drippings, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Step 3:
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring well to coat. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
Step 4:
Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the diced potatoes and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 5:
Using a potato masher or the back of a spoon, lightly mash the potatoes in the soup to thicken it slightly. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips and Tricks:
- For an extra flavor boost, try using smoked bacon instead of regular bacon.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup before adding the cream.
- Customize your soup by adding shredded cheese, green onions, or crumbled bacon as toppings.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Protein: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
Final Thoughts:
O’Charley’s Potato Soup is the epitome of comfort in a bowl. Its creamy texture, savory flavors, and hearty potatoes make it a favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or just in need of some feel-good food, this recipe will hit the spot every time. Share it with loved ones and savor the warmth and deliciousness it brings to your table.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use red potatoes instead of russet potatoes in O’Charley’s Potato Soup?
A1: While russet potatoes are traditionally used in O’Charley’s Potato Soup, you can substitute them with red potatoes if desired. Just keep in mind that red potatoes tend to have a firmer texture and may not break down as easily.
Q2: Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of O’Charley’s Potato Soup?
A2: Absolutely! Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth in O’Charley’s Potato Soup to make a vegetarian-friendly version. The flavors may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Q3: Can I freeze O’Charley’s Potato Soup?
A3: Yes, you can freeze O’Charley’s Potato Soup for later enjoyment. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers or freezer bags. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a little extra broth or cream if needed.
Q4: Can I add other vegetables to O’Charley’s Potato Soup?
A4: Certainly! You can customize O’Charley’s Potato Soup by adding vegetables such as carrots, celery, or corn. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure all the vegetables are cooked to your desired tenderness.
Q5: What can I serve as a side dish with O’Charley’s Potato Soup?
A5: A crusty bread, such as a baguette or garlic bread, pairs wonderfully with O’Charley’s Potato Soup. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad or a grilled cheese sandwich for a satisfying meal.
Q6: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream in O’Charley’s Potato Soup?
A6: While heavy cream contributes to the rich and creamy texture of O’Charley’s Potato Soup, you can use milk as a lighter alternative. Keep in mind that the soup may be slightly less creamy, but it will still be delicious.
Q7: Can I make O’Charley’s Potato Soup in a slow cooker?
A7: Yes, you can adapt the recipe for O’Charley’s Potato Soup for a slow cooker. Simply cook the bacon, onion, and garlic on the stovetop, then transfer everything to a slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients (except for the cream). Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Q8: Can I make O’Charley’s Potato Soup ahead of time?
A8: Absolutely! You can make O’Charley’s Potato Soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed, before serving.
Q9: Can I add herbs or spices to enhance the flavor of O’Charley’s Potato Soup?
A9: Yes, you can add herbs and spices to O’Charley’s Potato Soup to suit your taste preferences. Fresh or dried herbs like parsley, chives, or rosemary can add a delightful aroma and flavor. Experiment and find your favorite combination!
Q10: Can I use an alternative to bacon for a vegetarian version of O’Charley’s Potato Soup?
A10: Certainly! If you prefer a vegetarian version of O’Charley’s Potato Soup, you can omit the bacon altogether or use vegetarian bacon substitutes available in the market. You can also enhance the flavor with a dash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika.
Q11: Can I make O’Charley’s Potato Soup dairy-free?
A11: Yes, you can make O’Charley’s Potato Soup dairy-free by substituting the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative such as coconut cream or almond milk. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may differ slightly.
Q12: Can I add cheese to O’Charley’s Potato Soup?
A12: Absolutely! Adding shredded cheddar cheese to O’Charley’s Potato Soup just before serving can create a delicious cheesy twist. Sprinkle it on top and allow it to melt into the warm soup for an extra indulgence.
Q13: Can I adjust the thickness of O’Charley’s Potato Soup?
A13: Yes, if you prefer a thicker O’Charley’s Potato Soup, you can adjust the consistency by mashing more potatoes or adding a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken it. Alternatively, if you want a thinner soup, you can add a little extra broth or cream.
Q14: Can I garnish O’Charley’s Potato Soup with other toppings?
A14:Certainly! You can garnish O’Charley’s Potato Soup with various toppings to add extra flavor and texture. Some popular options include chopped green onions, crispy crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives. Feel free to get creative and customize your soup with your favorite toppings.
