MILLION DOLLAR POTOTO SOUP

Million Dollar Potato Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/4 cup green onions or chives, chopped (for garnish)
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

1. In a large pot, bring the diced potatoes and chicken broth to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Once the potatoes are cooked, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to slightly mash the potatoes in the pot. Leave some chunks for texture.

Step 2: Make the Cream Base

1. In a separate small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
2. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Everything

1. Add the roux mixture to the pot with the mashed potatoes. Stir to combine.
2. Stir in the sour cream, cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and salt. Stir until everything is melted and well combined. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Add the Bacon

1. Stir in most of the crumbled bacon, saving a little for garnish.

Step 5: Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the reserved bacon, extra shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions or chives.

Tips:

• Thicker Soup: For an even thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or blend more of the potatoes.
• Creamier Soup: For an ultra-creamy texture, use an immersion blender to purée more of the soup, or all of it if you prefer a smooth consistency.
• Bacon Alternative: For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth. You can top it with crispy fried onions or roasted vegetables for extra flavor.

Cooking Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, about 6 servings):

• Calories: ~500 kcal
• Protein: ~14g
• Fat: ~35g
• Carbohydrates: ~30g
• Fiber: ~3g

This Million Dollar Potato Soup is indulgent, creamy, and full of flavor, perfect for a cozy meal. The combination of cheeses, sour cream, and bacon makes it feel like a decadent treat, ideal for chilly nights!