If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table, O’Charley’s Potato Soup Recipe is an excellent choice. Not only is it rich and creamy, but it also satisfies with its hearty flavors. Furthermore, it’s surprisingly easy to recreate at home, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
In addition, mastering this recipe allows you to replicate a restaurant favorite while personalizing it to your taste. For more inspiration on creamy soups, check out Bon Appétit’s Comfort Food Recipes.
Why Is O’Charley’s Potato Soup Recipe So Popular?
There are several reasons why O’Charley’s Potato Soup Recipe has remained a classic. First, its velvety texture, achieved through a combination of heavy cream, butter, and cheese, creates an indulgent dish that is hard to resist. Moreover, the combination of potatoes and crispy bacon ensures a meal that is both hearty and satisfying.
Additionally, the recipe’s versatility adds to its popularity. For instance, you can make it vegetarian by omitting the bacon or turn it into a protein-packed dish by adding chicken or sausage. As a result, this soup appeals to a variety of dietary preferences.
If you’re curious about other comforting potato-based dishes, visit Taste of Home’s Potato Recipes.
Ingredients for the Best O’Charley’s Potato Soup Recipe
To create a bowl of soup that rivals the original, gathering the right ingredients is essential. Fortunately, most of these are pantry staples, making this recipe both accessible and budget-friendly.
Core Ingredients:
- 4 large Russet potatoes: Peeled and diced for consistency.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and luxurious texture.
- 2 cups chicken stock: Provides a flavorful base.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Introduces bold flavor.
- ½ cup diced onions: Enhances the savory profile.
- 4 strips crispy bacon: Crumbled for a smoky touch.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Used to create the roux.
- 2 tablespoons flour: Thickens the soup effectively.
- Salt and pepper: Adjust to taste.
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped scallions: Adds freshness and vibrant color.
- Extra cheese: Perfect for an indulgent topping.
- Sour cream: Introduces a tangy contrast.
For tips on selecting the best potatoes for cooking, check out The Spruce Eats’ Potato Guide.
Step-by-Step Instructions for O’Charley’s Potato Soup Recipe
Although this recipe is straightforward, paying attention to detail ensures the best results. Additionally, combining mashed and diced potatoes creates the perfect balance of creaminess and texture.
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
To begin, peel and dice the Russet potatoes. Divide them into two portions—one for mashing and the other for leaving chunky. Meanwhile, boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, which typically takes about 10–15 minutes. Afterward, mash half of the potatoes and set the rest aside.
Step 2: Create the Soup Base
Meanwhile, in a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat, being careful not to let it brown. Next, add the diced onions and sauté them until translucent, which enhances their natural sweetness. Gradually stir in the flour, cooking it for about two minutes to form a smooth, golden roux.
Step 3: Build the Potato Soup
Now, slowly whisk in the chicken stock to prevent lumps from forming. Once the stock is fully incorporated, add the heavy cream to create a silky base. Then, stir in the mashed potatoes to thicken the soup, followed by the diced potatoes for texture.
Step 4: Add Cheddar Cheese and Bacon
At this point, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring it melts completely. Additionally, crumble the bacon into the soup, but reserve some for garnish to enhance presentation.
Step 5: Season and Garnish
Finally, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with scallions, extra cheese, and crispy bacon for a restaurant-style finish.
For a guide to achieving the perfect roux, visit Serious Eats’ Roux Guide.
Pro Tips to Perfect O’Charley’s Potato Soup Recipe
Even a well-loved recipe like O’Charley’s Potato Soup Recipe can be improved with a few expert tips. Here are some ideas to take your dish to the next level:
- Balance the Texture: Use both mashed and diced potatoes for the ideal combination of creaminess and chunks.
- Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Add parsley, thyme, or chives for a subtle flavor boost.
- Lighten It Up: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or plant-based alternatives for a lighter version.
- Reheat Carefully: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. When reheating, use low heat to preserve the soup’s consistency.
For more ideas on crafting the perfect creamy soups, visit The Kitchn’s Cream Soup Guide.
Delicious Pairings for O’Charley’s Potato Soup Recipe
Sides:
Pair this soup with Pumpkin Banana Loaf for a sweet and satisfying complement or serve it with freshly baked rolls.
Desserts:
Consider adding Earl Grey Cookies for a light, elegant dessert. Alternatively, try Muddy Buddies for a playful, textural contrast.
Beverages:
Pair your soup with a crisp white wine, iced tea, or sparkling water for a refreshing finish.
Frequently Asked Questions About O’Charley’s Potato Soup Recip
1. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but freezing may slightly alter the texture due to the dairy content. Therefore, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on low heat.
2. What’s the best potato to use for this recipe?
Russet potatoes are ideal for their high starch content, which creates a creamy consistency. Alternatively, Yukon Gold potatoes provide a waxier texture.
3. How can I thicken the soup further?
To achieve a thicker consistency, stir in more mashed potatoes or use a cornstarch slurry.
4. Are there low-carb alternatives to potatoes?
Yes! Substitute cauliflower florets for potatoes to make the soup keto-friendly. Blending some of the cauliflower helps mimic the creaminess of mashed potatoes.
Final Thoughts on O’Charley’s Potato Soup Recipe
In summary, O’Charley’s Potato Soup Recipe is the perfect combination of rich flavors, creamy textures, and comforting ingredients. Whether you’re recreating it for nostalgic reasons or discovering it for the first time, this recipe delivers every time.
Pair it with desserts like Muddy Buddies or Earl Grey Cookies to complete the experience. By following this guide, you’ll enjoy a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home. Let us know how it turned out!
