4-Ingredient Potato Soup Recipe

Cook Time: 200 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed for 6 servings. Ingredient quantities adjust automatically, but cooking times and steps remain the same. Note: not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 1/2 pound bacon
• 1 (28 ounce) bag of potatoes OBrien with onions and peppers
• 30 ounces chicken broth
• 8 ounces garlic and herb cheese spread
• 1 pinch black pepper

Directions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bacon and cook, turning occasionally, until evenly browned, about 10 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain, then roughly chop once cool enough to handle.
2. In batches, add the potatoes to the same skillet and cook until lightly browned, approximately 5 minutes. Transfer the potatoes to a slow cooker.
3. Pour the chicken broth over the potatoes. Add dollops of garlic and herb cheese spread, then scatter the chopped bacon on top.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on High until the potatoes are very tender, about 3 to 4 hours.
5. Optional: For a creamier texture, ladle up to half of the soup into a high-powered blender. Hold the lid down with a potholder and pulse a few times before blending continuously for about 45 seconds. Return the blended soup to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	367
Total Fat	21g (27%)
Saturated Fat	8g (41%)
Cholesterol	58mg (19%)
Sodium	1849mg (80%)
Total Carbohydrate	25g (9%)
Dietary Fiber	0g (1%)
Total Sugars	1g
Protein	20g (39%)
Vitamin C	22mg (25%)
Calcium	135mg (10%)
Iron	1mg (7%)
Potassium	581mg (12%)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

**Nutrient information is based on available data. Consult a doctor or dietitian if following a medically restrictive diet.

The Rich Story Behind 4-Ingredient Potato Soup

Potato soup, in its many forms, has long been a comforting staple in kitchens around the world. The 4-Ingredient Potato Soup is a modern take on this traditional dish, simplifying preparation while preserving rich flavor. Its roots can be traced back to rustic European cooking, where potatoes were a dietary cornerstone due to their affordability and versatility. Early versions of potato soup appeared in Irish and German households, often prepared with just potatoes, milk, and onions, creating a hearty meal that warmed families through long winters.

Regional Variations

Across the United States, potato soup has evolved differently depending on regional preferences. In the Midwest, it is often enriched with bacon, cheddar cheese, and cream, reflecting the area's love for dairy and smoked meats. Southern versions sometimes include spices and a slightly thinner broth, making it perfect for a lunch starter or light dinner. The 4-Ingredient Potato Soup emphasizes simplicity, using pre-seasoned potatoes OBrien and garlic-herb cheese to offer convenience without sacrificing flavor, a nod to modern American home cooking trends.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While potato chowder and loaded baked potato soup are similar, the 4-Ingredient Potato Soup distinguishes itself with minimal ingredients and preparation. Unlike chowder, it lacks heavy cream or flour-based thickeners, relying on the natural creaminess of the cheese spread and the slow cooking process. Compared to loaded baked potato soup, which often incorporates multiple toppings individually, this version integrates bacon, cheese, and seasoned potatoes directly into the slow cooker, streamlining the cooking process while maintaining a rich, indulgent taste.

Where Its Typically Served

This soup is a versatile option that can be found in casual family dinners, potlucks, and cozy cafes. Its hearty texture and comforting flavor make it ideal as a main course during colder months or as a starter at gatherings. Many home cooks prefer serving it directly from the slow cooker for a rustic presentation, accompanied by crusty bread or a light salad. Its simplicity also makes it a popular choice for weeknight meals when time and effort are limited.

Interesting Facts

Potato soup has interesting cultural ties; in Ireland, it was often served as a simple, nourishing dish during lean times, while in the United States, it became a symbol of comfort food in the 20th century. The use of pre-seasoned potatoes OBrien in this recipe highlights a modern adaptation, reflecting how convenience products can still yield gourmet results. Additionally, slow cooking the soup enhances its flavor profile without requiring constant attention, a technique that aligns with the growing popularity of slow cookers in contemporary kitchens. Notably, the combination of bacon, potatoes, and cheese remains a timeless trio celebrated in multiple cuisines worldwide.

FAQ about 4-Ingredient Potato Soup Recipe

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