This Cottage Cheese Potato Soup is creamy, hearty, and oh-so-comforting! With soft potatoes, fresh herbs, and rich cottage cheese, it’s a warm hug in a bowl!
Honestly, who knew cottage cheese could be this delightful? I love topping mine with a sprinkle of chives. Perfect for those chilly nights when you want something cozy and tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Russet potatoes work great for this soup due to their starch content, which adds creaminess. If you’re in a pinch, Yukon Golds are a nice alternative. They give a buttery flavor.
Cottage Cheese: This is the star of the show! If you’re not a fan, you could substitute plain Greek yogurt for a similar tang, though the texture will change slightly.
Bacon: Bacon adds a delicious crunch. For a healthier option, you can use turkey bacon or skip it altogether for a vegetarian version. Smoked paprika can enhance the smoky flavor.
Broth: Using homemade broth boosts flavor, but store-bought works too! For a vegetarian option, stick with vegetable broth.
Why Is Blending Important for this Soup?
Blending the soup gives it that creamy texture we love! Use an immersion blender for ease or blend in batches with a regular blender—just be careful with hot liquids!
- Blend until mostly smooth but leave some potato chunks for texture.
- Always let the soup cool slightly before blending in batches to avoid messes.
This step adds richness and makes it a comforting dish, so don’t skip it!
How to Make Cottage Cheese Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
For Garnish:
- 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Fresh dill or chives, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy and comforting soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at roughly 35-40 minutes before you can enjoy this delicious Cottage Cheese Potato Soup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base:
Start by heating the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. This builds a fantastic flavor base for your soup!
2. Cook the Potatoes:
Add the diced potatoes to the pot along with the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. You can check by poking them with a fork; they should feel soft and give easily!
3. Blend the Soup:
Using an immersion blender (or a regular blender—be careful with the hot liquid), puree the soup until it’s mostly smooth but still has some chunks for texture. This step makes it creamy and comforting!
4. Add the Creaminess:
Stir in the cottage cheese and the milk or cream. Mix until it’s well combined and heated through, but avoid bringing it back to a boil, as this can cause the dairy to curdle.
5. Season:
Now it’s time to season your soup! Add salt, pepper, and paprika to taste. This will enhance the flavors and give it that extra oomph!
6. Serve It Up:
Pour the soup into bowls and garnish with crumbled bacon and your choice of fresh dill or chives for a burst of freshness. Enjoy your cozy bowl of Cottage Cheese Potato Soup!
Bon appétit! This soup is perfect for chilly days and sure to warm your soul!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese Instead of Cottage Cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cottage cheese with other cheeses like cream cheese or ricotta for a different flavor and texture. Just keep in mind that cream cheese will require extra mixing to blend smoothly into the soup.
How Can I Thicken the Soup Further?
If you prefer a thicker soup, try adding a tablespoon or two of cornstarch mixed with cold water to the simmering soup. Stir until it thickens to your desired consistency. Another option is to reserve some of the cooked potatoes, mash them, and stir them back into the soup.
How Should I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if it thickens too much while sitting.
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, simply use vegetable broth, substitute the milk or cream with a dairy-free alternative (like coconut milk or almond milk), and skip the bacon or opt for a vegan bacon substitute. The soup will still be delicious!
