Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe

Okay, flavor adventurers, buckle up because I’m about to drop a bomb of creamy, cheesy, potato-y goodness on you! This isn’t just any soup; it’s my obsessed-over, perfected Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe. You know that warm, comforting hug in a bowl? Yeah, that’s exactly what we’re chasing today.

I spent weeks locked in my kitchen, dodging rogue potato chunks and tweaking spice blends, all in pursuit of one goal: to nail that Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe flavor profile. The breakthrough came when I swapped regular chicken broth for smoked paprika and chicken bouillon – BAM! The depth of flavor exploded, and I knew I was onto something seriously special.

This Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe isn’t just about mimicking a classic; it’s about channeling the spirit of Cuba Queen. It’s bold, it’s satisfying, and it turns an everyday meal into a mini-celebration. I’m beyond stoked to share this culinary masterpiece with you – let’s get cooking!

Ingredients You Need

You’ll find the best smoked paprika for this Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe at specialty spice shops. Splurge on the good stuff – trust me, it makes a difference! This ingredient list is short but mighty! Each component plays a crucial role in creating that signature flavor we’re after. Also, make sure you store those potatoes in cold water until you are ready to cut them! This helps them not brown and keeps them nice and white!

• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled: This is where the magic starts! Don’t skimp on the bacon; it adds a smoky depth that’s essential for my Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe.
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Aromatic foundation – gotta have it!
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Because everything is better with garlic, right?
• 6 cups Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed: Yukon Golds are my go-to because they’re creamy and hold their shape beautifully in this Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe.
• 4 cups chicken broth: Use a good quality broth for the best flavor or even better Smoked Paprika Chicken Bouillon!
• 1 cup heavy cream: This is the key to that luscious, creamy texture we all crave in my Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe.
• 1 cup milk: Adds the perfect balance of richness.
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: The Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe game-changer! It adds a tanginess and creaminess that’s simply irresistible. This is what makes it Panera-perfect! For a lighter alternative, you can use Neufchâtel cheese, but trust me, the cream cheese is worth it.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar is my preference for that extra zing in this Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe.
• 2 tablespoons butter: For sautéing and building flavor.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup to that perfect, spoon-hugging consistency for my Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: The secret weapon! This adds a smoky depth that takes this Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe to the next level.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Adjust to your taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is always best!
• Chopped green onions, for garnish: Because presentation matters, flavor adventurers!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. First, cook the bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave the bacon grease in the pot – that’s liquid GOLD. That little extra bacon grease will bring the right flavoring for a solid base.
2. Melt the butter in the same pot with the bacon grease over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Make sure not to burn the garlic! We just want the flavor to come out.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This is essential for thickening the Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe – don’t skip this step!
4. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure there are no lumps. This is where most people mess up their Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe – but not you! Slow and steady wins the race.
5. Add the cubed potatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. I like to use a fork to test. If it slides right in, we are good to go!
6. Remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend about half of the soup until smooth. This creates a creamy base while leaving some chunks of potato for texture – the best of both worlds! If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer half of the soup to a regular blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
7. Stir in the heavy cream, milk, and softened cream cheese until well combined and the cream cheese is fully melted. You may have to put it back on low to get this done!
8. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Be patient; it might take a few minutes for the cheese to fully melt and incorporate into the soup.
9. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Don’t be afraid to add a little more salt, pepper, or smoked paprika to suit your taste.
10. Ladle the Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe into bowls and garnish with crumbled bacon and chopped green onions.

Pro tip for Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe perfection: Don’t over-blend the soup! You want to maintain some of those delicious potato chunks. Here’s where your Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe transforms into pure magic. This should look and smell like pure comfort food heaven!

Presentation is Key!

Okay, flavor adventurers, presentation is KEY! This Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe deserves a spotlight. Ladle the soup into rustic bowls for that cozy, homemade vibe. Top with a generous sprinkle of crumbled bacon, a swirl of sour cream or a dollop of plain Greek yogurt, and a scattering of fresh chopped green onions.

For an extra touch of flair, add a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. People absolutely lose their minds when I serve this Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe at potlucks! Pair this creamy delight with a crusty baguette or grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort food experience.

This Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe absolutely slays at dinner parties! Think cozy fall evenings, game-day gatherings, or even a simple weeknight meal. This Copycat Panera Bread potato soup also makes amazing leftovers! Try using it as a base for loaded baked potatoes or even as a sauce for pasta.

For a seasonal twist, try adding roasted corn in the summer or roasted butternut squash in the fall. The reactions I’ve gotten from these variations are mind-blowing! This Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.

FAQs About This Creamy Potato Soup

• Can I make this Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe spicier?

  Absolutely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the soup while it’s simmering. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for an extra kick. I’ve found that a little goes a long way, so start small and adjust to your taste.

• What if I don’t have cream cheese for my Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe?

  While cream cheese is ideal for achieving that signature tangy flavor, you can substitute it with sour cream or plain Greek yogurt. Add it at the end, after the soup has been removed from the heat, to prevent curdling.

• Can I use different types of potatoes in this Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe?

  While Yukon Golds are my preference, you can also use Russet potatoes. Just be aware that they may break down more during cooking, resulting in a slightly thicker soup.

• How do I know when my Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe is perfectly done?

  The potatoes should be tender and easily pierced with a fork. The soup should be creamy and smooth, with a slightly thickened consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. If it tastes amazing, its done!

• Can I make this Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe ahead of time?

  Yes! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

• Can I freeze this Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe?

  While you can freeze it, the texture may change slightly due to the dairy content. If you do freeze it, allow it to thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.

• What are some other toppings I can add to my Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe?

  The possibilities are endless! Some of my favorites include shredded cheese, bacon bits, chopped green onions, sour cream, hot sauce, and croutons.

Conclusion

This Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe embodies everything Cuba Queen stands for: bold flavors, comforting textures, and a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. It’s about creating memories and sharing delicious food with the people you love. You can find a similar recipe at Panera’s Cream Cheese Potato Soup Recipe – Food.com. This recipe is so good I also adapted it to become a base for another amazing recipe! You will have to checkout my Copycat Outback Potato Soup Recipe. For another potato soup variation, check out Copycat Panera Rustic Baked Potato Soup. This Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe is perfect to pair with my Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup and if you want a cheese bomb then try this Copycat Panera Bread potato soup with my Cheesy Potato Soup.

My Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe Power Tips:

• Don’t skimp on the bacon: It adds a depth of flavor that you won’t get anywhere else!
• Use good-quality broth: It makes a huge difference in the overall taste of the soup.
• Don’t over-blend: Keep some of those delicious potato chunks for texture!

Here are a few Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe variations I’ve created and loved:

1. Spicy Chorizo Potato Soup: Add crumbled chorizo and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a fiery kick.
2. Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Top with shredded cheese, bacon bits, sour cream, and green onions for the ultimate loaded baked potato experience.
3. Roasted Garlic Potato Soup: Roast the garlic before adding it to the soup for a sweeter, more mellow flavor.

The Loaded Baked Potato Soup version always gets the biggest reactions – people go crazy for it! Make this Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe your signature dish, flavor adventurers! I have no doubt that you’ll create a culinary masterpiece that will impress your friends and family. Don’t forget to share your results! I can’t wait to see your creations! Go make some delicious memories! 🔥🌮✨

Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe

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Craving Panera’s creamy potato soup? This copycat recipe delivers the same rich flavor and comforting warmth in your own kitchen. It’s the perfect cozy meal for a chilly day.

• Author: Quinn
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
• Shredded cheddar cheese, for topping (optional)
• Chopped green onions, for topping (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine the potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
2. While the potatoes are cooking, melt the butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened.
4. Once the potatoes are tender, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer some of the soup to a regular blender, blend until smooth, and then return it to the pot.
5. Stir the cream mixture into the potato soup. Add the onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve hot, topped with crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions, if desired.

Notes

For an extra smoky flavor, try using smoked paprika in the soup. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added richness.