I’ve made Charleston Potato Soup so many times that I could probably do it in my sleep! This rich, creamy soup is one of my all-time favorite comfort foods, and I’ve perfected every step to make sure it turns out just right.
The velvety broth, tender potatoes, and blend of seasonings come together to create a flavor that’s downright irresistible. I always finish it off with crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and fresh green onions for that extra kick.
If you’ve ever had Charleston’s Restaurant’s famous potato soup, you know exactly how delicious it is. But trust me—this homemade version is just as satisfying, if not better!
What Makes This Recipe So Good?
What makes this Charleston’s Potato potato Soup so good is its perfect balance of creamy, rich texture and bold, savory flavors.
The combination of tender potatoes, buttery roux, and a well-seasoned broth creates a comforting, hearty base.
Adding crispy bacon, shredded cheddar, and fresh green onions gives it that extra layer of flavor and crunch that takes the soup to the next level. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Can You Eat this Recipe every day?
While Charleston’s Potato Soup is delicious and comforting, it’s best enjoyed in moderation rather than every day.
The soup is rich and creamy, which means it’s high in calories, fat, and sodium. For a balanced diet, it’s good to savor it as an occasional treat or part of a varied meal plan.
You can always lighten it up by using lower-fat ingredients like skim milk instead of half-and-half or swapping out some of the bacon for a healthier topping like grilled chicken or veggies.
As with any indulgent dish, enjoying it in moderation ensures you can savor the flavor without compromising your health.
How To Prepare Charleston Potato Soup?
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Course: Soup
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American
Yield: 6 servings
Equipment Needed:
- Large soup pot
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Ladle
Ingredients:
- 1½ cans (approximately 3 cups) chicken broth
- ½ cup water
- 5 tablespoons butter, melted
- 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon dried minced onion
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups half-and-half
- ⅛ teaspoon dried oregano
- ⅛ teaspoon dried parsley
- 4 cups potatoes, cubed (about 2 large potatoes)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base
In a large soup pot, combine the chicken broth, water, minced onion, oregano, and parsley.
Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Create the Roux
Slowly add the melted butter to the simmering broth, stirring continuously.
Gradually sprinkle in the flour while stirring to prevent lumps from forming. This will thicken the soup base.
3. Season and Add Creaminess
Stir in the salt and pepper, adjusting to taste. Pour in the half-and-half, continuing to stir.
Allow the mixture to cook until it becomes bubbly and starts to thicken.
4. Add the Potatoes
Introduce the cubed potatoes to the pot. Ensure the heat is set to low to medium to prevent scorching.
Let the soup simmer, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender. This should take about 45 minutes to an hour.
5. Serve and Garnish
Once the potatoes are cooked through and the soup has reached your desired consistency, ladle it into bowls.
Top each serving with sliced green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon bits for added flavor and texture.
Nutrition Facts per Serving:
Calories: 320
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 800mg
Total Carbohydrates: 32g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 7g
Serving Suggestions:
This baked potato soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or a slice of crusty bread. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich or a side of steamed vegetables.
Tips and Variations:
Potato Choices: While russet potatoes are traditional, feel free to use red or Yukon gold potatoes for a slightly different texture and flavor.
Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot using a potato masher.
Adding Vegetables: Incorporate diced carrots or celery for added nutrients and flavor.
Spice It Up: For a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
Health Benefits:
Potatoes are a good source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber. When consumed in moderation, they can be part of a balanced diet.
Using half-and-half instead of heavy cream reduces the overall fat content, making this soup a bit lighter while still maintaining its creamy texture.
Note:
For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. Ensure all other ingredients align with your dietary preferences.
Conclusion
Making this Charleston’s Potato Soup at home means I can enjoy that same restaurant-quality taste anytime I want, and honestly, it’s even more satisfying knowing I made it myself.
I’ve fine-tuned this recipe over time, ensuring the perfect balance of creaminess, richness, and just the right amount of seasoning.
Whether it’s a cozy night in or a family gathering, this soup always gets rave reviews. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make with simple ingredients.
Once you take that first spoonful, you’ll see why it’s a favorite. If you love hearty, comforting soups, this one deserves a spot in your recipe collection—it never disappoints!