Cracker Barrel Recipes Potato Soup Made Easy and Delicious

There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of potato soup, especially when it’s inspired by the famous Cracker Barrel recipe. Known for its rich, creamy texture and hearty flavor, Cracker Barrel’s potato soup has won the hearts of many who crave a cozy, satisfying meal.

Whether you’re looking for a perfect dish to warm up on chilly days or a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, this recipe perfectly balances simplicity with indulgence.

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through how to recreate that beloved Cracker Barrel potato soup right in your kitchen. From the essential ingredients to step-by-step instructions, you’ll learn everything needed to whip up this classic soup with ease.

Plus, we’ll share handy tips, variations, and serving suggestions to make the recipe your own. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cracker Barrel potato soup recipe is a soul-warming classic that combines creamy potatoes, smoky bacon, and a velvety broth that’s simply irresistible. The soup is easy to make, requiring simple ingredients that most home cooks have on hand.

It’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes this recipe stand out is its thick, creamy texture achieved without heavy cream, relying instead on milk and cheese for richness. The addition of onions and celery adds a subtle, savory depth, while crispy bacon and shredded cheddar cheese on top provide a delightful contrast.

This recipe is flexible too—whether you prefer it chunky or smooth, vegetarian or loaded with extras, it adapts beautifully to your tastes.

If you love hearty soups, you might also enjoy our Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide or try some All Day Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Comfort Meals for more delicious inspiration.

Ingredients

• 6 cups peeled and diced potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold work best)
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional for vegetarian)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Potato masher or immersion blender (optional, for desired consistency)
• Skillet (for cooking bacon)
• Serving bowls

Instructions

1. Prepare the bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels, then crumble once cooled. Set aside.
2. Sauté vegetables: In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, cooking until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add flour and build roux: Sprinkle the flour over the softened vegetables and stir continuously for 2-3 minutes. This will create a roux that thickens the soup.
4. Incorporate liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Then add the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture begins to thicken.
5. Add potatoes and seasonings: Stir in the diced potatoes, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Adjust soup consistency: Use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash some of the potatoes for a creamier texture while leaving some chunks for heartiness. Be careful not to overblend if you prefer a chunky soup.
7. Add cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with crumbled bacon and fresh parsley. Enjoy hot!

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the smoky flavor.

To make the soup even richer, substitute half the milk with half-and-half or heavy cream, but keep in mind this increases calories. For a lighter version, use low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk.

If you want to add some extra veggies, diced carrots or corn kernels work wonderfully. You can also top the soup with green onions, sour cream, or even crushed crackers for added texture.

For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch slurry.

Experimenting with cheeses can add new flavor dimensions—try smoked gouda, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This hearty potato soup pairs beautifully with warm, crusty bread or buttery biscuits to soak up every drop. For a lighter accompaniment, try a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.

Adding a side of steamed vegetables or a grilled cheese sandwich makes for a complete and satisfying meal. Cracker Barrel’s potato soup also complements dishes like Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious for an easy lunch or dinner option.

For a fun twist, serve the soup in bread bowls or alongside a charcuterie board featuring smoked meats and cheeses.

Conclusion

Making Cracker Barrel’s potato soup at home is a rewarding experience that brings comfort and warmth to your table. This recipe captures the essence of the original with its creamy, flavorful broth and hearty potatoes, enhanced by savory bacon and cheddar cheese.

It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to fit dietary preferences, from vegetarian to gluten-free, without compromising taste.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving, perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests. Don’t forget to explore other comforting recipes on our site, like the Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping or the Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious.

Enjoy the warmth, flavor, and satisfaction that comes with a bowl of homemade Cracker Barrel potato soup. Happy cooking!

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