We all know Cracker Barrel’s potato soup as the ultimate comfort food that’s warmed hearts for years. Originating from the cozy vibes of this iconic American diner it’s a creamy delight packed with simple ingredients that evoke family gatherings and chilly evenings.
In our kitchen we’ve recreated this classic to make it easy for you to whip up at home. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight meal or a hearty side we’re excited to share our twist on this timeless favorite.
Ingredients
As we dive into recreating our favorite Cracker Barrel potato soup, we focus on simple, fresh ingredients that capture its creamy, comforting essence. We’ve organized this list in the order the ingredients are typically used during preparation, including prep specifics for clarity and ease.
- Potatoes: 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes – These provide the hearty, starchy base that gives the soup its signature texture and nostalgic warmth.
- Onion: 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped – Sautéed first to build a flavorful foundation for the soup’s savory profile.
- Celery: 2 stalks celery, sliced thinly – Added early to enhance the vegetable medley and add a subtle crunch before cooking.
- Carrots: 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced – Incorporated alongside other veggies for natural sweetness and color.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – Used for sautéing aromatics, ensuring a rich, velvety mouthfeel.
- All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup – Acts as a thickening agent when mixed with butter to create a roux.
- Chicken broth: 4 cups low-sodium – Poured in to form the liquid base, amplifying the soup’s depth and homestyle appeal.
- Milk: 2 cups whole milk – Stirred in later for creaminess, helping achieve that irresistible, smooth consistency.
- Heavy cream: 1 cup – Added towards the end for extra richness and a luxurious finish.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced – Infuses aromatic notes when sautéed with onions.
- Salt and pepper: 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, to taste – Seasonings that balance and elevate the flavors throughout.
- Optional garnishes: Fresh chives or bacon bits – Sprinkled on top for added texture and visual appeal, though not essential for the core recipe.
This selection ensures our homemade version stays true to the comforting, family-style vibe of Cracker Barrel potato soup, using everyday ingredients for quick, satisfying results.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients, let’s guide you through preparing our homemade Cracker Barrel potato soup step by step. We’ll create a creamy, hearty dish that captures the comforting essence of this classic favorite.
Prepare Ingredients
Before we begin cooking, we need to prep our ingredients for optimal flavor and texture. Start by peeling and dicing 6 medium russet potatoes into 1-inch cubes to ensure they cook evenly and absorb flavors well. Next, finely chop 1 yellow onion, mince 2 cloves of garlic, and slice 2 celery stalks and 2 carrots into thin pieces for a balanced, aromatic base. Measure out 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, setting them aside. This preparation allows us to build layers of taste, making our soup rich and inviting.
Cook the Soup
With our ingredients prepped, we move on to cooking the soup to develop its signature creamy consistency. In a large pot over medium heat, melt the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter until it foams, then add the chopped onion, celery, carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and release a fragrant, savory aroma that fills the kitchen. Stir in the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes to eliminate any raw taste. Gradually pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and add the diced potatoes, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the broth thickens, creating a comforting, velvety base that evokes the warmth of Cracker Barrel traditions.
Blend and Finish
Once the soup has simmered, we blend it for that smooth, luxurious finish that defines our Cracker Barrel potato soup. Using an immersion blender, carefully puree the soup in the pot until it’s creamy and lump-free, or transfer portions to a countertop blender for a silkier texture—be sure to blend in batches for safety. Stir in 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, then season with salt and pepper to taste, heating gently for 5 minutes to meld the flavors without boiling. For an extra touch, sprinkle in optional garnishes like fresh chives or bacon bits, resulting in a rich, soul-soothing bowl that’s perfect for any gathering.
Tools and Equipment
To bring our Cracker Barrel-style potato soup to life with ease and precision, we rely on a few essential tools that streamline the preparation process. These items ensure that sautéing vegetables, creating a smooth roux, and blending the soup go off without a hitch, allowing us to achieve that creamy, comforting texture every time.
Here’s a list of key tools we’ll need, organized by the sequence of use in our recipe:
- Cutting board and sharp knife: We start by prepping ingredients, so a sturdy cutting board paired with a sharp knife helps us quickly peel and dice potatoes, chop onions, celery, and carrots for even cooking.
- Vegetable peeler: For our medium russet potatoes, this tool makes quick work of removing skins, ensuring the soup’s smooth consistency without any tough bits.
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup, this heavy-bottomed vessel allows for even heat distribution, helping us build flavors in the broth.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: We use this for stirring the roux and vegetables, preventing sticking and ensuring our flour and butter mixture incorporates smoothly without burning.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is key in our recipe, so these tools help us measure out ingredients like broth, milk, and seasonings precisely for that perfect balance of flavors.
- Immersion blender or countertop blender: To achieve the creamy texture of Cracker Barrel potato soup, we blend the soup directly in the pot with an immersion blender or transfer it to a countertop blender for a silky-smooth finish.
With these tools in hand, we’re equipped to handle every step of our homemade potato soup recipe efficiently, from prep to serving. Always opt for high-quality items to enhance safety and results in your kitchen adventures.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To simplify our Cracker Barrel-style potato soup preparation, we can handle various steps in advance without compromising its creamy texture and comforting flavors. This approach lets us enjoy a hearty meal with minimal effort on busy days.
Prepping Ingredients Ahead
We recommend preparing the vegetables and other components up to 24 hours in advance to streamline cooking. Start by peeling and dicing the medium russet potatoes into even ½-inch cubes, then chop the yellow onion, celery, and carrots into small pieces as outlined in our ingredients list. Store these prepped items in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and prevent browning. For the potatoes, submerge them in cold water to preserve their texture—simply drain and pat dry before use.
Cooking the Soup in Advance
If we want to make the entire soup ahead, cook it fully following the step-by-step instructions provided earlier. Once the soup reaches its smooth, velvety consistency, let it cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This prevents condensation and maintains the rich, creamy essence we love in our homemade Cracker Barrel potato soup.
For storage, use the guidelines below to ensure optimal quality:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 days | Transfer to an airtight container; stir before reheating to redistribute flavors. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers; thaw overnight in the refrigerator for even heating. |
Reheating for Best Results
When it’s time to serve, reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon to avoid scorching. If reheating from frozen, first thaw it in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. Add a splash of whole milk or heavy cream during reheating to restore the soup’s luxurious, silky smoothness and enhance its comforting warmth. Always taste and adjust seasonings like salt and pepper before serving to keep that nostalgic Cracker Barrel flavor alive.
Conclusion
We’ve thoroughly enjoyed guiding you through recreating Cracker Barrel’s potato soup at home. It’s more than just a recipe—it’s a way to bring that cozy, nostalgic vibe to your table. We’re confident you’ll find it easy to adapt and share. Dive in and make it your own for those heartfelt moments that keep us coming back.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cracker Barrel potato soup?
Cracker Barrel potato soup is a classic comfort food known for its creamy texture and nostalgic flavor, evoking memories of family gatherings. It’s made with simple ingredients like potatoes, onions, celery, and carrots, simmered into a hearty, warming dish. This homemade version captures that essence, perfect as a quick meal or side.
What ingredients are needed for homemade Cracker Barrel potato soup?
You’ll need medium russet potatoes, yellow onion, celery, carrots, unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, low-sodium chicken broth, whole milk, heavy cream, minced garlic, and seasonings. Optional garnishes include fresh chives or bacon bits. These everyday items create a rich, comforting soup with minimal effort.
How do I make Cracker Barrel potato soup at home?
Start by prepping and dicing potatoes and veggies. Sauté the vegetables, make a roux with butter and flour, add broth, and simmer until potatoes are tender. Blend for smoothness, then stir in milk and cream. Season to taste and garnish as desired. The whole process takes about 30-45 minutes for a delicious result.
What tools are required to prepare this soup?
Essential tools include a cutting board, sharp knife, vegetable peeler, large pot or Dutch oven, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups and spoons, and a blender (immersion or countertop). These basics help you chop, cook, and blend efficiently for a smooth homemade soup.
Can I make Cracker Barrel potato soup ahead of time?
Yes, prep vegetables up to 24 hours in advance and store in airtight containers; keep potatoes in cold water to prevent browning. You can also cook the full soup ahead, cool it completely, and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. This makes it easy for busy days.
How should I store and reheat the soup?
Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge if frozen, then warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess. Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving.
What tips ensure the best Cracker Barrel potato soup?
Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor, blend to your preferred consistency, and don’t skip the roux for creaminess. Taste and adjust seasonings as you go, and add garnishes like chives or bacon for extra appeal. For a healthier twist, opt for low-fat milk, but stick to the recipe for that authentic, comforting taste.