McAlister’s Potato Soup Recipe

Thick, creamy, and loaded with everything that makes potato soup worth craving—McAlister’s recipe gets it just right!

Russet potatoes are the best choice for this soup because they break down just enough to thicken it while keeping some texture.

I like to dice them small so they cook evenly and absorb all the richness from the broth and cream.

For that much-loved McAlister’s touch, sharp cheddar and crispy bacon on top give you want ya want!

A little onion powder blends in nicely without overpowering, so don’t skip it.

How to Make McAlister’s Potato Soup

Ingredients

• 6 large Potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 lb Bacon, chopped
• 1 Onion, diced
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced
• 4 cups Chicken broth
• 2 cups Heavy cream
• 1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Cook the bacon in a large stockpot over medium heat until crispy.

Remove and set aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pot.

Step 2:

Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until translucent.

Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 3:

Add the cubed potatoes and chicken broth to the pot, and bring to a boil.

Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4:

Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently.

Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until melted.

Step 5:

Season with Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.

Garnish with the crispy bacon before serving.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Perfect Consistency:

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot before adding the cream.

This helps achieve a lovely thickness without any additional thickeners.

Cheese Melt:

To enhance the flavor, I recommend using sharp cheddar cheese, as it really complements the creaminess of the soup.

You can also try a mix of cheeses for different tastes!

Bacon Flavor:

To boost the bacon flavor, consider adding a bit of the cooked bacon into the soup before serving.

Mixing some bacon bits into the soup itself allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

What to Serve with McAlister’s Potato Soup Recipe

Bread Bowls

A bread bowl is a classic option to serve with McAlister’s potato soup.

The hearty bread soaks up the soup, adding a fantastic texture and flavor combination.

Simply hollow out some crusty rolls, and you have perfect little bowls for your soup.

Sliders

Consider pairing your potato soup with sliders for a fun twist.

Sliders are small, tasty, and can feature a variety of fillings.

From classic beef patties to pulled pork or even grilled vegetables, sliders can make your meal more exciting.

Mac and Cheese Bites

Mac and cheese bites are a great way to add some cheesy goodness to your meal.

These crispy, breaded bites complement the creamy texture of the soup beautifully.

I recommend serving them straight from the oven for the perfect gooey center.

Pickled Vegetables

Pickled vegetables bring a tangy contrast to the rich and creamy soup.

You can easily make your own by pickling slices of carrots, cucumbers, or radishes.

These vibrant veggies will add crunch and zest to your meal.

Roasted Garlic Mushrooms

Roasted garlic mushrooms have an earthy depth you’ll love alongside potato soup.

These small bites pack a punch with their savory garlic flavor.

Simply toss them in olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast until tender.

Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Grilled cheese sandwiches are always a cozy choice with potato soup.

The crispy, buttery bread and melted cheese make an amazing combo!

It’s an easy accompaniment that pairs wonderfully with the creamy soup.

Apple and Walnut Salad

An apple and walnut salad adds fresh crunch and sweetness to your soup meal.

The crisp apples and crunchy walnuts offer a refreshing contrast to the soup.

Toss the salad with a light vinaigrette to bring all the flavors together.

Variations and Substitutions

Bacon Alternatives

If you’re looking to cut some fat from the recipe, consider using turkey bacon.

It offers the smoky flavor with less grease and fat, which can be a great alternative for a lighter dish.

Dairy-Free Substitutes

For those who are lactose intolerant or vegan, coconut milk can be an exciting addition.

It provides a creamy texture without using heavy cream.

If you prefer something less rich, almond milk is a good choice as well.

Spice it Up

Adding a kick to your soup is as simple as including a dash of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes.

This adds a bit of heat for those who enjoy spicier meals.

Sprinkle just a bit and taste as you go to tailor it to your preference.

Potato Swaps

If you don’t have Russet potatoes, Yukon Gold potatoes work just as well.

They bring a creamy, buttery flavor that can really enhance the soup.

Consider keeping the skins on for added texture and nutrients.

Meat Substitutions

For a hearty, protein-rich soup, try adding cooked chicken chunks.

This can turn your soup into a complete meal.

Just toss in some shredded rotisserie chicken after the potatoes have softened.

How to Store Leftover McAlister’s Potato Soup

Let It Cool

Before storing your hearty potato soup, let it cool to a manageable temperature so it doesn’t warm up your fridge.

Placing hot soup in the fridge can raise the temperature inside, affecting other foods.

Airtight Containers

Divide the soup into smaller portions and place them in airtight containers.

This ensures each serving stays fresh and doesn’t absorb any other fridge odors, which could impact flavor!

Fridge or Freezer

Store your soup in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it within three to four days.

For longer storage, freeze the soup and enjoy it up to two months later for a comforting meal on a busy day.

Tempted to eat it sooner? Just thaw it overnight in the fridge and it’s ready to heat!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Starting with Cold Potatoes

When making McAlister’s potato soup, you should always start with cold potatoes.

This helps prevent them from breaking down too quickly, which can ruin the texture.

Cold potatoes are crucial for achieving the right consistency.

Overcooking the Soup

It’s key to keep an eye on your cooking time during soup preparation.

Overcooked potatoes can become mushy, affecting the soup’s overall texture.

You want your potatoes tender but not completely falling apart.

Underseasoning

Be sure to season the soup well.

Potatoes can absorb a lot of flavor, so don’t hesitate to taste and adjust.

Consider adding herbs or spices to enhance the depth of flavor.