Soup is the ultimate comfort food! Potato soup is one of my favorites because of the way the hearty ingredients blend together to create something so wonderfully flavorful and creamy. Loaded with vegetables, bacon, and red potatoes this Gluten Free Potato Soup does just that.
There are many potato soup recipes out there but this one is convenient because this soup can also be made in one pot and you don't need an immersion blender or any special utensils!
Another reason I love potato soup is that it is made with ingredients that are easy to keep on hand. Potatoes especially are usually in my pantry. They are so versatile and simple enough to add to any meal. This soup is one use of potatoes that my whole family will happily gobble down. Everyone also always enjoys Smoked Cheesy Potatoes and Traeger Baked Potatoes. Honestly, you really can't go wrong with potatoes in my house.
Does potato soup contain gluten?
Usually, soups are thickened using flour but potato soup can easily be made gluten-free by using instant mashed potato flakes to thicken it instead. Potatoes release enough starch during cooking to make the soup thick and luscious.
What makes this potato soup gluten free?
Potatoes are naturally gluten free. It can be deceiving because they are a starchy vegetable but there is no gluten in them. Gluten is found in wheat, barely, and rye.
If you are looking for more gluten-free recipes check out my Traeger Chicken Thighs and Smoked Cauliflower!
Ingredients
You likely have most of these ingredients on hand already. If not they can all easily be found at your local grocery store.
- bacon
- onion, celery, & carrots
- red potatoes
- dried parsley
- chicken broth
- instant mashed potato flakes
- heavy cream
- shredded cheddar
- salt & pepper
How to Make Gluten Free Potato Soup
Step Two: Cook onions in bacon fat for 3-4 minutes.
Step Three: Add celery and carrots. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
Step Four: Add potatoes and parsley to the pot. Turn heat to low and cover. Cook 20 minutes.
Step Five: Add broth. Cook until potatoes soften, about 10 minutes. Use a fork to check if the potatoes are tender enough.
Step Six: Add instant mashed potatoes and cream. Stir until smooth. Stir in cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in cooked bacon. Serve immediately in a bowl or soup mug, topping with extra bacon and cheese, if desired.
Washing Potatoes
I always recommend washing your potatoes before using them to cook. They grow in the ground and therefore have dirt on them and even though "a little dirt never hurt anyone," I prefer my soup without any. Wait to wash them right before use as washing and then storing might cause mold to grow.
What extra spices and seasoning should I add?
This soup doesn't need a lot of seasoning. The flavors are simple however they complement each other well. You can add more or less sea salt and pepper to taste but the bacon and cheddar cheese give this dish all the flavor it needs.
Some nice additions are fresh garlic, fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or shallots.
I love to add extra bacon and sharp cheddar cheese to the top too before serving! You can also garnish with sour cream and green onions the way you would a baked potato to make a loaded baked potato soup. Red peppers are also a nice topper.
What do I serve with potato soup?
Potato soup is hearty and filling enough that you could enjoy it as a meal by itself. If you're looking to add something more you could have it with a sandwich, a dinner roll or biscuit, a light salad, or your favorite protein. Here are some ideas for inspiration!
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely. When your soup is ready allow it to cool completely and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 - 4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or stovetop. Another option is to freeze the soup in pre-portioned containers to enjoy it all season. Warm it up, add some fresh bacon and cheese on top, and indulge whenever you'd like!
Is Potato Soup Healthy?
I wouldn't recommend to anyone to eat potato soup 3 meals a day every day, however, it can be part of a balanced nutritious diet. The dairy products in the soup, cheese and heavy cream, provide calcium and vitamin D which are important nutrients for bone and heart health. Potatoes are also packed with nutrients and vitamins that are vital to our health. They have vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, and fiber! Again, I wouldn't recommend anyone use potato soup as their sole source of nutrition, but it has health benefits and when enjoyed in moderation can be part of a healthy diet.
My family and I indulge in Gluten-Free Potato soup once in a while, and it is worth it every single time!
How to Thicken Gluten Free Potato Soup
Like I mentioned earlier, potato soup is typically not gluten-free because of the flour needed to thicken it. I used instant mashed potatoes to thicken this one instead. With the combination of the starch released from the potatoes, and the instant mashed potatoes, the texture comes out perfect.
Ingredients
- 10 oz bacon
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 stalks celery chopped
- 2 carrots chopped
- 2 lb red potatoes
- 2 tablespoon dried parsley
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup instant mashed potato flakes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Cook bacon over medium-high heat until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel lined plate.
- Cook onions in bacon fat for 3-4 minutes. Add celery and carrots. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Add potatoes and parsley. Turn heat to low and cover. Cook 20 minutes.
- Add broth. Cook until potatoes soften, about 10 minutes.
- Add instant mashed potatoes and cream. Stir until smooth. Stir in cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in cooked bacon. Serve immediately.
Katie
This is perfect for my family and friends who are gluten free! It's just as delicious, too.
Gina
Love how thick and creamy this soup is without the need for a roux - winter decadence!
Jean
I was afraid my family would not have our beloved potato soup again, once we found out my husband had gluten issues. But, boy oh boy, this is a great substitute! Thank you. Our new go to potato soup.
Paul & Taryn
I'm so glad you liked it!