Introduction
McAlister’s Country Potato Soup is one of the deli’s most popular comfort food menu items. According to McAlister’s, the soup combines the flavors of potato, onion, bacon, chives, and cheese in a rich and creamy broth.
This hearty soup delivers everything people love about a loaded baked potato in spoonable form. The combination of tender potatoes, smoky bacon, cheddar jack cheese, green onions, and a creamy base creates a satisfying meal perfect for lunch, dinner, or cold-weather comfort food. McAlister’s ingredient information also confirms the use of potatoes, onions, bacon, cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, garlic, chives, and a creamy soup base.
This homemade copycat recipe recreates the restaurant favorite with simple ingredients while delivering the same rich texture and savory flavor.
McAlister’s Country Potato Soup Recipe Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Recipe Type | Soup |
| Cuisine | American |
| Preparation Time | 15 Minutes |
| Cooking Time | 35 Minutes |
| Total Time | 50 Minutes |
| Servings | 6 |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Best Served | Hot |
What Makes McAlister’s Country Potato Soup Special
McAlister’s describes its Country Potato Soup as a combination of potato, onion, bacon, chives, and cheese.
Key features include:
- Creamy potato base
- Smoky bacon flavor
- Cheddar jack cheese
- Green onions and chives
- Rich and hearty texture
- Restaurant-style comfort food
- Perfect meal on its own
McAlister’s Country Potato Soup Recipe Ingredients
For the Soup
- 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 8 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all purpose flour
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 4 green onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives
- Extra bacon crumbles
Ingredient Breakdown
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Russet Potatoes | Creamy texture |
| Bacon | Smoky flavor |
| Onion | Savory depth |
| Celery | Flavor foundation |
| Garlic | Richness |
| Chicken Broth | Soup base |
| Heavy Cream | Creaminess |
| Cheddar Cheese | Bold cheese flavor |
| Monterey Jack | Smooth melting texture |
| Chives | Fresh finish |
McAlister’s Country Potato Soup Instructions and Steps
Step 1
Cook the bacon in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat until crispy.
Step 2
Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate.
Reserve about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pot.
Step 3
Add onions and celery to the pot.
Cook for 5 minutes until softened.
Step 4
Add garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 5
Add butter and allow it to melt completely.
Step 6
Sprinkle flour over the vegetables.
Whisk continuously for 2 minutes to create a roux.
Step 7
Slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking constantly.
Step 8
Add diced potatoes.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 9
Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until potatoes become tender.
Step 10
Use a potato masher to partially mash some of the potatoes.
Leave plenty of chunks for texture.
Step 11
Stir in milk and heavy cream.
Step 12
Add salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Step 13
Simmer for another 5 minutes.
Step 14
Add half of the cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese.
Stir until melted.
Step 15
Return most of the bacon to the soup.
Reserve some for garnish.
Step 16
Taste and adjust seasonings.
Step 17
Serve hot and top with remaining cheese, bacon, green onions, and chives.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Approximate Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Sodium | 820mg |
Values vary based on ingredients used.
Essential Tips for McAlister’s Country Potato Soup
Use Russet Potatoes
Russet potatoes break down beautifully and create the classic creamy texture.
Keep Some Potato Chunks
A combination of mashed and chunky potatoes produces the best consistency.
Cook Bacon First
Bacon drippings add incredible flavor to the soup base.
Shred Your Own Cheese
Freshly shredded cheese melts better than packaged shredded cheese.
Simmer Gently
Avoid boiling after adding dairy products.
Let the Soup Rest
Allowing the soup to rest for five minutes before serving improves texture.
Why This Soup Is So Popular
The popularity of McAlister’s Country Potato Soup comes from its balance of flavors and textures.
Creamy Base
The combination of potatoes, milk, cream, and cheese creates a luxurious texture.
Smoky Bacon
Bacon provides richness and depth.
Hearty Ingredients
The soup feels substantial enough to serve as a complete meal.
Loaded Potato Flavor
Many diners enjoy it because it tastes like a loaded baked potato in soup form.
McAlister’s ingredient listings highlight bacon, potatoes, cheddar jack cheese, green onions, garlic, and chives as key components.
Customization and Pairing Ideas
Add More Protein
Try adding:
- Diced ham
- Shredded chicken
- Smoked sausage
Increase the Cheese
Add:
- Extra cheddar
- Pepper jack
- Smoked gouda
Add Vegetables
Include:
- Carrots
- Corn
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
Pairing Suggestions
Serve with:
- Crusty bread
- Garlic bread
- Dinner rolls
- Club sandwiches
- Turkey sandwiches
- Side salad
Best Toppings for Country Potato Soup
| Topping | Flavor Benefit |
|---|---|
| Bacon Crumbles | Smoky richness |
| Cheddar Cheese | Sharp flavor |
| Monterey Jack | Creamy texture |
| Green Onions | Freshness |
| Chives | Mild onion flavor |
| Sour Cream | Extra creaminess |
| Cracked Pepper | Mild spice |
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Freeze for up to 2 months.
Stovetop Reheating
Warm over low heat while stirring frequently.
Microwave Reheating
Heat in short intervals and stir between each interval.
Add Liquid if Needed
A splash of milk or broth helps restore consistency.
Alternatives Substitutes Similar Dishes
| Original Ingredient | Substitute |
|---|---|
| Russet Potatoes | Yukon Gold Potatoes |
| Heavy Cream | Half and Half |
| Bacon | Ham |
| Cheddar Cheese | Colby Jack |
| Chicken Broth | Vegetable Broth |
Similar Soups
- Loaded Baked Potato Soup
- Cheddar Potato Soup
- Wisconsin Cheese Soup
- Broccoli Cheese Soup
- Clam Chowder
- Corn Chowder
- Potato Bacon Chowder
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using Waxy Potatoes
Waxy potatoes do not create the same creamy texture.
Overcooking the Dairy
High heat can cause curdling.
Skipping the Bacon Drippings
Bacon drippings contribute significant flavor.
Adding Cheese Too Quickly
Gradual addition prevents clumping.
Overseasoning Early
Taste after the cheese has melted before adding extra salt.
Queries and Related FAQs
What is McAlister’s Country Potato Soup made of?
McAlister’s describes it as a soup featuring potato, onion, bacon, chives, and cheese. Ingredient listings also include cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, garlic, and green onions.
What kind of cheese is used in McAlister’s Country Potato Soup?
McAlister’s ingredient information lists cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes. Many people find the flavor improves after sitting overnight in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze potato soup?
Yes, although dairy-based soups may require stirring after thawing.
Why is my potato soup too thin?
Either the potatoes need additional cooking time or the soup requires more mashing to release starches.
What potatoes work best?
Russet potatoes create the most authentic texture.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes. Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth.
What goes well with potato soup?
Sandwiches, salads, dinner rolls, and crusty bread all pair wonderfully.
Summary
McAlister’s Country Potato Soup is the definition of comfort food. Featuring tender potatoes, smoky bacon, cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, onions, garlic, chives, and a rich creamy broth, it delivers the same flavors as a loaded baked potato in every spoonful. McAlister’s officially highlights the combination of potato, onion, bacon, chives, and cheese as the hallmark of this popular soup.
This homemade copycat version recreates the restaurant favorite using simple ingredients and straightforward cooking methods. Whether served as a hearty lunch, cozy dinner, or cold-weather comfort meal, this Country Potato Soup is sure to become a family favorite.
