Cracker Barrel Potato Soup Recipe: Classic Southern Comfort

This Cracker Barrel Potato Soup recipe delivers rich, creamy, old-fashioned Southern comfort in every spoonful. Made with tender potatoes, buttery flavor, and a velvety texture, it’s the perfect cozy meal for chilly days or family dinners.

1.  How to Make

   The soup is prepared by simmering diced potatoes in a creamy broth, blending part of the mixture for thickness, and finishing with butter, milk, and classic seasonings for that signature Cracker Barrel taste.

2. Ingredients

   Main Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• ½ small onion, finely chopped
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Optional

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Crispy turkey bacon or bacon bits
• Chopped green onions or chives
• Sour cream
• Garlic powder for extra depth

3. Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

4. Step by Step Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat and sauté onions until soft and fragrant.
2. Add diced potatoes and chicken broth, then bring to a gentle boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 18–20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Using a potato masher or immersion blender, lightly mash some potatoes to thicken the soup.
5. Stir in milk and heavy cream, then season with salt and black pepper.
6. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until creamy and smooth.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving hot.

5. Servings

   This recipe serves 4–5 people as a main dish or 6–7 as a starter.

6. Presentation & Decoration

   Serve in rustic bowls and garnish with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, and a small pat of butter for an authentic Southern-style presentation.

7. Best Time to Eat

   Ideal for lunch or dinner, especially during fall and winter when warm comfort food is most satisfying.

8. Portion Guide

• Light Meal: 1 cup
• Hearty Serving: 1½–2 cups
• Side Dish: ¾ cup

9. Storage & Shelf Life

   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed.

10. Allergy Guide

    Contains dairy (milk, cream, butter). For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and vegan butter.

    This Cracker Barrel Potato Soup recipe is a timeless Southern classic simple, comforting, and perfect for bringing homestyle warmth to your table.

    FAQs – Cracker Barrel Potato Soup Recipe

    1. Can I make Cracker Barrel potato soup ahead of time?
    Yes, this soup can be made a day in advance. The flavors deepen as it sits—just reheat gently and add a little milk if it thickens.

    2. What potatoes work best for this recipe?
    Russet potatoes are ideal because they break down slightly, creating a naturally creamy texture similar to Cracker Barrel’s soup.

    3. Can I freeze Cracker Barrel potato soup?
    Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy content, which may separate and change texture when thawed.

    4. How can I make the soup thicker or thinner?
    For thicker soup, mash or blend more potatoes. For thinner soup, add extra milk or broth until desired consistency.

    5. Is this potato soup gluten-free?
    Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the broth and optional toppings are certified gluten-free.