There’s nothing more comforting on a chilly day than a bowl of hot, flavorful soup. When that soup features tender smoked brisket, creamy potatoes, and rich seasonings, you know you’re in for a treat. This Smoked Brisket Potato Soup is a hearty and satisfying dish that brings together all the elements of comfort food in one pot. Whether you have leftover smoked brisket or are smoking it fresh for this recipe, the results will be the same: a savory, filling soup that will warm you up from the inside out.
This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, meal prep, or simply as a special treat when you’re craving something that’s both indulgent and flavorful. The creamy base, smoky brisket, and tender potatoes make for a dish that will surely become a favorite. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious soup step by step.
Ingredients for Smoked Brisket Potato Soup
To make this comforting dish, you will need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound smoked brisket, cubed – The star of the soup, offering that smoky flavor that gives this dish its unique taste.
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed – Provides the heartiness and texture to the soup.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped – Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the soup’s fragrance and flavor.
Broth and Cream Ingredients
- 4 cups beef broth – This is the base of the soup, offering a rich, savory flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Adds a velvety richness to the soup, creating a creamy texture.
Cooking Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the onions and garlic, infusing the oil with flavor.
- 1 tablespoon butter – Adds a touch of richness and enhances the flavor of the sautéed onions.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – A fragrant herb that complements the beef and potatoes perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste – To season the soup and bring out the best flavors.
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme) for garnish
- Crusty bread or crackers for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Smoked Brisket Potato Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by preparing the ingredients for the soup:
- Peel and Cube the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into bite-sized cubes. This will help them cook quickly and evenly in the soup.
- Chop the Onion and Mince the Garlic: Dice the onion finely, and mince the garlic cloves. Set them aside to add to the pot later.
- Cube the Smoked Brisket: If you have leftover smoked brisket, cut it into small cubes. If you’re using fresh smoked brisket, smoke and cook it first, then cube it for the soup.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- Once the oil and butter are hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly until the garlic becomes fragrant but doesn’t burn.
Step 3: Add the Potatoes and Broth
- After the onions and garlic have softened, add the cubed potatoes to the pot. Stir to mix them with the onions and garlic.
- Pour in 4 cups of beef broth and stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Allow the soup to simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Add the Smoked Brisket and Cream
- Once the potatoes are tender, add the smoked brisket to the soup, stirring to combine. The brisket will heat through and infuse the soup with its smoky flavor.
- Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring it into the broth to create a creamy, smooth texture.
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and allow the soup to simmer on low for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Serve the Soup
- Once the soup has thickened and the flavors are well combined, ladle it into bowls.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, and serve it with crusty bread or crackers on the side for a complete meal.
Tips for Making the Best Smoked Brisket Potato Soup
- Using Leftover Brisket: If you have leftover brisket from a recent meal or BBQ, this soup is a great way to repurpose it. Simply cube the leftover brisket and follow the same steps for the soup.
- Make It Creamier: For an even creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender. This will create a velvety base while keeping some chunks of potato for texture.
- Add Extra Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as carrots, celery, or even corn, for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Smoked Brisket Substitute: If you don’t have smoked brisket on hand, you can substitute it with another cut of beef such as roast beef, or even cooked pulled beef. You can also try adding a small amount of smoked paprika to bring in that smoky flavor.
- Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water towards the end of cooking, or mash some of the potatoes in the pot to thicken the broth.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This Smoked Brisket Potato Soup is an indulgent and flavorful dish that is perfect for any season, but especially during fall and winter. The smoky brisket pairs beautifully with the creamy potatoes, and the combination of herbs and beef broth creates a deeply satisfying flavor profile.
Whether you’re using leftover smoked brisket or cooking it fresh for this soup, you’re guaranteed to end up with a rich, hearty meal that is perfect for warming up on a cold day. The ease of preparation and the ability to customize it to your taste makes this soup a must-try.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use fresh brisket instead of smoked brisket?
While smoked brisket provides a unique depth of flavor, you can use fresh brisket. For a smoky taste, you can add a bit of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the broth to replicate that smoky flavor.
2. How long can I store this soup?
This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. If you want to store it longer, the soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
3. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can easily make this soup dairy-free. Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. This will still provide the creamy texture without the dairy.
4. What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it with fresh, crusty bread, garlic bread, or cornbread. You can also enjoy it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables to complement the rich flavors of the soup.
5. Can I use a slow cooker to make this soup?
Yes! To make this soup in a slow cooker, sauté the onions and garlic first, then add them along with all the other ingredients (except the cream) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Stir in the cream at the end and heat through before serving.
Conclusion
This Smoked Brisket Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food. It combines the smoky, savory brisket with creamy potatoes and rich broth to create a meal that is both filling and satisfying. Whether you have leftover brisket or you’re making it fresh, this soup is a great way to enjoy the flavors of smoked meat in a new and delicious way.
Perfect for fall and winter, this soup is sure to be a hit with family and friends. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and packed with flavor—making it the ideal dish to serve when you want something hearty and comforting. So gather your ingredients, get your pot ready, and enjoy the warmth and deliciousness of this Smoked Brisket Potato Soup!