The Recipe Reality Check

Every month, Paul tries to pick something that will challenge me in the kitchen, but this time, he went a little easier on me.

He chose Wonton Soup, which is one of his go-to orders from our local Chinese takeout. His goal? Find a version we could make at home that still hits those same comforting, takeout style flavors.

And honestly, this one delivered in a way I didn’t fully expect.

Wonton soup sounds like one of those recipes that would be complicated, but this was actually very simple to put together. Once everything was prepped, it came together quickly and easily, making it a great option for a weeknight when you want something warm and comforting without a lot of effort.

I did make one adjustment: I left out the mushrooms. We are just not a mushroom household, and this recipe worked perfectly fine without them.

Overall, this felt like a great way to get those takeout style flavors at home without the price tag, which is always a win.

The Taste Test: A Clear Winner for Paul

This was definitely one of those meals where the reactions around the table varied a bit.

Family Taste Test

✔️ My Verdict: I liked it. It’s not my all time favorite soup, but it was still enjoyable and I can absolutely see the appeal.

✔️ Paul’s Verdict: Loved it. This is one of his usual takeout orders, and he was so happy to have a homemade version. His only complaint? That I didn’t also make sweet and sour chicken and rice to go with it 🙄😂

✔️ Ben’s Verdict: Tried a bite, but wasn’t a fan. I think the wontons themselves were a little too “different” for him, which is very on brand for a 3 year old.

✔️ Charlotte’s Verdict: Didn’t try this one.

✔️ Overall Verdict: A big win for Paul, a solid “like” from me, and a pass from the kids this time.

Final Thoughts

This is one of those recipes that really shines if you’re looking to recreate takeout favorites at home.

It’s simple, comforting, and comes together quickly, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner when you want something a little different.

While it may not be a full family favorite in our house, it’s definitely earned a spot as a “Paul’s Pick” repeat, especially for nights when I want to make something I know he’ll really enjoy.

Want to try the recipe for yourself? You can find it here! Wonton Soup

Looking for more weeknight meal ideas? You can find more reviews here! Easy Weeknight Meals

This week’s recipe is a little different because I didn’t pick it. This marks the very first Paul’s Pick, a recipe my husband specifically asked me to try after watching a new content creator he’s been into lately. With the temperature stuck in the teens and soup season in full force, this loaded potato soup felt perfectly timed. Easy to make, ultra comforting, and unapologetically rich, this soup ended up being a big hit. Especially with Paul, who may or may not have eaten almost three bowls.

Why This Recipe Was Different

This week’s recipe came with a specific request from Paul, which officially makes this the first ever Paul’s Pick here on Recipe Reality Check.

He recently started watching Justin Holmes on YouTube and asked if I’d try one of his recipes. Between that and the fact that the temperature outside wasn’t climbing out of the teens, soup felt like exactly the right move. So on a cold winter night, with no toddler at the table and plenty of time to simmer something cozy, I gave it a go.

What This Soup Actually Is

Let’s clear something up right away. This is not just a typical potato soup. It’s got chunky potatoes, bacon, a creamy and rich broth and plenty of Velveeta cheese to tie it all together

Think: comfort food soup that feels filling and indulgent.

How It Went (Real Life Version)

This recipe was very easy to prepare, which is always appreciated when it’s cold enough outside that leaving the house feels offensive. I did prepare the bacon ahead of time.

The steps were straightforward, nothing complicated or fussy, and the soup came together without me needing to babysit it the entire time. It smelled incredible while cooking rich, savory, and very “this will be good” energy.

The Velveeta added a really nostalgic flavor for me. Growing up, their shells and cheese was one of my favorites, and that familiar taste came through in the best way possible. Comfort food in the truest sense.

The Taste Test

This one was a clear hit.

• Me: I really enjoyed it. Creamy, hearty, and satisfying without feeling boring. The potatoes and bacon give it texture and substance, so it doesn’t feel one note.
• Paul: Loved it. Had about two and a half bowls, declared it a new favorite and then admitted he probably wouldn’t eat quite that much next time because it is very rich.
• Ben: Not home, so no toddler review this week but honestly, that might have helped Paul get seconds and thirds.

Final Verdict

This loaded potato soup is absolutely going into our soup rotation.

It’s easy, comforting, and perfect for those brutally cold days when you want something warm and filling without a lot of effort. The richness means it’s probably not an every week soup, but as a cozy winter meal? It’s a winner.

And honestly, if this is the standard for Paul’s Picks, I’m not mad about it.

You can find the original recipe here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WDM5n3m4h7s

Looking for more cozy meals? Try here! Comfort Food

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