Creamy Potato Soup Recipe

Cozy Up with Our Heartwarming Creamy Potato Soup Recipe

Potato lovers will absolutely adore this magnificent creamy potato soup that promises comfort in every spoonful.

Hearty ingredients blend seamlessly to create a velvety smooth experience.

Cold winter nights call for warm, satisfying meals that hug you from the inside.

Russet potatoes provide a rich, substantial base for this classic recipe.

Crispy bacon bits and fresh chives add delightful texture and unexpected flavor dimensions.

Minimal effort yields maximum deliciousness, making this soup a perfect weeknight meal.

You’ll want to savor each delectable bite and share this soul-warming creation with everyone at your table.

Pro Tips for Creamy Potato Soup

  • Parboil potatoes for 5 minutes before adding to soup for extra creaminess and faster cooking.
  • Lower heat when adding milk and cream, stirring constantly to maintain smooth consistency.
  • Roast garlic and onions before adding to create richer, more complex taste profile.
  • Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and use plant-based milk for a vegetarian version of the soup.
  • Use cornstarch instead of flour for a gluten-free option that provides same creamy thickness.

Flavor Variations for Creamy Potato Soup

  • Vegetarian Potato Soup: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit bacon. Add roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Swap milk and heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk. Use nutritional yeast instead of cheese to maintain creamy texture and add depth.
  • Spicy Southwest Potato Soup: Incorporate diced green chilies, cumin, and cilantro. Top with jalapeños and pepper jack cheese for a bold, zesty version.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets. Use Greek yogurt instead of cream and reduce flour quantity for a lighter, protein-rich soup.

Serving Ideas for Creamy Potato Soup

  • Cozy Bread Companion: Serve with warm, crusty sourdough or garlic bread slices for dipping into the rich, creamy soup.
  • Hearty Topping Delight: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh chives on top for a burst of flavor and texture.
  • Winter Comfort Bowl: Pair with a small side salad dressed in light vinaigrette to balance the soup's richness and add freshness to the meal.
  • Rustic Meal Upgrade: Complement the soup with a glass of dry white wine or a crisp amber ale to enhance the overall dining experience.

Best Storage for Creamy Potato Soup

  • Transfer cooled soup to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent skin formation.
  • Pour soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving 1-inch space for expansion. Seal tightly and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Avoid adding dairy or garnishes before freezing.
  • Pour soup into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals. Stir between intervals to distribute heat evenly and prevent hot spots.
  • Gently reheat soup in a pot over medium-low heat. Whisk occasionally to restore creamy consistency and prevent scorching. Add a splash of broth or milk if the soup appears too thick.

FAQs

  • What type of potatoes work best for this soup?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal because they have high starch content and create a creamy, smooth texture when cooked.

  • Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip the bacon. The recipe will still be delicious and hearty.

  • How can I thicken the soup if it's too thin?

Create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then slowly stir into the soup to achieve desired thickness.

  • Is this soup freezer-friendly?

The soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Just avoid adding dairy when freezing, and stir in cream after reheating for best results.

Creamy Potato Soup: Smooth and Satisfying

  • Quick and Easy Comfort: Whip up this creamy potato soup in just a few simple steps, perfect for busy home cooks craving a warm, satisfying meal.
  • Versatile Flavor Canvas: Customize the soup with your favorite toppings like crispy bacon, fresh chives, or a dollop of sour cream to make it uniquely yours.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Goodness: This hearty soup appeals to all ages, making it an ideal dish for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights at home.
  • One-Pot Wonder: Minimize kitchen cleanup with this single-pot recipe that combines delicious ingredients without creating a mountain of dishes.

Ingredients for Creamy Potato Soup

Main Ingredients:
  • Potatoes: Starchy vegetables that provide the hearty base for the creamy soup.
  • Chicken Broth: Liquid that creates the foundational flavor and helps cook the potatoes.
  • Milk: Adds creaminess and smooth texture to the soup.
  • Heavy Cream: Enhances richness and provides a luxurious mouthfeel.
Aromatic Base:
  • Onions, Garlic: Provide depth of flavor and aromatic foundation for the soup.
Thickening and Seasoning Components:
  • Butter, Flour: Create a roux to thicken the soup and add a rich base.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste profile.
  • Cayenne, Paprika: Optional spices that add a subtle heat and complexity.
Cheese and Garnish:
  • Shredded Cheese: Melts into the soup for extra flavor and creaminess.
  • Bacon, Chives: Classic toppings that add texture and fresh flavor.
  • Sour Cream, Croutons: Optional garnishes that provide additional richness and crunch.

How to Prepare Creamy Potato Soup

How to Prepare Creamy Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté Aromatic Base

Heat butter in a large pot over medium flame.

Toss in finely chopped onions and minced garlic, letting them dance and soften until they become translucent and fragrant.

Step 2: Create Velvety Roux

Sprinkle flour into the pot, stirring constantly to create a smooth, golden mixture.

Cook for a couple of minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste and build a rich foundation for your soup.

Step 3: Build Liquid Foundation

Slowly pour chicken broth into the pot, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Cook Potato Goodness

Add diced potatoes to the simmering broth.

Let them cook until they’re tender and easily pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 5: Introduce Creamy Luxuriousness

Pour in:
  • Whole milk
  • Heavy cream

Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching and ensure a silky smooth texture.

Step 6: Season and Enhance

Sprinkle in:
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Optional cayenne or paprika for a subtle kick

Taste and adjust seasonings to your preference.

Step 7: Customize Soup Texture

Choose your preferred consistency:
  • Blend soup completely for ultra-smooth texture
  • Leave some chunks for rustic appeal

Step 8: Add Cheesy Goodness

Stir in shredded cheese until melted and fully incorporated.

Remove from heat to prevent overcooking.

Step 9: Serve with Spectacular Toppings

Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with:
  • Crispy crumbled bacon
  • Fresh chopped chives
  • Dollop of sour cream
  • Crunchy croutons

Enjoy your soul-warming potato soup immediately!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Creamy Potato Soup Recipe

Creamy Potato Soup Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 11 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty creamy potato soup delivers comfort in a bowl with rich, velvety textures. Wisconsin cheddar and crisp bacon create a satisfying meal that warms souls from first spoonful to last.


Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes and Base Ingredients:

  • 56 medium russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy and Thickening Ingredients:

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup flour
  • 2 cups milk (whole milk or 2%)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Seasoning and Garnish:

  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup chopped chives or green onions
  • 46 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

Instructions

  1. Warm a spacious cooking vessel over medium flame, melting butter until it shimmers and becomes translucent.
  2. Introduce finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they become soft and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  3. Sprinkle flour across the aromatic vegetable mixture, stirring continuously to create a smooth, golden roux that will thicken the soup’s base.
  4. Slowly incorporate chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps and create a silky liquid foundation.
  5. Gently drop diced potatoes into the broth, allowing them to simmer and tenderize for 15-20 minutes until they yield easily when pierced with a fork.
  6. Pour milk and heavy cream into the pot, creating a luxurious, velvety texture while simmering for an additional 5 minutes.
  7. Season the soup with salt and pepper, optionally adding a hint of cayenne or paprika for subtle warmth and complexity.
  8. Decide on the soup’s consistency: use an immersion blender for a smooth texture or leave some potato chunks for rustic appeal.
  9. Fold in shredded cheese off the heat, allowing residual warmth to melt the cheese without scorching.
  10. Ladle into serving bowls and garnish with crispy bacon crumbles, fresh chives, a dollop of sour cream, or crunchy croutons for added dimension.

Notes

  • Swap out dairy for lactose-free alternatives like almond milk and vegan cheese to create a diet-friendly version for those with dairy sensitivities.
  • Boost nutrition by adding chopped kale or spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking, which blends seamlessly with the creamy texture.
  • Use russet or Yukon gold potatoes for the best creamy consistency, as they break down easily and create a naturally thick soup base.
  • Prevent cream from curdling by keeping the soup at a gentle simmer and stirring consistently when adding dairy components.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 16 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star