The Perfect Potato Soup

Are you looking for the best potato soup recipe that is creamy, flavorful, and easy to make? This homemade potato soup is the ultimate comfort food, packed with hearty potatoes, rich broth, and delicious seasonings. Whether you’re preparing a cozy meal for a chilly night or looking for a satisfying dish the whole family will love, this easy potato soup recipe is perfect.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and Delicious – The perfect blend of potatoes, cream, and cheese creates an ultra-smooth texture.
- Quick and Easy – Made with simple ingredients in just 30 minutes.
- Customizable – Add bacon, cheese, or vegetables to make it your own.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Stores well for leftovers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this classic potato soup, you will need:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced (Russet or Yukon Gold work best)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter option)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional but highly recommended!)
- 4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh for extra flavor)
- Chopped green onions or parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and soft, about 3 minutes.
2: Cook the Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
3: Blend for Creaminess
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or leave some chunks for texture. If using a regular blender, work in batches.
4: Add Cream and Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
5: Season and Serve
Season with salt, black pepper, and thyme. Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon, green onions, and extra cheese.
Tips for the Best Potato Soup
- Use starchy potatoes like Russets for a smooth texture or Yukon Gold for a naturally buttery taste.
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes instead of blending all of them.
- Make it dairy-free by using coconut milk or almond milk instead of cream.
- Enhance the flavor with a dash of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of shredded Parmesan.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed.
This creamy potato soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food, easy to make, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this homemade potato soup will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it today and enjoy a bowl of warm, creamy goodness!