Creamy Potato Soup Recipe

There are few things more comforting than a bowl of Creamy Potato Soup on a chilly evening. This soul-warming favorite boasts rich, velvety potatoes, crisp bacon, and just the right touch of creaminess to make every spoonful totally irresistible. Whether you’re searching for a cozy weeknight dinner or want to impress your friends with a classic, this Creamy Potato Soup delivers pure comfort in a bowl every single time.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Creamy Potato Soup is how approachable the ingredient list is. Every item brings something special to the party—flavor, heartiness, or a pop of color—so don’t be tempted to skip a thing. Here’s what you’ll need, and why it matters:

• Bacon: Adds deep smoky flavor and a satisfyingly crisp garnish on top.
• Unsalted Butter: Helps the onions cook down and adds extra richness.
• Onion: Delivers natural sweetness and depth to the soup base.
• Garlic: Lends a gentle aromatic kick that makes every bite irresistible.
• Russet Potatoes: The key to that signature creamy, starchy texture.
• Chicken Broth: Infuses the soup with savory backbone and mouthwatering flavor.
• Heavy Cream: Creates that luscious, silky finish everyone loves in Creamy Potato Soup.
• Sour Cream: Adds just the right tang and extra smoothness.
• Salt: Wakes up and balances all the other flavors in the pot.
• Black Pepper: Offers a subtle, warming spice to every spoonful.
• Dried Thyme: Infuses each bite with a hint of earthy herbal flavor.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts right in for an oozy, comforting finish.
• Fresh Chives: Brings a pop of color and fresh oniony bite for the perfect garnish.

How to Make Creamy Potato Soup

Step 1: Crisp Up the Bacon

Start off by cooking your diced bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. You’ll want golden, crispy pieces—these will be saved for topping and will also give a little magic to the soup base. Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon, leaving a bit of that rich bacon drippings behind to flavor what comes next.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

With about a tablespoon of bacon drippings still in the pot, toss in the butter and let it melt. Add in your diced onion and cook for three to four minutes, stirring until they’re beautifully softened and aromatic. Finish this step by stirring in your minced garlic and letting it cook just until fragrant—about 30 seconds should do the trick!

Step 3: Simmer Potatoes and Broth

Now add your diced russet potatoes to the flavor-packed base, along with the chicken broth, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Turn up the heat to bring the pot to a gentle boil, then lower it and let everything simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are fork-tender and easily mashable.

Step 4: Blend for Creaminess

Time to create that signature Creamy Potato Soup texture! For silky smooth soup, use an immersion blender right in the pot, or carefully transfer the soup in batches to a standard blender. If you prefer more texture, just blend half and leave the rest chunky—either way, you can’t go wrong.

Step 5: Stir in the Creamy Additions

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Let everything melt together until you reach that dreamy consistency. Taste, adjust the seasoning if needed, and get ready for the best spoonfuls of your life.

How to Serve Creamy Potato Soup

Garnishes

No bowl of Creamy Potato Soup is complete without a flurry of delicious garnishes. Top each serving with that crispy bacon you set aside, a generous sprinkle of fresh chives, and maybe even a little more cheddar if you’re feeling extra cozy. A grind of black pepper or a tiny dollop of sour cream can also make every bowl pop.

Side Dishes

This soup shines alongside all kinds of sides. Serve it with a thick slice of crusty bread—perfect for dipping—or a crisp green salad to brighten things up. Garlic bread, homemade biscuits, or even a tangy apple slaw are wonderful partners that keep the meal feeling balanced and special.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to turn your Creamy Potato Soup into a showstopper, try hollowing out small bread boules to make edible soup bowls, or serve tiny portions as shooters for a fun appetizer. Lining up a toppings bar with different cheeses, scallions, and crunchy bits lets everyone make their bowl their own.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your Creamy Potato Soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to a sealed container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days—it reheats wonderfully and can even taste better as the flavors meld.

Freezing

For longer storage, pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. You can freeze Creamy Potato Soup for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight for the creamiest texture.

Reheating

To reheat, warm gently in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. If the soup seems extra thick after chilling, a splash of broth or milk will loosen it right up. Avoid boiling to maintain that smooth, dreamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I make Creamy Potato Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can skip the bacon or swap it for your favorite plant-based alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The soup will still be incredibly rich and satisfying.

What kind of potatoes work best?

Russet potatoes are ideal for Creamy Potato Soup due to their starchiness, but Yukon Golds are a great substitute for a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture.

Do I have to blend the soup completely?

Nope! It’s totally up to your texture preference. Blend it smooth for a silky soup, or leave it chunky for some bite. Sometimes, blending just half is the best happy medium.

How can I add more flavor?

Feel free to build extra depth by sautéing a diced carrot or celery stalk with the onions, or stirring in a pinch of smoked paprika. Switching out cheddar for smoked gouda is also delicious!

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe scales up beautifully. Just make sure your pot is big enough and keep an eye on the simmer time—it may take a couple extra minutes for the potatoes to get tender.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving warmth, comfort, and sheer deliciousness, you can’t do better than making a pot of Creamy Potato Soup. It’s endlessly adaptable, easy to prepare, and always guaranteed to bring a smile. Don’t wait for a chilly day—give this recipe a try and turn an ordinary evening into something special!

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