This creamy potato soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! It’s smooth, rich, and filled with cozy flavors that make it perfect for chilly days.
Honestly, I can’t resist adding a sprinkle of cheese on top—it’s the best part! Enjoy it with some crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal that feels like home.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using Russet or Yukon Gold for their creamy texture. If you want to experiment, you can try red potatoes, but they won’t yield the same creaminess.
Broth: Chicken broth gives a rich flavor, but vegetable broth works just as well for a vegetarian option. If you have homemade broth, definitely use that for added depth.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream makes it luxuriously creamy, but half-and-half is a lighter alternative. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk or almond milk can be used, but they will change the flavor.
Cheese: Cheddar adds a nice tang. If you’re looking for alternatives, try gouda, mozzarella, or even a dairy-free cheese. I love adding a bit of cream cheese for an extra creamy texture!
Bacon: While it adds great flavor, you can swap it with crispy fried onions for a vegetarian touch or skip it entirely for a lighter version.
How Do I Create the Perfect Creamy Texture?
Getting that perfect creamy texture is key to a great potato soup. This involves a couple of important techniques:
- Start by creating a roux with flour and butter. This will thicken your soup and give it body.
- When adding potatoes, let them cook until tender. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes, and you want them soft!
- Use a potato masher or an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup. This creates creaminess while still leaving chunks for a hearty bite.
- Finally, add the cream gradually while stirring to prevent lumps and ensure everything blends smoothly.
By following these steps, you’ll end up with a deliciously creamy soup every time!
Creamy Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy potato soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook, making a total of 40 minutes from start to finish. What a quick and tasty way to enjoy a warm meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This will create a lovely base for your soup!
2. Create the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic while stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes. This flour mixture, known as a roux, will help thicken the soup.
3. Add the Broth:
Slowly whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth into the roux, making sure to remove any lumps. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, allowing it to thicken slightly.
4. Cook the Potatoes:
Add the diced potatoes to the pot. Lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are completely tender.
5. Mash for Creaminess:
Using a potato masher or an immersion blender, mash some of the potatoes in the soup. This adds a wonderful thickness while leaving some chunks for texture—perfect for a hearty bite!
6. Add Cream and Season:
Stir in the heavy cream, heating the soup through but avoiding a full boil. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste for that extra flavor boost.
7. Serve with Garnishes:
Ladle the warm soup into bowls and top with your choice of shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon crumbles, and fresh chives to make each bowl extra special.
8. Enjoy!
Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side to soak up all that wonderful creaminess. This soup is perfect for cozy nights in!
Indulge in this deliciously creamy potato soup that brings comfort and warmth in every spoonful. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for their creamy texture, you can also use red or white potatoes. Just keep in mind that they might not yield the same creaminess!
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. The flavors will still come through wonderfully, and you won’t miss the meat!
Can I Prep This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, just reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if it gets too thick.
