This creamy potato soup is warm, hearty, and oh-so-comforting! Made with fresh potatoes, onions, and a splash of cream, it’s perfect for chilly days.
Pair it with some crusty bread, and you have a delightful meal! I love to add a sprinkle of cheese on top—it’s cheesy goodness in every spoonful! 🥔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using russet potatoes for their great texture after cooking. They break down nicely and create that creamy base! If you want a healthier option, you could try Yukon Golds or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor.
Bacon: Bacon adds a wonderful depth of flavor, but if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can use smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic that richness. Cooked mushrooms also work well here for an umami boost!
Chicken Broth: This is key for making the soup flavorful. If you prefer a vegetarian version, swap in vegetable broth instead. Homemade broth is great if you have it available!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or whole milk. If you’re dairy-free, coconut milk can add a nice creaminess without losing flavor!
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy Texture?
Creating the right creamy texture in potato soup is all about mashing techniques! After the potatoes are cooked, take your potato masher or immersion blender and gently mash or blend the soup.
- This method keeps some potato chunks for texture while still thickening the soup.
- Be careful not to over-blend if you like some heartiness in your soup. A little chunkiness adds to the experience!
- After stirring in the cream, heat through gently without boiling to maintain that rich flavor.
Enjoy your cooking journey! This creamy potato soup is sure to warm your heart and keep you cozy.
How to Make Creamy Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (for garnish)
- Bread, for serving (optional)
Time Needed:
This creamy potato soup takes about 10 minutes of preparation and around 30 minutes of cooking. In total, you’ll be enjoying a warm bowl of deliciousness in about 40 minutes, perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it’s crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside, but keep the bacon fat in the pot.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Next, add the unsalted butter to the pot with the bacon fat. Let it melt, then toss in the chopped onion. Sauté for approximately 5 minutes until the onion is translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute—this will infuse the soup with lots of flavor!
3. Add the Potatoes:
Now, it’s time to add your diced potatoes. Stir them into the onion and garlic mixture, ensuring they’re well combined.
4. Pour in the Broth:
Pour the chicken broth over the potatoes, making sure they’re covered. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
5. Blend the Soup:
Once the potatoes are soft, grab your potato masher or an immersion blender. Carefully mash or blend the soup to your desired consistency; you want it to be creamy but still have some chunky potato pieces for texture!
6. Add Cream and Bacon:
Stir in the heavy cream and the cooked bacon. Heat the soup gently without boiling, just to warm everything through.
7. Cheese It Up!
If you want a cheesy delight, now’s the time to add your shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until it’s melted and well combined.
8. Season to Taste:
Finally, season your soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning based on your preference!
9. Serve and Garnish:
Serve your creamy potato soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme. If you want an extra treat, serve alongside some crusty bread for dipping.
This soup is not just hearty and creamy, it’s also packed with flavor and warmth—perfect for a cozy meal with loved ones! Enjoy your cooking adventure! 🍽️
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are great for their creamy texture, Yukon Golds are also a fantastic choice for a slightly buttery flavor. You can even try sweet potatoes for a unique twist!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk will work well. For a dairy-free alternative, use coconut milk or almond milk, which will still provide creaminess.
How Long Will Leftover Soup Last?
Leftover creamy potato soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze creamy potato soup! Allow it to cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, and add a little milk or cream to restore creaminess.
