Nothing beats a warm bowl of creamy potato soup on a chilly day. It’s comforting, hearty, and simple to make with ingredients you probably already have at home.
Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or a filling lunch, this potato soup recipe delivers rich flavor and a silky texture that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Potato Soup Recipe
This potato soup is the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and comforting. Tender potatoes simmer in a flavorful broth, thickened with cream and cheese for that classic, velvety finish.
You can enjoy it plain or load it with your favorite toppings—crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and green onions.
It’s an easy, homemade classic that tastes better than anything from a can.
Ingredients
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: cooked bacon bits, green onions, extra cheese, sour cream
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes so they cook evenly. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Set everything aside before starting to cook.
2. Sauté the Base
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it turns soft and translucent—about 3 to 4 minutes.
Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add Flour to Thicken
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir well to coat. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste. This step helps create a smooth, creamy texture later.
4. Add Broth and Potatoes
Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Add the diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
5. Mash and Cream
Once the potatoes are soft, use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash some of them directly in the pot. Leave some chunks for texture.
Stir in the milk or heavy cream, then add shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy and smooth.
6. Season and Serve
Taste and season with salt and black pepper. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes—crispy bacon bits, extra cheese, or green onions.
Potato Soup Variations
1. Loaded Potato Soup:
Top with crispy bacon, shredded cheddar, and a dollop of sour cream. It tastes just like a loaded baked potato in soup form.
2. Broccoli and Potato Soup:
Add chopped broccoli florets while simmering for extra color and nutrition.
3. Vegan Potato Soup:
Use olive oil instead of butter, skip the cheese, and replace milk with coconut milk or oat milk for a creamy dairy-free version.
4. Spicy Potato Soup:
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a gentle heat that balances the creaminess.
5. Ham and Potato Soup:
Stir in cooked ham cubes or leftover holiday ham for a heartier, savory twist.
Conclusion
This creamy potato soup recipe is a timeless comfort food that’s easy to make and endlessly customizable.
Each spoonful is rich, smooth, and deeply satisfying. Whether you enjoy it as a main meal or a cozy side, it’s guaranteed to warm you up and bring comfort to your table.
Save this recipe—you’ll want to make it again and again.