Description
This Creamy Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, velvety, and loaded with flavor. Made with tender potatoes, a creamy broth, and optional crispy bacon, this soup is perfect for cold nights or anytime you crave a cozy, satisfying meal. Easy to make in one pot, it can be customized with different toppings and mix-ins to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Scale
- Base Ingredients:
- 4 medium potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold), diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp flour (for thickening)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Optional Add-ins & Toppings:
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ½ cup sour cream (for garnish)
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Make the Base: Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then slowly add the broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
- Cook the Potatoes: Add diced potatoes, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Bring to a simmer and cook until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Blend for Creaminess: Use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup for a smoother consistency, leaving some chunks for texture.
- Add Dairy & Cheese: Stir in heavy cream (or milk) and shredded cheddar cheese, if using. Let it melt and thicken the soup.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if needed.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with bacon, green onions, and sour cream if desired.
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and omit bacon.
- Extra Cheesy: Stir in extra shredded cheese for a richer soup.
- Thicker Soup: Mash more potatoes or add an extra tablespoon of flour.
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Loaded Potato Style: Top with crispy bacon, extra cheese, and chives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Creamy Potato Soup Recipe Easy Potato Soup Homemade Potato Soup One-Pot Comfort Soup Loaded Potato Soup