There’s nothing more comforting on a chilly evening than a bowl of Best Creamy Potato Soup. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a silky, flavorful soup perfect for dinner or leftovers. With its rich texture and warming aroma, it brings a touch of cozy home to any table.
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What Makes This Creamy Potato Soup Special?
This version blends classic techniques with a few chef’s tweaks to deliver the ultimate potato soup. It uses a roux base, well-cooked potatoes, and a balance of dairy and broth to ensure smooth creaminess without heaviness. The result is a soup that’s indulgent yet balanced ideal for cold nights or when you need something soothing and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups milk or half-and-half
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Chopped chives or green onions, for garnish
These ingredients combine to form a rich and hearty soup with the warm flavors of potato, cheese, and savory bacon.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crisp. Remove most of it, leaving a tablespoon of fat in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add butter to the pot. Once melted, stir in onion and cook until translucent (~3 minutes). Add garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
Step 3: Make the Roux & Simmer
Sprinkle the flour into the onion mixture, stirring to form a paste. Gradually whisk in broth and milk, ensuring no lumps. Add diced potatoes and bring to a gentle boil. Simmer until potatoes are tender (15–20 minutes).
Step 4: Blend & Enrich
Use an immersion blender or mash part of the soup to achieve a creamy consistency while leaving some chunks. Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar until melted and silky.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Ladle into bowls, top with reserved bacon bits, chives, or extra cheese. Serve while hot and pair with crusty bread or side salad.
Tips, Variations & Why You’ll Love It
- Lean version: Replace heavy cream with extra milk, or use Greek yogurt for richness.
- Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and omit bacon; add smoked paprika for depth.
- Chunky or smooth: Control texture by blending portion or all of the soup.
- Storage: Keeps for up to 3 days in the refrigerator in a sealed container. Reheat gently over low heat.
- Freezing tip: Freeze without dairy, then stir in cream when reheating.
FAQs
Can I use Yukon Gold potatoes instead of russet?
Yes Yukon Golds are creamier and will yield a slightly denser texture.
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free thickener like rice flour or cornstarch.
What if my soup is too thick?
Stir in extra broth or milk gradually until desired consistency.
How to reheat without losing creaminess?
Heat slowly over low heat and stir gently avoid boiling to prevent separation.
Conclusion
This Best Creamy Potato Soup is the kind of recipe that warms you from the inside out. Rich, luscious, and comforting it’s perfect for weeknights, gatherings, or when you crave that cozy feeling in a bowl.
Give this recipe a try, make it your own, and don’t forget to share your delicious version with @EatTreatsRecipes on Pinterest or your favorite social media!