There’s nothing quite like the smell of smoky bacon simmering with fresh vegetables to stir childhood memories at the dinner table. When the weather cools, I find myself reaching for an easy, warm staple that checks all the boxes: comfort, flavor, and, most importantly, kid-friendly appeal. This Easy Kid-Friendly Creamy Potato Soup is a delightful blend of tender potatoes, savory bacon, and a touch of creaminess that leaves folks of all ages craving more.
I remember the first time I made this soup for my toddler—her eyes lit up with each flavorful spoonful, and soon, it became a weekly go-to. Minimal prep time means this recipe seamlessly fits into our busy evenings, and with its hearty texture and rich taste, it’s an instant favorite that even picky eaters will ask for again and again. Plus, you can easily customize it for your family’s preferences! So grab your apron and let’s turn those simple ingredients into a warm hug in a bowl that promises satisfaction for everyone at the table.
Why is Easy Kid-Friendly Potato Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting Warmth: This dish wraps you in comfort with its warm, creamy texture and smoky flavors, making every spoonful a hug from the inside out.
Quick to Prepare: With merely 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy hearty meals without fuss.
Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will rave about this soup’s irresistible flavor, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Versatile Ingredients: Swap bacon for your preferred protein or add in seasonal veggies to suit your family’s taste, ensuring it remains a dinner favorite.
Simple Steps: The easy-to-follow recipe empowers even novice cooks to create a satisfying meal, boosting your kitchen confidence.
Bring comfort back to your dinner table with this delicious soup, and check out our tips for serving alongside warm dinner rolls or a vibrant salad for the perfect meal!
Easy Kid-Friendly Potato Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Bacon – adds a smoky flavor and depth to the soup; try using Oscar Mayer for consistent results.
• Celery (2 stalks, finely diced) – brings in aromatic flavor and texture; chop finely for smooth integration.
• Onion (1, finely diced) – creates a fragrant base; finely diced ensures it blends well into the soup.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – enhances overall flavor; essential for a rich, aromatic depth.
• Potatoes (9, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes) – this is the heart of the soup; use Russet or Yukon Gold for extra creaminess.
For the Broth
• Chicken Stock (4 cups) – serves as a savory base; Swanson is a great choice for balanced flavor.
• Salt & Pepper – vital for flavor enhancement; adjust seasoning at the end as needed.
For the Creaminess
• Butter (3 tbsp) – adds richness; Kerrygold is preferred for its superior quality.
• Flour (1/4 cup) – essential for thickening the soup via a roux.
• Cream (1 cup) – incorporates a luxurious, silky texture into the soup; pick a heavy cream for best results.
For Extra Flavor
• Tarragon (1 tsp) – infuses subtle sweetness that kids will love; a perfect complement to potato soup.
• Cilantro (3 tsp) – provides a fresh herbal note; can be omitted if desired.
• Nutmeg (1/4 tsp) – adds warmth; use sparingly to maintain mild flavors for kids.
Dive into making this Easy Kid-Friendly Potato Soup, where comfort and rich flavors await in every bowl!
How to Make Easy Kid-Friendly Potato Soup
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Cook the Bacon: In a large pot, cook bacon pieces over medium heat for 8-10 minutes until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving 1/4 cup of the bacon fat in the pot for added flavor.
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Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced celery and onion to the bacon fat and sauté for 5 minutes, until softened and fragrant. This will create a delicious base for your soup.
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Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Your kitchen will start to smell wonderful at this point!
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Incorporate Potatoes: Toss in the cubed potatoes, stirring for 2-3 minutes to coat them with the bacon fat. This step helps to build flavor before adding the liquid.
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Combine with Stock: Return the crispy bacon to the pot, then add chicken stock to cover the potatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
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Simmer Until Tender: Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. You’ll want them soft enough to blend but not mushy.
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Make the Roux: In a separate skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually stir in the cream while simmering for 4-5 minutes until thickened.
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Blend Into Soup: Pour the cream mixture into the pot of potatoes while stirring to combine. This will add the creamy richness we all love!
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Blend for Texture: Using an immersion blender, blend half of the soup until creamy, leaving some chunks for texture. This creates that cozy feel everyone loves.
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Season and Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, and enjoy the smiles around your dinner table!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Kid-Friendly Potato Soup preparations are a blessing for busy home cooks! You can chop the vegetables (celery, onion, and garlic) up to 3 days in advance; just refrigerate them in an airtight container to preserve freshness. Additionally, you can cook the bacon ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the prepped veggies in bacon fat, add the potatoes, chicken stock, and continue with the recipe as usual. Keep in mind that blending the soup at the end will restore its creamy texture. Planning ahead means less stress on hectic weeknights and just as delicious soup your whole family will love!
How to Store and Freeze Easy Kid-Friendly Potato Soup
Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors develop beautifully overnight, making it taste even better on day two.
Freezer: To freeze, omit some of the cream when preparing the soup. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Add fresh cream when reheating to restore its creamy texture.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. If it thickens too much, add a splash of chicken stock or water to achieve the desired consistency.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the soup out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety; refrigerate promptly after serving.
Expert Tips for Easy Kid-Friendly Potato Soup
Uniform Potato Pieces: Ensure potato chunks are cut into uniform sizes (about 1/2-inch) to promote even cooking and a creamy texture.
Blend Wisely: If using an immersion blender, blend slowly to control texture; leave some potato chunks for a heartier soup that kids love.
Taste Before Serving: Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end of cooking; your chicken stock may already contain salt, so take care not to over-season.
Creamy Consistency: Add the cream mixture only when potatoes are fully tender to prevent curdling and ensure a silky finish in your easy kid-friendly potato soup.
Safety First: When blending hot soup in batches, remove the center cap of the blender lid to allow steam to escape and minimize pressure buildup.
Easy Kid-Friendly Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to tweak this recipe to suit your family’s tastes and dietary needs!
- Vegetarian: Replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, meat-free alternative that still packs a savory punch.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute cream with coconut milk for a deliciously creamy and dairy-free version of this comforting soup.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in diced carrots or peas for an additional pop of color and nutrition, making every spoonful even heartier.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños during cooking for a gentle heat that kids can handle without fuss.
- Cheesy Goodness: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese just before serving for a rich, cheesy twist that will delight both kids and adults alike.
- Herbed Twist: Enhance the flavor by mixing in fresh herbs like dill or chives, offering a fresh and fragrant note perfect for springtime.
- Nutty Flavor: Incorporate a handful of toasted nuts such as walnuts or pecans just before serving for a delightful crunch and additional texture.
- Baked Potato Style: Top each bowl with sour cream, green onions, and shredded cheese to mimic the flavors of a loaded baked potato, turning this soup into a fun family favorite!
What to Serve with Easy Kid-Friendly Potato Soup?
Enhance your meal by pairing this creamy potato soup with delicious sides that complete the experience, making every bite a delight.
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Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft and fluffy, these rolls are perfect for soaking up the savory broth, making each bite a comforting delight.
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Crispy Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup, balancing flavors beautifully.
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Roasted Vegetables: The caramelized sweetness of mixed roasted veggies adds depth and color to your meal, while introducing a healthy crunch.
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Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Melty, gooey grilled cheese pairs perfectly with the smoothness of the soup, creating a classic comfort food duo that everyone loves.
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Savory Garlic Bread: Fragrant garlic bread adds a savory touch that complements the creamy soup, inviting a warm, cozy atmosphere to your table.
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Fruit Salad: A light, vibrant fruit salad can offer a sweet and refreshing end to your meal, cleansing the palate after the richness of the soup.
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Sparkling Lemonade: Refreshing and slightly tangy, a glass of sparkling lemonade revitalizes your taste buds and adds a celebratory touch to your meal.
With these delicious pairings, every bowl of Easy Kid-Friendly Potato Soup becomes a cherished gathering moment around the table!
Easy Kid-Friendly Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right potatoes for this soup?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. They provide a creamy texture when cooked, which is essential for a kid-friendly soup. Look for potatoes that are firm and without dark spots or blemishes. The smoother the skin, the better.
How long can I store leftover potato soup in the fridge?
You can store your Easy Kid-Friendly Potato Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors develop overnight, which often makes the soup taste even better! Just remember to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain its freshness.
Can I freeze this potato soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! To do so, I recommend omitting some of the cream during the cooking process. After cooling, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat on the stove, and add fresh cream to restore its creamy texture.
What if my soup is too thick after reheating?
Very common! If you find that your soup has thickened too much upon reheating, simply add a splash of chicken stock or water while stirring it over low heat. This will help bring back the desired consistency without compromising the flavor.
Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you or your loved ones have allergies, be mindful of the bacon, cream, and chicken stock. For a dairy-free option, you can substitute the cream with coconut milk and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. Always check labels for potential allergens when using packaged ingredients.
Is this recipe suitable for kids with dietary restrictions?
Yes, it can be! To make this soup vegetarian, simply swap out the bacon for mushrooms or omit the meat entirely. You can also use a plant-based cream to cater to dairy-free diets. I often make variations to suit our family’s dietary needs, and it has never disappointed!
Easy Kid-Friendly Potato Soup with Smoky Bacon Goodness
Equipment
- - Large pot
- - Skillet
- immersion blender
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 8 oz Bacon adds a smoky flavor; try using Oscar Mayer for consistent results
- 2 stalks Celery finely diced for smooth integration
- 1 medium Onion finely diced to create a fragrant base
- 3 cloves Garlic minced for enhanced flavor
- 9 medium Potatoes peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes; use Russet or Yukon Gold for creaminess
For the Broth
- 4 cups Chicken Stock try Swanson for balanced flavor
- Salt essential for flavor enhancement
- Pepper essential for flavor enhancement
For the Creaminess
- 3 tbsp Butter Kerrygold is preferred for quality
- 1/4 cup Flour essential for thickening the soup
- 1 cup Cream heavy cream for best results
For Extra Flavor
- 1 tsp Tarragon adds subtle sweetness
- 3 tsp Cilantro can be omitted if desired
- 1/4 tsp Nutmeg adds warmth; use sparingly
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- In a large pot, cook bacon pieces over medium heat for 8-10 minutes until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving 1/4 cup of the bacon fat in the pot.
- Add the diced celery and onion to the bacon fat and sauté for 5 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Toss in the cubed potatoes, stirring for 2-3 minutes to coat them with the bacon fat.
- Return the crispy bacon to the pot, then add chicken stock to cover the potatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- In a separate skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually stir in the cream while simmering for 4-5 minutes until thickened.
- Pour the cream mixture into the pot of potatoes while stirring to combine.
- Using an immersion blender, blend half of the soup until creamy, leaving some chunks for texture.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, and enjoy!