When the chill of winter settles in, there’s nothing quite as soothing as a warm bowl of potato soup. Picture this: the rich aroma of simmering onions and garlic fills your kitchen, beckoning everyone home as the golden potatoes soften into creamy perfection. Inspired by a cozy family tradition, this creamy hearty potato soup combines buttery gold potatoes with crispy bacon for a dish that not only satisfies hunger but warms the heart. It’s the kind of comfort food that wraps around you like a soft blanket.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or lazy weekend gatherings, you can customize each bowl with your favorite toppings, whether it’s a sprinkle of cheddar cheese or a dollop of sour cream. As the flavors meld and deepen, leftovers hold their own, making this recipe a staple in my home. Join me as we create this delightful dish that’s set to become a beloved part of your recipe repertoire.
Why is Potato Soup the ultimate comfort food?
Hearty, Creamy Delight: Each spoonful of this potato soup offers a warm embrace, perfect for chilly nights.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Customizable Toppings: Personalize your bowl with crispy bacon, shredded cheese, or fresh chives for a gourmet touch.
Perfect for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep.
Family Favorite: Its rich flavors and creamy texture appeal to all ages, making dinner a joyful occasion! Don’t forget to check out my tips for the best results as you whip up this delicious recipe!
Potato Soup Ingredients
• Perfect for crafting your creamy masterpiece.
For the Soup Base
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and helps sauté the base; feel free to substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
- Yellow Onion – Builds flavor in the base; shallots can work well if you prefer a milder taste.
- Garlic – Contributes aromatic flavor; fresh cloves are always best for maximum impact.
- All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the soup; ensuring it’s fresh helps achieve the best texture.
- Heavy Cream – Provides a decadent, rich texture; half-and-half works as a lighter alternative.
- Chicken Broth – Forms the soup’s base; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian potato soup option.
For the Potatoes
- Gold Potatoes – The star of the dish, known for their buttery flavor and creamy texture; russet or red potatoes can be substituted based on texture preference.
For Seasoning
- Ground Pepper – Enhances flavor; freshly ground pepper can elevate the taste.
- Salt – Enhances all flavors; remember to adjust based on the saltiness of your broth.
- Ancho Chili Powder (optional) – Adds depth and a hint of heat; omit it if you prefer a milder soup.
For the Finishing Touches
- Bacon – Provides a savory flavor and is essential for that crispy topping; smoked turkey bacon is a lighter option.
- Sour Cream – Imparts creaminess and a tangy twist; using it at room temperature prevents curdling in the soup.
For Customizable Toppings
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully on top and adds a rich flavor; feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda or mozzarella!
- Chives – Freshly chopped for garnish, they give a burst of freshness and color; scallions can be a quick substitute.
Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s dive into the steps to create this heartwarming, creamy potato soup!
How to Make Creamy Hearty Potato Soup
- Cook the Bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove it and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot for added flavor.
- Sauté Onions: Melt the butter in the bacon fat. Add diced yellow onion and sauté until translucent, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, making sure not to let it brown. The aroma will be delightful!
- Create a Roux: Sprinkle the flour into the pot, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant, forming a roux that will thicken the soup.
- Pour in Broth and Milk: Gradually add the chicken broth and milk, whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Incorporate Cream and Seasonings: Stir in the heavy cream, salt, ground pepper, and optional ancho chili powder for a touch of heat.
- Simmer Potatoes: Add the potato chunks, increase the heat to medium-high, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Blend for Creaminess: Carefully blend half the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender, then return it to the pot for a creamy texture.
- Mix in Sour Cream and Bacon: Gently stir in the sour cream and reserved bacon, letting the soup simmer for a few more minutes to meld all those wonderful flavors.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon, shredded cheese, dollops of sour cream, and chopped chives. Enjoy every warm spoonful!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of spicy paprika for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Potato Soup
Fridge: Keep your potato soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Let it cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Remember to omit sour cream before freezing to ensure the best texture upon reheating.
Defrosting: Thaw the soup overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
Reheating: Gently warm your potato soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in 1-minute intervals. Add a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess if needed.
Make Ahead Options
These Hearty Potato Soup options are perfect for busy home cooks! You can prepare the soup base (steps 1-8) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply let it cool, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, gently reheat the soup on the stove and stir in the sour cream and reserved bacon (step 9) just before serving to maintain that creamy texture. This method ensures your soup stays fresh and delicious, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. Plus, the flavors intensify overnight, giving you a comforting meal that’s just as delightful the next day!
Potato Soup Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore these delicious twists and make this comforting soup your own!
- Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit bacon for a delightful plant-based alternative.
- Creamy Delight: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version that brings a subtly sweet flavor.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick, adjusting to your preferred heat level.
- Texture Twist: For an extra creamy soup, blend all the potatoes instead of just half for an indulgent treat.
- Veggie Boost: Mix in finely chopped carrots or celery at the sautéing stage for added nutrition and flavor depth.
- Cheesy Goodness: Stir in cream cheese before blending for an ultra-creamy finish that kids will love.
- Herbed Variations: Add a dash of thyme or rosemary during cooking for fragrant herbal notes that elevate the soup.
- Fun Toppings: Try adding crispy shallots or roasted garlic as garnishes for a crunchy contrast!
Enjoy experimenting and creating a potato soup that embodies your family’s tastes!
What to Serve with Creamy Hearty Potato Soup?
Embrace the warming essence of a cozy meal with delightful pairings that elevate your creamy potato soup experience.
-
Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, the crunchy exterior and soft inside complement the smooth texture of the soup beautifully.
-
Simple Side Salad: Fresh greens with a tangy vinaigrette lighten the meal, balancing the rich creaminess of the soup.
-
Garlic Parmesan Knots: These buttery, herb-infused knots add a flavorful twist and a satisfying chew to each bite.
-
Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy and aromatic, they soak up the savory broth while offering an irresistible cheesy delight.
-
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies brings extra nutrition and colorful contrast, contrasting well with the hearty soup.
-
Chardonnay or Light Beer: A chilled glass of wine or a light beer enhances your meal’s flavors without overwhelming the palate, perfect for chillier evenings.
-
Apple Crisp: Round off the meal with a warm, sweet dessert that’s crunchy on top and soft in the middle, honoring the quintessential comfort food vibe.
-
Cheddar Cheese Slices: Serve alongside for a sharp bite; melting the cheese on the soup adds an indulgent creaminess that feels luxurious.
Expert Tips for Perfect Potato Soup
- Uniform Potato Cubes: Ensure your potatoes are cut into even pieces for consistent cooking and creamy texture throughout the soup.
- Don’t Skip the Roux: This crucial step thickens the potato soup—skipping it can result in a raw flour taste that can ruin your dish.
- Cool Before Blending: Let the soup cool slightly prior to blending to avoid pressure build-up in the blender, which can cause splatters.
- Sour Cream Timing: Add sour cream after removing the soup from heat to prevent curdling, ensuring a smooth, creamy finish.
- Customize Wisely: Feel free to play with toppings and spices—just remember, adding too many strong flavors can overwhelm the comforting essence of this potato soup.
- Storage Savvy: If you intend to freeze the soup, leave out the sour cream for the best texture upon reheating later.
Creamy Hearty Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best potatoes for my soup?
When it comes to making creamy potato soup, I always recommend using gold potatoes due to their buttery flavor and creamy texture. Look for potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes—any dark spots or soft areas are signs of age. If unavailable, russet potatoes can work for a thicker consistency, while red potatoes offer a chunkier texture.
How should I store leftover potato soup?
Absolutely! You can store your potato soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing it up—this helps preserve the flavor and texture. If you notice any separation or thickening, a splash of milk or broth can help revive it when reheating.
Can I freeze potato soup, and what are the best practices?
Certainly! You can freeze potato soup for up to 3 months. However, omit adding sour cream before freezing, as it can change texture and cause curdling when reheated. To freeze, let the soup cool and then transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space for expansion. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
What do I do if my potato soup is too thick?
If you find your soup a bit too thick, don’t fret! Simply add a little warm milk or chicken broth, stirring it in until you reach your desired consistency. This method not only adjusts the thickness but can also bring back that fabulous creaminess.
Is this soup suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, with a simple substitution, you can adapt this creamy potato soup for gluten-free diets! Instead of all-purpose flour, use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to create the roux. Just remember to whisk thoroughly to avoid lumps when adding liquids. Always check ingredient labels to ensure your broth and added toppings are also gluten-free!
Creamy Potato Soup That Warms Your Soul and Tummy
Equipment
- - Large pot
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Feel free to substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
- 1 medium Yellow Onion Shallots can work well if preferred.
- 2 cloves Garlic Fresh cloves are best.
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Ensure it's fresh for the best texture.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half works as a lighter alternative.
- 4 cups Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
For the Potatoes
- 2 pounds Gold Potatoes Russet or red potatoes can be substituted.
For Seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground Pepper Freshly ground pepper elevates the taste.
- 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust based on broth saltiness.
- 1 teaspoon Ancho Chili Powder Optional, for a hint of heat.
For the Finishing Touches
- 6 slices Bacon Smoked turkey bacon is a lighter option.
- 1 cup Sour Cream Add at room temperature to prevent curdling.
For Customizable Toppings
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Other cheeses like gouda or mozzarella can be used.
- 1/4 cup Chives Scallions can be a substitute.
Instructions
How to Make Creamy Hearty Potato Soup
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove it and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- Melt the butter in the bacon fat. Add diced yellow onion and sauté until translucent, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, making sure not to let it brown.
- Sprinkle the flour into the pot, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes until it's fragrant, forming a roux.
- Gradually add the chicken broth and milk, whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Stir in the heavy cream, salt, ground pepper, and optional ancho chili powder.
- Add the potato chunks, increase the heat to medium-high, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Carefully blend half the soup until smooth, then return it to the pot.
- Gently stir in the sour cream and reserved bacon, letting the soup simmer for a few more minutes.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon, shredded cheese, dollops of sour cream, and chopped chives.