Creamy Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, velvety bowl of soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, you’re in the right place. This Creamy Potato Soup Recipe is one of my absolute favorites to make because it’s both incredibly easy and downright delicious. Whether you’re new to making soups or just need a go-to recipe to wow your family, you’ll find that this one hits all the right notes—rich, smooth, and packed with cozy flavors.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Creamy Potato Soup Recipe plays a crucial role in creating that silky texture and deep flavor. I always recommend using good-quality potatoes and fresh broth for the best results.

• White Delight Potatoes: These starchy potatoes break down nicely, helping to naturally thicken the soup and give it that creamy mouthfeel.
• Chicken broth: Provides savory depth—homemade or store-bought both work, just try to pick a flavorful one.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps soften the onions for a sweeter base flavor.
• Yellow onion: Gives a mild, mellow sweetness that builds the soup’s flavor without overpowering it.
• Minced garlic: Just a touch to wake up the flavors without stealing the spotlight.
• Flour: Your thickening agent, which makes this soup luxuriously creamy without heavy cream.
• Milk: Adds creaminess and rounds out the broth, making the base nice and smooth.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning—never underestimate their power to make flavors pop.
• Shredded cheese, bacon, scallions (optional toppings): Great for adding texture and extra flavor, but totally up to you!

Variations

I love experimenting with this Creamy Potato Soup Recipe, and honestly, you can customize it to fit whatever mood you’re in or what you have on hand. Feel free to play around with toppings and mix-ins to make it all your own.

• Vegetarian version: Easily swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and omit bacon toppings, or replace them with crispy mushrooms for an earthy twist—I’ve done that many times with great results.
• Extra hearty: Add diced cooked ham or cooked sausage to boost protein and make this soup a more filling meal.
• Fresh herbs: Stir in chopped thyme or chives before serving for a fresh pop of flavor that brightens the creamy base.
• Spicy kick: A pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika gives it a subtle heat—I discovered this trick when I craved a little warmth on cold evenings.

How to Make Creamy Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Cook Potatoes Until Soft

Start by combining diced white potatoes and chicken broth in a large pot. Bring it up to a boil, then simmer for about 10 minutes until the potatoes are tender when poked with a fork. When I first tried this, I realized that boiling until just the right softness is key—overcooked potatoes can sometimes make the soup gluey. So keep an eye on them and test often!

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

While the potatoes cook, melt butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Toss in chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Then add minced garlic and cook for another minute or so. This step builds a flavorful base, and I love how the aroma fills my kitchen during this part.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Roux Base

Whisk in the flour with the butter, onions, and garlic, cooking for a minute to get rid of that raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the milk while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Keep cooking over medium heat until the mixture thickens, which takes about 5-7 minutes. This is where it starts to get creamy, and your patience here really pays off in the soup’s luscious texture.

Step 4: Combine and Adjust Texture

Pour your creamy milk and onion mixture into the pot with the cooked potatoes and broth. Here’s where you get to make the soup just how you like it—if you want some chunks, you can leave it as is. But we usually blend it briefly in a food processor, just 20-30 seconds, to break down the potatoes and get that perfect smooth but still slightly rustic texture.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Give it a good stir and taste for salt and pepper, adjusting as needed. Then ladle the soup into bowls and pile on your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, crispy bacon, or sliced scallions. At this point, my family goes crazy for that crispy bacon crunch—it’s seriously the best part!

How to Serve Creamy Potato Soup Recipe

Garnishes

For me, toppings make this soup sing. I’m a big fan of shredded sharp cheddar because it melts beautifully, alongside crispy bacon bits and fresh scallions which add that welcome crunch and bright pop of color. Sometimes I throw on a dollop of sour cream or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky twist—I recommend trying whatever combo makes your taste buds sing.

Side Dishes

This Creamy Potato Soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping. I often serve it alongside a simple green salad for a more balanced meal, or try some warm cornbread muffins if you want to keep things cozy and country-style. My family loves the soup with a sprinkle of extra cheese and a side of roasted vegetables to round things out.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions or entertaining, I sometimes serve the soup in hollowed-out mini bread bowls—that always wows the crowd and adds a rustic charm. If you want to get fancy, garnish each bowl with a swirl of herb-infused oil or a sprinkle of crispy fried onions for texture. Presentation matters, and trust me, a visually appealing bowl invites everyone to dig in eagerly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, I store leftover Creamy Potato Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It holds up beautifully when reheated gently, and sometimes the flavors even deepen overnight. I usually give it a good stir before warming it back up to redistribute any settled potatoes or creaminess.

Freezing

Freezing creamy soups can be tricky, but I’ve found that this recipe freezes quite well if you skip the toppings first. Freeze the soup in portioned containers and thaw overnight in the fridge. When reheating, bring it to a simmer on the stove and whisk gently—it might separate a little but mix together beautifully with a quick stir.

Reheating

The best way to reheat Creamy Potato Soup is on the stove over low to medium heat. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and maintain that smooth texture. I avoid microwaving because it can heat unevenly, but if you do, stir halfway through heating. Adding a splash of milk can help restore creaminess if it thickens too much.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Potato Soup Recipe has quickly become one I return to time and time again, especially when I’m looking for something that’s both effortless and totally satisfying. It’s just the kind of recipe where you can throw on your favorite toppings, cozy up with a warm bowl, and feel all the comforting vibes. If you haven’t tried making it yet, I hope you do soon—you’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create something so hearty and delicious right in your own kitchen.

Print