There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of creamy potato soup to chase away the chill and bring a little comfort to your day. This recipe is the ultimate hug in a bowl—warm, hearty, and packed with rich, velvety flavors.
Imagine tender potatoes simmering gently in a savory broth, their natural goodness blending perfectly with a touch of creaminess to create a dish that feels like pure home.
The best part? This cozy classic comes together in under an hour, making it not just delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up.
With simple ingredients that are probably already in your pantry, it’s the perfect go-to for those moments when you crave something nourishing and satisfying. Get ready to make a family favorite that will keep everyone coming back for seconds!
The Ultimate Comfort Food: Potato Soup
Potato Soup
This potato soup is thick, creamy, and bursting with flavor. Made with simple ingredients, it combines the natural sweetness of potatoes with the savory notes of onions and garlic, creating a satisfying dish that is both filling and comforting.
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Chopped green onions (optional)
Instructions
1. Prep the Ingredients: Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small, evenly-sized cubes—this ensures they cook evenly and blend smoothly later. Next, finely chop your onion. The smaller the pieces, the faster it’ll sauté and release its sweet, savory flavor into the soup.
2. Sauté Time: Grab a large, sturdy pot and melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted and bubbling, add your chopped onion. Stir frequently and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion turns translucent and soft. This step is key to building the savory base of your soup.
3. Cook the Potatoes: Carefully add the diced potatoes to the pot, followed by the broth. Stir briefly to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. To test, poke a piece with a fork—it should slide right through easily. If the potatoes need more time, give them a few extra minutes.
4. Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot, blending until it reaches your desired consistency. Want a creamy, velvety finish?
Blend until completely smooth. Prefer a bit of texture? Stop blending when there are still chunks of potato left. No immersion blender?
No problem! Carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, making sure not to overfill, and puree until smooth. Just remember to leave some space in the blender to prevent steam buildup.
5. Add Creaminess: Lower the heat and stir in your milk or cream, letting it gently heat through without boiling—this keeps it from curdling
. Stir well to incorporate the creaminess throughout the soup. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to your liking. Start with a little, then adjust until the flavors pop to perfection.
6. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the creamy soup into bowls and get ready to dress it up. Top each serving with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese for extra richness.
Add a touch of freshness with chopped fresh green onions or parsley. You can even toast up some bread or add a handful of croutons on the side for a much needed crunch.
Notes
Get fancy with your toppings by adding a dollop of sour cream and/or crispy bacon pieces.
Potato Soup FAQ
Can I use a different type of potato?
Absolutely! While the recipe doesn’t specify, I recommend Yukon gold potatoes for their creaminess. But if all you’ve got are russet, red potatoes or even sweet potatoes, feel free to use them. They’ll slightly change the texture and flavor, but that’s part of the fun of experimenting in the kitchen.
How can I make the soup vegan?
Easy peasy! Swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative, like olive oil or vegan butter. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth (that part’s already an option), and replace the milk or cream with a non-dairy option like coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk. Just make sure it’s unsweetened or not vanilla flavored so you don’t end up with a dessert soup situation!
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Of course! This recipe is a great base. Carrots, cauliflower, celery, or even corn would work beautifully. Chop them into small pieces and sauté them along with the onion at the start. Bonus points for sneaking in extra nutrition!
How long does this soup last in the fridge?
Potato soup can last up to 4 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. When reheating, warm it gently over the stove and add a splash of milk or broth if it has thickened up too much.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, but with a small caveat. Soups with dairy (like this one) can sometimes separate after freezing. If you plan to freeze it, leave out the milk or cream and stir it in after reheating. It’ll taste fresh and creamy all over again.
What can I serve with this soup?
Oh, so many things! Fresh crusty bread or warm dinner rolls are classic. If you’re feeling fancy, a side salad or roasted veggies make a lovely pairing. For a bolder option, serve it alongside grilled cheese or a hearty sandwich.
Do I have to blend the soup?
Not at all! If you like a chunkier texture, simply mash the potatoes lightly with a potato masher instead of blending. This way, you’ll have a creamier broth with satisfying pieces of potato in every bite.
Can I skip the cheese?
Definitely! The soup is plenty delicious without it. But if you want to skip the cheese AND still want an extra “something,” try adding a drizzle of olive oil, smoked paprika, or crushed croutons for added flavor and texture.
Can this soup be made ahead of time?
For sure! Potato soup actually tastes better the next day since the flavors have more time to meld together. Just reheat it gently before serving, and you’re good to go.
Any tips for garnishing the soup?
Yes! While green onions and parsley are great go-tos, don’t be afraid to get creative. Crispy bacon bits, roasted garlic, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, or even a dollop of sour cream would be amazing toppings. It’s the chef’s kiss moment!
