As the temperature drops outside, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a steaming bowl of potato soup to cradle you in comfort. Imagine walking into your kitchen, the scent of sizzling bacon filling the air, mingling with the rich aroma of sautéed onions and garlic. This isn’t just any potato soup; it’s a hearty creation bursting with flavor and creamy goodness that transforms a simple meal into a cozy gathering.
Made with tender Yukon Gold potatoes, luscious heavy cream, and a touch of crispy bacon, this dish will quickly become a staple on your winter menu. Not only is it delightfully easy to prepare, but this classic recipe also offers room for creativity — swap in your favorite toppings or adapt it to suit your dietary needs without losing that comforting essence. So, grab your pot, and let’s dive into making a bowl of potato soup that’s sure to warm both heart and home.
Why is this Potato Soup a must-try?
Comforting Warmth: There’s nothing like a steaming bowl of this hearty soup to provide a cozy embrace during chilly days.
Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can master this dish effortlessly.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of crispy bacon, garlic, and rich cream creates a taste sensation that lingers long after your last spoonful.
Customizable Delight: Whether you prefer a meatless version or want to switch up toppings, this potato soup adapts to your cravings.
Perfect for Sharing: Gather your loved ones; this dish brings family and friends together, making it ideal for any gathering.
Leftover Love: Once the flavors meld, the leftovers taste even better — perfect for a quick meal later in the week!
Potato Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to flavor; substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
• Yellow Onion – Forms the aromatic base; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
• Garlic – Enhances depth of flavor; use garlic powder if fresh is not available.
• All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the soup; opt for gluten-free flour to make this a gluten-free potato soup.
• Chicken Broth – Provides foundational flavor; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian alternative.
• Milk – Adds creaminess; whole milk is recommended, although almond milk is a good dairy-free substitute.
For the Creamy Texture
• Heavy Cream – Ensures extra creaminess in the soup; coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free version.
• Sour Cream – Contributes tanginess and creaminess; consider using Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
For the Potatoes
• Gold Potatoes – The star ingredient, offering a buttery flavor and creamy texture; russet potatoes can also work but yield a thicker soup.
For Seasoning
• Ground Pepper – Adds a bit of heat; freshly ground pepper gives the best flavor.
• Salt – Essential for proper seasoning; adjust to taste.
• Ancho Chili Powder – Optional for added depth; omit if avoiding spices.
For Garnishing
• Bacon – Key for adding crunch; use turkey bacon or skip for a vegetarian option.
• Toppings (optional) – Consider crispy bacon, shredded sharp cheddar, additional sour cream, or fresh chives for a delightful finish.
How to Make Hearty Potato Soup
Cook the bacon: In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook the bacon until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove it from the pot and set aside, leaving the rendered fat inside.
Sauté the onion: Add the unsalted butter to the bacon fat, melting it down before adding the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until the onion turns translucent and fragrant.
Add garlic and flour: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, then add the all-purpose flour. Cook this roux for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Incorporate the broth and milk: Gradually pour in the chicken broth and milk while stirring to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Mix in the cream and potatoes: Stir in the heavy cream, salt, pepper, and optional chili powder. Add the diced Yukon Gold potatoes and let them simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re tender.
Blend half the soup: Using an immersion blender or regular blender, carefully blend half of the soup until smooth, then return it to the pot.
Finish with sour cream and bacon: Stir in the room temperature sour cream and the majority of the bacon bits. Allow the soup to simmer gently for another 5-10 minutes without boiling.
Serve hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the reserved crispy bacon, shredded cheddar, extra sour cream, and fresh chives as desired.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an extra flavor twist.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative with your potato soup to make it uniquely yours!
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour to keep every creamy bite suitable for gluten-sensitive diners. It’ll still thicken just as beautifully!
Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and sour cream with dairy-free yogurt for a rich, creamy texture minus the dairy.
Vegetarian Twist: Swap the bacon for sautéed mushrooms or smoked tempeh. This option adds a delightful earthiness that pairs perfectly with the potatoes.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the mix for a warming heat that balances the creamy soup.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the simmering phase. They infuse the soup with a delightful aroma and an herbal freshness.
Loaded Potato Soup: Top your soup with shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, and a dollop of sour cream for that fully-loaded experience. The extra toppings transform each bowl into a party!
Flavor Boost: Stir in a tablespoon of mustard or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for an unexpected depth of flavor that leaves everyone guessing.
Cheesy Goodness: For a different twist, melt in some cheddar cheese at the end for a creamy, cheesy variant that warms the soul with each spoonful.
Embrace your inner chef and make this comforting dish reflect your family’s tastes!
How to Store and Freeze Potato Soup
Fridge: Keep your potato soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days; the flavors will meld beautifully over time.
Freezer: Store potato soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. It’s best to omit sour cream before freezing; add it fresh after reheating.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently, and add a splash of milk for creaminess if needed.
What to Serve with Hearty Creamy Potato Soup?
As you prepare to indulge in this warm, comforting soup, let’s explore the perfect accompaniments to enhance your meal experience.
Crusty Bread: The ideal partner for scooping up every delicious bite, a freshly baked baguette or sourdough adds a delightful crunch.
Simple Side Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
Garlic Breadsticks: Fluffy breadsticks infused with garlic and herbs create a satisfying side that complements the soup’s richness beautifully.
Savory Cheese Biscuits: These flaky, cheesy delights add an extra layer of comfort and pair wonderfully with the hearty flavors of the soup.
Steamed Vegetables: Bright, seasonal veggies like broccoli or carrots offer a burst of color and nutrients, enhancing the overall meal’s balance.
Crispy Bacon Bits: For the ultimate indulgence, sprinkle extra crispy bacon on top of your soup. It’s a flavorsome nod to what’s inside.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm slice of apple crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is a delightful way to close this cozy dinner.
Red Wine: A glass of smooth red wine will elevate the meal, pairing well with the creamy and savory notes in the soup.
Make Ahead Options
These hearty potato soup preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the Yukon Gold potatoes up to 24 hours in advance; just keep them submerged in cold water to prevent browning. Additionally, you can sauté the onions and garlic, then let them cool before refrigerating for up to 3 days. For an even smoother finish, blend half of the soup ahead of time, and store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the soup gently, stir in the room temperature sour cream, and incorporate the reserved bacon for that delicious crunch. This way, you’ll enjoy a homemade potato soup that’s just as delicious with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Perfect Potato Soup
- Evenly Cut Potatoes: Cut potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure they cook evenly and blend smoothly in your potato soup.
- Blend Carefully: Always let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid splattering. Never overfill the blender to keep the soup safe and mess-free.
- Add Cream Off Heat: Incorporate sour cream after removing the soup from heat to prevent curdling and maintain a smooth texture in your potato soup.
- Freeze Smartly: If planning to freeze, omit sour cream before freezing. Add fresh sour cream after reheating for the best texture.
- Skip the Lumps: Gradually whisk in broth and milk while stirring to prevent lumps from forming, ensuring a creamy consistency throughout your soup.
Hearty Creamy Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of potatoes should I use for the best flavor in my potato soup?
Using Yukon Gold potatoes is highly recommended for their buttery flavor and creamy texture. They’re ideal for making this potato soup luscious. If you prefer, you can substitute with russet or red potatoes, but keep in mind that russets will lead to a thicker soup.
How should I store leftover potato soup?
Store your potato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors tend to improve as it sits! Make sure to allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it to ensure freshness.
Can I freeze the potato soup?
Absolutely! To freeze your potato soup, allow it to cool and then pour it into freezer-safe containers. Avoid adding sour cream before freezing; instead, stir it in after reheating. This way, you can keep the texture creamy. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What to do if my potato soup is too thick?
If you find that your potato soup is thicker than you like, simply add a bit of chicken broth or milk while stirring over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency. You can also blend in a little more liquid with a hand blender for a smooth texture.
Can I modify this recipe to make it vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt this potato soup for vegetarian or vegan diets. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, omit the bacon, and substitute heavy cream and sour cream with coconut cream and almond yogurt, respectively. This will still yield a deliciously creamy potato soup without any animal products!
Is it safe to serve potato soup to my pet dog?
While some ingredients in potato soup, like cooked potatoes and broth, are safe for dogs, be cautious about spices, onions, and garlic. These can be toxic to pets. It’s best to set aside a small portion of plain potato before adding seasonings and toppings if you’d like to share a taste with your furry friend.
Creamy Potato Soup: Your Ultimate Cozy Comfort Food!
Equipment
- - Large pot
- immersion blender
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
- 1 medium Yellow Onion Shallots can be used for a milder taste.
- 3 cloves Garlic Use garlic powder if fresh is not available.
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Opt for gluten-free flour for gluten-free potato soup.
- 4 cups Chicken Broth Vegetable broth for a vegetarian alternative.
- 1 cup Milk Whole milk is recommended; almond milk is a good dairy-free substitute.
For the Creamy Texture
- 1 cup Heavy Cream Coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free version.
- 1/2 cup Sour Cream Consider using Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
For the Potatoes
- 2 pounds Gold Potatoes Russet potatoes can also work.
For Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Ground Pepper Freshly ground pepper gives the best flavor.
- to taste Salt Essential for proper seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon Ancho Chili Powder Optional for added depth.
For Garnishing
- 6 slices Bacon Use turkey bacon or skip for a vegetarian option.
- Toppings (optional) Crispy bacon, shredded sharp cheddar, extra sour cream, fresh chives.
Instructions
How to Make Hearty Potato Soup
- Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium-high heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.
- Add the unsalted butter to the bacon fat, melt it, then add diced onion. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, then add all-purpose flour. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually pour in chicken broth and milk while stirring. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in heavy cream, salt, pepper, and optional chili powder. Add diced Yukon Gold potatoes and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
- Blend half the soup until smooth, then return it to the pot.
- Stir in room temperature sour cream and most of the bacon bits. Simmer gently for another 5-10 minutes.
- Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with reserved crispy bacon, cheddar, extra sour cream, and chives.