This soup is thick, velvety, and loaded with real potatoes, savory broth, and melted cheese. Every bite wraps you up in warmth, and it’s so easy to make with ingredients you already have at home. Whether served with crusty bread, crispy bacon, or a sprinkle of green onions, creamy potato soup is a timeless favorite you’ll make again and again.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One Pot Wonder: Simple ingredients, easy steps, minimal cleanup
- Creamy Texture: Silky, rich, and filling without being too heavy
- Cozy Comfort: The perfect warm-you-up meal for chilly nights
- Customizable: Make it vegetarian, gluten-free, or extra indulgent
- Kid & Crowd Friendly: Loved by all ages and perfect for sharing
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Crispy bacon crumbles
- Green onions or chives
- Extra shredded cheese
- Sour cream
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant (3–4 minutes).
- Simmer Potatoes: Add diced potatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Blend to Perfection: Use an immersion blender to blend some or all of the soup. Leave chunks for texture, or go smooth for a silky result.
- Add Creaminess: Stir in milk or half-and-half and shredded cheese. Heat gently until melted and creamy.
- Season & Serve: Add salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 285
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
Tips & Variations
- Texture Hack: For a chunkier soup, mash a few potatoes with a fork instead of blending.
- Lighter Version: Use low-fat milk and add a scoop of Greek yogurt for protein-rich creaminess.
- Freezing Tips: Freeze before adding dairy or cheese. Add those fresh when reheating.
- Make Ahead: Stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk.
- Flavor Boost: Add thyme, rosemary, or paprika for an herby twist.
FAQs
Can I use red or sweet potatoes?
Yes! Red potatoes create a creamier texture, and sweet potatoes add a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
How do I thicken the soup more?
Simmer uncovered to reduce or add a spoonful of instant mashed potatoes for quick thickening.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use unsweetened almond or oat milk and skip the cheese, or use dairy-free alternatives.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes—just double-check that your broth and cheese are gluten-free certified.
The Best Creamy Potato Soup
Equipment
- – Large soup pot
- – Immersion blender or regular blender
- Ladle
Ingredients
- – 4 medium potatoes peeled and diced
- – 1 onion diced
- – 2 cloves garlic minced
- – 2 tbsp butter
- – 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- – 1 cup milk or half-and-half
- – ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- – Salt & black pepper to taste
- – Optional toppings: bacon green onions, sour cream, extra cheese
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large pot. Sauté onions and garlic until soft.
- Add potatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer 15–20 minutes.
- Blend part (or all) of the soup for desired texture.
- Stir in milk and cheese. Simmer until creamy.
- Season to taste and serve with toppings of choice.
Notes
– Use red or sweet potatoes for a twist
– Freeze before adding dairy
Conclusion
The Best Creamy Potato Soup isn’t just another bowl of soup—it’s a warm, soothing dish that delivers on flavor, comfort, and satisfaction. It’s versatile enough to fit your lifestyle and rich enough to impress. Make it your own with toppings and tweaks, or follow the basics for a no-fail cozy meal.