There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a big bowl of creamy potato soup on a chilly day. With its velvety texture, rich flavor, and hearty potatoes, this soup is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re seeking something to warm you up after a long day or a delicious meal to share with family and friends, this creamy potato soup recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 1 cup milk (whole milk or half-and-half works best for creaminess)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for garnish)
• 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled (optional, for topping)
• Fresh chives or green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant. This helps build the soup’s base and infuses it with aromatic flavors.

Step 2: Add Potatoes and Broth Add the diced potatoes to the pot, followed by the chicken broth (or vegetable broth). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the potatoes cook for 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Step 3: Mash the Potatoes Once the potatoes are cooked, use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to mash the potatoes in the soup. For a chunky soup, mash only part of the potatoes, leaving some in larger pieces. For a smoother soup, mash the entire batch. If you prefer an ultra-smooth texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency.

Step 4: Add Dairy and Seasonings Stir in the milk, heavy cream, thyme, and smoked paprika (if using). Allow the soup to simmer on low heat for another 5-10 minutes, giving it time to thicken and allow the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Add Cheese Once the soup has thickened, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely and the soup becomes rich and creamy. This will add an extra layer of flavor and creaminess to your soup.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve Ladle the soup into bowls and top with additional shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped chives or green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips for the Perfect Creamy Potato Soup:

1. Use Russet Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for creamy potato soup because they break down and become soft, giving the soup its smooth texture.
2. Customize the Dairy: For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half. For an even richer soup, go for more cream or add a dollop of sour cream for tang.
3. Add Vegetables: You can easily boost the nutrition of this soup by adding vegetables like carrots, celery, or leeks along with the onions. Just sauté them with the onions before adding the potatoes.
4. Make It Vegan: To make this soup vegan, use vegetable broth, coconut milk or almond milk, and skip the cheese and bacon for a plant-based alternative.
5. Freeze Leftovers: This soup freezes well! If you have leftovers, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Why Creamy Potato Soup is the Ultimate Comfort Food:

Creamy potato soup is a dish that’s been loved for generations, and it’s easy to see why. With its rich, creamy texture and simple ingredients, it’s the definition of comfort food. Potatoes are a hearty, satisfying base, and when combined with the richness of butter, cream, and cheese, they create a soup that’s perfect for any time of year.

Whether you’re serving it as a quick lunch, a warming dinner, or as a side dish to your favorite main course, this creamy potato soup will never disappoint. It’s filling, flavorful, and made with love—exactly what you need on a cold day or whenever you want a cozy, heartwarming meal.

Try this recipe today and see for yourself why creamy potato soup is a timeless favorite that always hits the spot!