There’s something truly special about a warm bowl of Potato Soup on a chilly day. The luscious texture is both creamy and comforting, while the aroma dances through the air, pulling everyone in the kitchen. Each spoonful brings a delightful blend of savory flavors with bursts of smoky bacon and rich cheddar cheese. I often find myself whipping up this gorgeous soup when the weather turns crisp—it’s a big hug in a bowl that makes cozy evenings feel even more inviting.
What I love most is that this Potato Soup comes together surprisingly fast; you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends, and the best part? Leftovers taste even better the next day, making for a truly satisfying lunch.
WHY I LOVE POTATO SOUP
This Potato Soup is a true winner at my table! It’s incredibly easy and undeniably delicious, striking the perfect balance between indulgent and wholesome. The creamy base, combined with those little bits of crispy bacon, hits that sweet spot every time. Plus, it’s so versatile—I often throw in whatever veggies I have on hand, making it a delightful canvas for creativity!
POTATO SOUP INGREDIENTS
The magic of this Potato Soup truly lies in the harmony of its simple yet satisfying ingredients. Don’t worry about exact measurements just yet; those are all in the recipe card for you!
Essential Components
- 4 LARGE POTATOES (PEELED AND CUBED): These little gems are the star of the show, bringing a hearty, creamy texture that forms the base of this dish.
- ½ TSP SALT: A touch of salt enhances the natural flavors, helping to make everything pop!
- 8 OZ BACON (BITE-SIZED PIECES): Crispy bacon adds a smoky depth and satisfies that craving for salty goodness.
- 4 TBSP UNSALTED BUTTER: This rich butter is essential for creating a luxurious, velvety base for the soup.
- ½ MED ONION (FINELY CHOPPED): Sweet and aromatic, the onion builds a wonderful flavor foundation that sets the stage for the rest.
- 2 GARLIC CLOVES (MINCED): Fresh garlic adds warmth and a fragrant aroma that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
- ¼ CUP ALL-PURPOSE FLOUR (OR USE GLUTEN FREE 1:1 FLOUR): This helps thicken the soup, giving it that desired creamy consistency.
- 2 ½ CUPS WHOLE MILK: Creamy whole milk envelops the potatoes, making each bite feel indulgent and satisfying.
- 2 ½ CUPS CHICKEN BROTH (OR VEGETABLE BROTH): Broth brings depth and richness; it’s the liquid gold of this recipe!
- 1 CUP MILD OR SHARP CHEDDAR CHEESE (SHREDDED): Cheese makes everything better! Whether you go mild or sharp, it adds that irresistible cheesy note.
- ¾ CUP SOUR CREAM: The sour cream offers a delightful tang that balances out the rich soup.
- 1 TSP SALT (OR TO TASTE): More flavor is always welcome—adjust to suit your palate!
- ¼ TSP PEPPER (OR TO TASTE): A sprinkle of pepper adds just the right touch of spice.
- GREEN ONIONS (TO SERVE): Fresh green onions make for a vibrant and crunchy garnish that brightens each bowl.
SUBSTITUTIONS AND TIPS
Need a swap? If you find yourself short on an ingredient, here are a few easy alternatives. For the bacon, turkey bacon or even some sautéed mushrooms can provide that smoky vibe. If you’re out of whole milk, half-and-half or even light cream works well too, though it won’t be quite as rich.
Want to switch things up? Feel free to toss in some diced vegetables like carrots or celery; they’ll add color and nutrition! As for technique, make sure your potatoes are cut into uniform cubes for even cooking—this step is key!
KITCHEN TOOLS YOU’LL NEED
- Stockpot (for cooking potatoes)
- Dutch oven (for sautéing and simmering)
- Sharp knife (for chopping)
- Cutting board
- Whisk (for mixing)
- Serving bowls (for that cozy presentation)
HOW TO MAKE POTATO SOUP
Let’s dive into creating this creamy Potato Soup. I’ve broken down the process into simple steps, so follow along, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time! We’re aiming for a comforting bowl of savory goodness that invites conversation and smiles.
Start with the Potatoes
First, place sliced potatoes into a stockpot and cover them completely with about an inch of water. Season with ½ tsp salt and cook for 8-10 minutes or until the potatoes pierce easily with a knife. Once they are tender, drain them and set aside.
Crisp the Bacon
Next, heat your Dutch oven over medium heat and toss in the bacon. Sauté until it’s crispy, then transfer it to a plate but be sure to reserve about 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease in the pot. This little bit of flavor will take the soup over the top!
Sauté the Aromatics
Now, add 4 tbsp butter to the reserved bacon grease, then toss in the finely chopped onion. Sauté until the onion is tender and translucent—this should take about 3-5 minutes. Finally, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant—oh, you’ll know it’s time when the aroma wafts through the air!
Create the Creamy Base
Once the onions are looking lovely, quickly whisk in the ¼ cup flour. This will help create that creamy texture we’re aiming for. Gradually add in 2 ½ cups milk and 2 ½ cups broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a soft boil, stirring as it thickens beautifully.
Combine Everything
Now it’s time to stir in the drained potatoes! Season the soup with 1 tsp salt and ¼ tsp pepper, mixing everything thoroughly. Oh, the smell is incredible at this point!
Make it Creamy and Cheesy
Next, stir in ¾ cup sour cream and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, along with half of your crispy bacon (reserving the rest for serving). Bring the soup to just a boil, then remove it from the heat. You want that creamy goodness to meld together perfectly!
HOW TO STORE POTATO SOUP
Leftover Potato Soup is just as rich and delightful as when you first made it. For room temperature storage, it can sit out for about 2 hours. In the refrigerator, store it in an airtight container, and it should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, pack it airtight and store it for 2-3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. For reheating, a gentle stovetop method works best to maintain that creamy consistency!
TIPS FOR SUCCESS
- Use fresh potatoes for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t rush the sautéing of the onions—caramelization adds a sweetness that’s crucial!
- Whisk constantly when adding milk and broth to prevent lumps.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving; everyone’s palate is different.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Serve with crusty bread or warm baguette slices for dipping.
- Pair with a vibrant green salad to balance the richness.
- Garnish with the reserved crispy bacon and sliced green onions for an extra pop of flavor.
- A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can elevate the presentation!
- Enjoy with a glass of crisp white wine like Chardonnay for a lovely touch.
Dive into this warm, hearty Potato Soup—it’s sure to become a favorite in your home as it is in mine! Happy cooking!
