When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a warm, hearty bowl of Potato Soup. With its velvety texture, rich flavor, and simple ingredients, this soup is a favorite for cozy nights, family dinners, and even meal prepping for the week. This recipe gives you everything you need to make the best potato soup ever—creamy, loaded with flavor, and topped with delicious garnishes that make each spoonful irresistible. Keep reading for a step-by-step guide, substitutions, variations, and tips to make this the best potato soup you’ve ever had!

What is Potato Soup?
Potato soup is a thick and creamy soup made with potatoes as the primary ingredient, along with other vegetables like onions, garlic, and sometimes carrots or celery. The potatoes are usually cooked until tender and then mashed or blended to create a smooth, velvety texture. The soup is often enriched with cream or milk and topped with various garnishes such as crispy bacon, shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions. It's a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for cold days or when you’re craving something warm and filling.
Ingredients List for the Best Potato Soup
To make the best potato soup, you’ll need these essential ingredients:
Base Ingredients:
- Potatoes: 6-8 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes.
- Bacon: 6-8 slices of thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy.
- Onion: 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped.
- Garlic: 3 cloves of garlic, minced.
- Carrots (optional): 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced.
- Celery (optional): 2 ribs of celery, chopped.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth: 5 cups of low-sodium broth.
- Butter: 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
- Flour: 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour (for thickening).
- Milk: 2 cups of whole milk or half-and-half for extra creaminess.
- Heavy Cream: ½ cup for added richness.
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded.
- Sour Cream: ½ cup for creaminess and tang.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Paprika (optional): ½ teaspoon for a hint of smokiness.
Garnish Ideas:
- Chopped Green Onions or Chives: Adds a fresh, herby flavor.
- Crispy Bacon: A crunchy, salty topping.
- Extra Shredded Cheese: For more cheesy goodness.
- Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and a bit of tang.
- Croutons or Toasted Bread: For a crispy texture contrast.
Substitutions and Variations
Potato soup is incredibly versatile and can be easily customized to fit dietary preferences or available ingredients. Here are some common substitutions and variations:
Dairy-Free Option:
- Replace the milk, cream, and sour cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk. Use vegan butter or olive oil instead of regular butter, and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Gluten-Free Version:
- Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or use cornstarch to thicken the soup. Alternatively, you can mash some of the potatoes to naturally thicken the soup.
Vegetarian Variation:
- Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly soup. Add extra vegetables like leeks, spinach, or corn for added flavor and nutrition.
Cheesy Version:
- For an extra cheesy potato soup, stir in more shredded cheddar, or mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for additional depth of flavor.
Spicy Potato Soup:
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a spicy kick. You can also top the soup with jalapeño slices for extra heat.
Loaded Baked Potato Soup:
- Take inspiration from a classic baked potato by adding all the toppings you’d normally use—extra cheese, sour cream, green onions, and bacon—right into the soup. You can even stir in cooked sausage or ham for an even heartier meal.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make the best potato soup. The total time to cook is about 40-50 minutes, making it a quick and easy recipe for any day of the week.
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by cooking the bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease in the pot, as this will add flavor to the soup. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces for garnish.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot with the bacon grease, add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots (if using). Sauté over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Roux
Add the butter to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Once melted, sprinkle the flour over the mixture, stirring constantly to create a roux. Let the roux cook for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, but don’t let it brown.
Step 4: Add Potatoes and Broth
Next, add the diced potatoes to the pot, followed by the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 5: Blend or Mash the Soup
After the potatoes are cooked, you can blend or mash the soup depending on the texture you prefer. For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend the mixture directly in the pot. If you prefer a chunkier texture, use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes while leaving others intact.
Step 6: Add Milk, Cream, and Cheese
Once the soup is blended or mashed to your liking, stir in the milk, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring over low heat until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with crispy bacon, extra shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
How to Cook the Best Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Cook the bacon: Crisp the bacon in a large pot, then reserve the grease.
- Sauté the veggies: Sauté onions, garlic, celery, and carrots in the bacon grease.
- Make the roux: Stir in butter and flour to thicken the soup.
- Add potatoes and broth: Add diced potatoes and broth, then simmer until tender.
- Blend or mash: Blend for a smooth soup or mash for a chunkier texture.
- Add dairy and cheese: Stir in milk, cream, and cheese for a rich finish.
- Garnish and serve: Top with bacon, cheese, sour cream, and green onions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the potatoes: Don’t let the potatoes cook for too long, or they’ll become mushy. Keep an eye on them and remove the soup from heat as soon as they’re fork-tender.
- Skipping the roux: The roux is crucial for thickening the soup and giving it a smooth, creamy texture. Don’t skip this step, as it helps the soup develop body and richness.
- Using pre-shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly. For the best results, shred your cheese fresh from the block.
- Not blending or mashing: The texture of potato soup is key to its creamy, hearty appeal. Be sure to mash or blend at least part of the soup for the best consistency.
Serving and Presentation Tips
For the ultimate potato soup experience, presentation and toppings are key. Here are some tips to make your soup look and taste amazing:
Toppings:
- Crispy Bacon: Add crumbled bacon on top for a salty, crunchy contrast.
- Cheddar Cheese: A sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar makes every bite cheesy and delicious.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top adds a tangy, creamy element.
- Green Onions or Chives: These provide a pop of color and freshness.
- Croutons: For a little crunch, add homemade croutons or crispy bread cubes.
Sides:
- Serve the soup with warm, crusty bread, garlic bread, or a side of crackers for dipping.
- Pair it with a fresh green salad to balance out the richness of the soup.
How to Serve the Best Potato Soup
Serve Potato Soup in large, deep bowls and top with your choice of garnishes just before serving. It’s perfect as a main course, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides, like sandwiches, salads, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it as an
appetizer before a larger meal.
Presentation Ideas for Potato Soup
- Bread Bowls: Hollow out small sourdough or rustic loaves to create edible bread bowls for serving the soup.
- Cheese Swirls: Add extra grated cheese on top and broil it for a minute or two to get a melty, golden-brown finish.
- Soup in a Mug: Serve the soup in large mugs for a cozy, casual presentation perfect for sipping on a cold night.
Potato Soup Recipe Tips
- Make it ahead: Potato soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat gently on the stove.
- Freeze it: This soup freezes well, but leave out the milk and cream before freezing. When reheating, stir in the dairy for a fresh, creamy consistency.
- Adjust thickness: If your soup is too thick, add more broth or milk to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to thicken.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Potato Soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! To make potato soup in a slow cooker, add all the ingredients except the milk, cream, and cheese to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Blend or mash the soup, then stir in the milk, cream, and cheese just before serving.
How do I thicken Potato Soup?
If the soup is too thin, you can thicken it by mashing more potatoes, blending part of the soup, or adding a slurry made of 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water. Stir the slurry into the soup and let it simmer until thickened.
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, while russet potatoes are classic for potato soup, you can also use Yukon gold potatoes for a creamier texture. Red potatoes will hold their shape better, which is ideal if you prefer a chunkier soup.
How long does Potato Soup last in the fridge?
Potato soup can last in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra broth or milk if needed.
Conclusion
The best Potato Soup is creamy, comforting, and full of rich flavors that are sure to satisfy. Whether you enjoy it as a simple, straightforward dish or load it up with all the toppings, this recipe is easy to make and endlessly customizable. With just a few simple ingredients and some careful cooking, you can create a hearty, delicious bowl of potato soup that will warm you up and keep you coming back for more. Enjoy!
PrintThe Best Potato Soup Recipe
This is truly the Best Potato Soup recipe you'll ever try! Creamy, rich, and loaded with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese, this soup is the ultimate comfort food. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, it's perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. The combination of cream, butter, and potatoes creates a velvety base, while the toppings add the perfect touch of texture and taste. Serve with crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 5 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 4 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until soft.
- Add diced potatoes and chicken broth, bringing to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- In a small bowl, whisk flour into milk until smooth. Slowly stir into the soup, followed by heavy cream.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and half of the crumbled bacon. Cook until the cheese melts and the soup thickens.
- Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with remaining bacon, green onions, and additional cheese.
Notes
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before blending.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the cream.
- Adjust the seasoning and toppings based on personal preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 900mg
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