How to Make Simple and Creamy Potato Soup

Nothing hits the spot quite like a steaming bowl of potato soup when you need a bowl of pure comfort. It’s creamy, hearty, and packed with rich, cozy flavors. But here’s the best part: while it tastes like pure indulgence, it’s also sneaking in some serious health benefits. They’re loaded with vitamin C to support your immune system and potassium to help keep your blood pressure in check. So yes, this soup is ridiculously satisfying, but it’s also doing your body a favor.

This recipe takes simple, everyday ingredients and transforms them into something extraordinary. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Potato Soup Recipe

1. Creamy Texture: With a combination of milk, cream, and perfectly blended potatoes, this soup achieves a luxuriously creamy texture.
2. Flavorful Base: The bacon adds a smoky depth, while garlic and onions provide an aromatic foundation.
3. Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like cheddar cheese, sour cream, or fresh chives to make it your own.
4. Quick and Easy: With a total preparation time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
5. Comfort in a Bowl: It’s the ultimate comfort food—warm, hearty, and satisfying.

Ingredients 

• • 2 lbs of potatoes, peeled and cut into pieces
  • 7 thin slices of bacon, cut into pieces
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, crushed with a garlic rocker
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, chives, sour cream, and extra bacon

Zulay Says: Use starchy potatoes like Russets for a creamier texture or Yukon Golds for a buttery flavor.

How to Make Creamy Potato Soup

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Grab your large pot and set it over medium heat. Toss in the bacon pieces and let them sizzle, stirring occasionally with a wooden cooking spoon until they turn perfectly crispy. Once they’re golden and irresistible, scoop them out and set them aside—but leave all that flavorful bacon fat in the pot. That’s where the magic happens.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics 

Add butter to the pot with the bacon fat. Stir in the chopped onion and cook over medium heat until the onion is tender, about 5 minutes. Add the crushed garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Base

Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Stir until smooth, creating a roux. This step helps thicken the soup.

Step 4: Add the Potatoes and Liquids

Time to bring in the heartiness! Chop your potatoes on a cutting board using a sharp knife, then add them straight into the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream, and give everything a good stir with a whisk. Add a pinch of salt and a crack of fresh pepper for flavor.

Step 5: Cook the Potatoes

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 10 minutes.

Step 6: Blend for Creaminess

Reduce the heat to low. Using an immersion blender, blend half of the soup to create a smooth puree. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer half of the soup to a blender, then return it to the pot.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Ladle the soup into cozy bowls, then let the toppings shine. Grate some fresh cheddar cheese using a cheese grater, add a dollop of sour cream, sprinkle on some chopped chives, and finish with extra crispy bacon. Grab a spoon and dive in—it’s comfort in a bowl.

Zulay's Expert Tips for the Best Potato Soup

• Get the Right Consistency. If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend less of it. For a completely smooth soup, blend the entire batch.
• Season Gradually. Add salt and pepper in stages to avoid over-seasoning. Taste as you go.
• Make It Ahead. This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for Later. Let the soup cool completely, then freeze in individual portions. Thaw and reheat on the stove for an easy meal.

Topping Ideas to Elevate Your Bowl

1. Classic Cheddar Cheese: A handful of shredded cheddar adds a creamy, tangy kick.
2. Crunchy Bacon Bits: Double up on the bacon for extra flavor and texture.
3. Fresh Chives: A sprinkle of chopped chives adds a fresh, slightly oniony note.
4. Dollop of Sour Cream: For a tangy contrast, add a spoonful of sour cream.
5. Croutons: Crispy croutons add crunch and soak up the creamy broth.
6. Hot Sauce: A dash of hot sauce can bring a subtle heat to your bowl.

Why Potato Soup Should Be a Staple in Your Kitchen

Potato soup isn’t just a meal—it’s a mood. It’s the kind of dish that warms your soul on a cold day, brings people together around the table, and makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a cozy blanket like this tortilla blanket. With its creamy texture, comforting flavors, and endless customization options, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite.

And let’s not forget how easy it is to make. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious bowl of soup ready in no time.

Zulay’s Final Thoughts

There’s a reason potato soup has stood the test of time—it’s versatile, hearty, and deeply satisfying. This recipe brings all those comforting qualities to life while allowing for your own creative twists.

At Zulay Kitchen, we believe in creating moments of #kitchenhappiness with recipes that are as easy as they are enjoyable. We’d love to see how your version turns out! Don’t forget to share your culinary creations and tag us on social media. Together, let’s keep spreading the love for homemade, comforting meals.

Share the Love

Tried this recipe? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a comment below and let us know how it turned out. Did you add your own twist? Share your creative topping ideas—we’re always looking for inspiration!

Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family. Post your soup creations on social media, tag @zulay_kitchen, and use #kitchenhappiness. Let’s spread the joy of cozy, comforting meals together.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your potatoes, fire up the stove, and get ready to create a bowl of pure comfort. This simple and creamy potato soup recipe is about to become your new favorite. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions About This Potato Soup

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Absolutely! Vegetable broth works well and makes this soup vegetarian-friendly (just skip the bacon or use a plant-based alternative).

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or additional milk. For a non-dairy option, use coconut cream or a plant-based creamer.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Yes! Carrots, celery, or even corn would make great additions. Add them with the potatoes for a heartier soup.

How can I make this soup thicker?

To thicken the soup further, mash more of the potatoes or mix a slurry of cornstarch and water, then stir it into the soup while it simmers.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth if it’s too thick.