Creamy Potato Soup is a rich, hearty, and comforting dish that is perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave something warm and satisfying. This soup is made with simple ingredients but delivers a velvety texture and deep flavors that make it an all-time favorite. The combination of tender potatoes, flavorful seasonings, and creamy consistency creates a dish that is both nourishing and indulgent. Whether enjoyed as a starter or a main course, this soup is sure to delight your taste buds and bring warmth to your table.
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- ½ cup chopped green onions or chives (for garnish)
- 4 slices crispy bacon, crumbled (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients – Wash, peel, and dice the potatoes into small cubes. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and set them aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics – In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant. This step enhances the depth of flavor in the soup.
- Make the Roux – Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring continuously. Cook for about a minute to remove the raw flour taste and help thicken the soup.
- Add the Broth and Potatoes – Gradually pour in the vegetable or chicken broth while stirring. Add the diced potatoes, salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes become tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Blend for a Creamy Texture – Use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup, depending on your preferred consistency. If you prefer a chunkier texture, mash some of the potatoes with a spoon instead of blending completely.
- Incorporate the Cream and Cheese – Stir in the heavy cream (or milk) and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and combines smoothly into the soup, giving it a rich and creamy consistency.
- Adjust the Seasoning – Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference.
- Serve and Garnish – Ladle the creamy potato soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped green onions or chives and crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and texture. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.