Creamy Potato Soup

Name: Creamy Potato Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Chives or parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Hearty & Comforting

I love making creamy potato soup, especially when the weather turns chilly. There's something truly comforting about the combination of tender potatoes, savory onions, and rich cream. Each spoonful warms you up and satisfies your cravings. I often experiment with adding different herbs or spices to enhance the flavor. Making this soup from scratch is not only satisfying but also lets me control every ingredient, ensuring it is just right for my family's taste. Let's dive into this cozy bowl of deliciousness!

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:25:35.914Z

When I first made creamy potato soup, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious it turned out. Sautéing the onions until they're caramelized really brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the flavor of the entire dish. I also discovered that using a mix of russet and Yukon gold potatoes creates a wonderful texture; the russets break down nicely to thicken the soup while the Yukon gold potatoes hold their shape.

Another trick I've learned is to blend part of the soup for that velvety consistency that coats the spoon perfectly. It's easy to do: just scoop some out, puree it in a blender, and mix it back in. This not only makes the soup creamy but also gives an incredible depth of flavor. I can't wait for you to try this recipe!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that is both comforting and indulgent
Versatile recipe that's easy to customize with your favorite herbs
Perfect for chilly days or as a cozy family meal

Mastering the Texture

Achieving the perfect creamy texture in your potato soup starts with the right potatoes. I recommend using starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds, as they break down beautifully during cooking and create a velvety base. When you sauté the onions until they are translucent, you build a flavor foundation that enhances the overall depth of the soup. Watch for a slight golden color on the edges of the onions to know they’re perfectly caramelized and ready for the next step.

When blending the soup, an immersion blender is my go-to tool since it allows for easy pureeing without transferring hot soup to a blender, which can be messy. Blend until the soup is glossy and smooth, as this ensures that every spoonful has a creamy consistency. If you prefer some texture, reserve a cup of unblended potato pieces before mixing. This adds heartiness and makes each bite satisfying.

Flavor Enhancements

While the basic creamy potato soup is delightful on its own, you have plenty of opportunities to elevate the flavor. Adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the simmering process infuses subtle earthy notes into the soup. I often experiment with a dash of smoked paprika for a gentle smokiness that complements the creaminess beautifully. If you're looking for more heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes sprinkled in can elevate the flavor profile, especially in colder months.

Don’t forget about finishing touches! A drizzle of olive oil or a dollop of sour cream can add richness and a contrasting tang. For a luxurious twist, consider topping with crispy bacon pieces or sautéed mushrooms to introduce a deeper umami flavor. The incorporation of garnishes not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the overall taste experience.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delightful creamy potato soup:

Ingredients

4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Chives or parsley for garnish

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your creamy potato soup:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Cook the Potatoes

Add the diced potatoes to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Blend and Add Cream

Using an immersion blender, carefully puree the soup until it's smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer part of the soup to a blender, puree until smooth, and return it to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat gently, but do not boil.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chives or parsley. Enjoy your creamy potato soup warm!

Enjoy your delightful creamy potato soup that will surely warm your heart!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or some crispy bacon bits as a topping.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This creamy potato soup is an excellent candidate for make-ahead meals. Prepare the soup up to the blending step and refrigerate it for up to three days. When you're ready to serve it, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking. Adding a splash of broth or cream can help return the soup to its ideal creamy consistency after refrigeration.

If you want to extend the life of your soup, consider freezing it in airtight containers for up to three months. Just make sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen. When reheating frozen soup, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're looking to serve a larger gathering, scaling up this recipe is straightforward. For every additional serving, increase the amount of potatoes and broth proportionally. Ensure to keep the ratio of onions and cream consistent for balanced flavor throughout. Just remember that larger batches may require a longer simmering time for the potatoes to fully cook through, so keep an eye on them and check for doneness with a fork.

Alternatively, if you're cooking for one or two, this recipe is easily halved. Just use two potatoes and adjust the other ingredients accordingly. I find that making a smaller batch ensures freshness and the best flavor, especially since creamy soups don't often store as well over time compared to other types. No matter how you scale it, the comforting nature of this soup remains unchanged.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the soup will be less creamy. If you want to maintain some creaminess, you can use half-and-half or add a bit of cornstarch slurry to thicken it.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just ensure it's cooled completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit more liquid if necessary.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add carrots, leeks, or celery for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the onions before adding the potatoes.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftover creamy potato soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently before serving.