This Potato Soup Recipe is the kind of meal that feels like comfort in its purest form. It is warm, creamy, and deeply familiar, the sort of soup that feels soothing from the very first spoonful. Every time I make it, it reminds me how satisfying simple ingredients can be when they are treated with patience.
Potato soup has always been a quiet favorite in our home, especially on evenings when something gentle and filling feels necessary. It does not rely on bold flavors or complicated steps. Instead, it offers steadiness and warmth in a bowl.
What I love most about this recipe is how adaptable it is. It can be made rich or light, smooth or slightly chunky, depending on preference. No matter how it is finished, it always feels nourishing and comforting.
Over the years, this soup has become one of those dependable recipes I return to again and again. It works for quick lunches, family dinners, and leftovers alike. In our kitchen, potato soup represents simplicity, warmth, and food that always feels right.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This potato soup is creamy, comforting, and deeply satisfying. The potatoes cook down into a soft, velvety base while still offering body and texture. Every spoonful feels warm and familiar.
Another reason this recipe stands out is its simplicity. The ingredients are basic and easy to find, and the steps are straightforward. It does not require special techniques or equipment.
This recipe is also versatile and family-friendly. It can be adjusted to different tastes and served in many ways. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with sides, this Potato Soup Recipe fits naturally into everyday meals.
Serves: 4–6 people
This recipe comfortably serves four to six people, depending on portion size. It works well as a main dish or a starter. Leftovers reheat beautifully and are just as comforting the next day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple pantry and refrigerator staples that come together into a rich and comforting soup. Each ingredient plays a role in building flavor and texture.
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups peeled and diced potatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Butter forms the base and adds richness. Onion and garlic provide gentle depth and aroma.
Potatoes are the heart of the soup. They soften as they cook, creating a creamy texture.
Broth adds flavor and helps the potatoes cook evenly. Salt and pepper keep seasoning simple.
Heavy cream adds smoothness and richness at the end.
Pro Tips
Use starchy potatoes like russet or Yukon gold for the creamiest texture.
Cut potatoes into even pieces so they cook at the same rate.
Cook the onion slowly to avoid browning and bitterness.
Simmer gently rather than boiling to keep the soup smooth.
Blend carefully to control texture.
Add cream at the end to prevent curdling.
Tools You’ll Need
This recipe uses basic kitchen tools and one pot.
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Spoon
- Immersion blender or standard blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
A heavy-bottomed pot helps prevent scorching and allows even cooking.
Substitutions and Variations
Half-and-half can replace heavy cream for a lighter soup.
Milk can be used instead of cream, though the soup will be less rich.
Leeks can replace onions for a softer flavor.
Vegetable broth can replace chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
For added flavor, stir in a small amount of shredded cheese before serving.
Make Ahead Tips
Potato soup is an excellent recipe to make ahead because its texture and flavor hold up beautifully over time. In many cases, it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to settle.
You can prepare the soup fully up to three days in advance. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerating.
If you plan to make it ahead, consider waiting to add the cream until reheating. This helps maintain a smooth texture and prevents separation.
Potatoes can continue to absorb liquid as the soup sits. When reheating, add a small splash of broth or milk to loosen the consistency.
This soup is ideal for batch cooking and meal prep. Portion it into containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Instructions
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Place a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the butter and allow it to melt gently.
The butter should melt fully without browning. This creates a rich but gentle base for the soup.
Step 2: Cook the Onion
Add the chopped onion to the melted butter. Stir to coat evenly.
Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Avoid browning, as this can affect the smooth flavor of the soup.
Step 3: Add the Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the pot. Stir continuously for about 30 seconds.
The garlic should become fragrant but not browned. This keeps the flavor mild and balanced.
Step 4: Add Potatoes and Broth
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir gently to coat them in the onion mixture.
Pour in the broth and stir to combine. The liquid should fully cover the potatoes.
Increase the heat slightly and bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Simmer Until Tender
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.
The potatoes should be very tender when pierced with a fork. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Blend the Soup
Remove the pot from the heat. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth.
If using a standard blender, blend in batches and return the soup to the pot carefully.
You can blend fully smooth or leave a few small chunks for texture.
Step 7: Add Cream and Seasoning
Return the pot to low heat. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, and black pepper.
Stir gently until the soup is smooth and evenly combined. Do not boil after adding the cream.
Step 8: Final Taste Check
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Add salt or pepper gradually.
Allow the soup to warm through for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve potato soup hot for the best flavor and texture.
Pair it with crusty bread or rolls for dipping.
Serve alongside a simple green salad for balance.
Top with cracked black pepper for added warmth.
Enjoy it as a comforting lunch or an easy dinner option.
This soup also works well as a starter for larger meals.
Leftovers and Storage
Potato soup stores very well and often tastes even better after it has had time to rest. The flavors continue to blend, and the texture becomes even smoother.
Allow the soup to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days.
When reheating, warm the soup gently over medium-low heat. Stir often to prevent sticking and to keep the texture creamy.
If the soup thickens too much during storage, add a small splash of broth or milk while reheating. Stir until the desired consistency is reached.
Potato soup can be frozen, but it is best frozen before adding cream. Add the cream after thawing and reheating for the smoothest texture.
Nutrition and Benefits
Potato soup provides comfort and nourishment in a simple, familiar form. It is filling without being overly heavy.
Potatoes offer carbohydrates that provide steady energy. They also contribute fiber and natural body to the soup.
Using broth as the base keeps the soup hydrating and balanced. It allows the potatoes to shine without overwhelming richness.
Adding cream enhances texture and flavor while helping the soup feel satisfying. A small amount goes a long way.
When paired with vegetables or whole-grain bread, potato soup fits easily into a balanced meal.
Recipe FAQ
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can replace the butter with olive oil and use full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
Add dairy-free options slowly and adjust to taste.
Why is my potato soup gummy?
Overblending or using waxy potatoes can cause gumminess.
Use starchy potatoes and blend gently for best texture.
Can I leave the soup chunky?
Yes, you can blend only part of the soup and leave the rest chunky.
This creates a more rustic texture while keeping it creamy.
Can I add vegetables to this soup?
Yes, carrots, celery, or corn can be added during simmering.
Cook them until tender before blending.
How do I thicken potato soup?
Potatoes naturally thicken the soup as they cook.
If needed, simmer uncovered a bit longer or blend more thoroughly.
Is this soup good for meal prep?
Yes, it works very well for meal prep.
Store portions in containers and reheat gently as needed.
Can I season it differently?
Yes, herbs like thyme or chives work well.
Add seasonings gradually to keep the flavor balanced.
A Comforting Bowl That Always Feels Right
This Potato Soup Recipe is a reminder that simple ingredients can create something deeply comforting.
With its creamy texture, gentle flavor, and warm familiarity, it feels soothing every time it is served.
Whether enjoyed fresh or reheated on a quiet day, this soup remains a dependable recipe that always feels like home.
