Best Homemade Potato Soup Recipe
This creamy and hearty homemade potato soup is perfect for warming up on chilly days. Packed with tender vegetables, crispy bacon, and a rich, cheesy broth, it’s a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 6 medium Russet potatoes, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 8 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp minced parsley (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tbsp flour (or cornstarch as a substitute)
- 1 cup finely grated cheese of your choice (cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack recommended)
Instructions
1. Cook the Bacon:
- In a large soup pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
- Remove the bacon from the pot and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Pour off most of the bacon fat, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons in the pot for added flavor.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- Return the pot to medium heat and add the diced onion, celery, and carrots.
- Stir and cook for about 2 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Add Potatoes and Seasonings:
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot, along with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings (such as thyme or paprika).
- Stir to combine.
4. Simmer the Soup:
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the soup to a low boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender but not falling apart.
5. Thicken the Soup:
- In a small bowl, whisk the flour (or cornstarch) with the milk until smooth.
- Gradually add the mixture to the soup, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken.
6. Add Cream and Cheese:
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated cheese until melted and incorporated.
- Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Garnish and Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon, additional cheese, parsley, or croutons as desired.
Pro Tips for the Best Potato Soup
- For extra flavor: Use smoked bacon and sharp cheddar cheese.
- For a smoother texture: Blend half of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the cream.
- For added toppings: Try sour cream, green onions, or even a dash of hot sauce for extra kick.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if the soup thickens too much.
FAQs for Best Homemade Potato Soup
1. Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a creamier texture. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they may not break down as well in the soup.
2. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the smoky flavor of bacon.
3. How can I make the soup thicker?
If the soup isn’t thick enough, you can:
- Mix 1-2 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the soup.
- Blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender.
4. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Use a plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and replace heavy cream with coconut cream. For the cheese, opt for a dairy-free alternative.
5. Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Popular additions include corn, peas, or even diced zucchini. These can be added during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
6. How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?
To avoid clumping, shred the cheese yourself (pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents) and add it gradually while stirring the soup over low heat.
7. Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup stores well. Let it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing. Reheat slowly, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy texture.
8. What can I serve with potato soup?
Serve potato soup with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a side salad. It also pairs well with grilled cheese or biscuits.
9. How can I make the soup spicier?
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce to the soup.
10. Can I use leftover mashed potatoes instead of diced potatoes?
Yes, leftover mashed potatoes can be stirred in to create a thicker soup. Just reduce the amount of broth slightly to maintain the desired consistency.
Let me know if you’d like more tips or ideas!
Enjoy this comforting, rich, and flavorful potato soup with your favorite crusty bread or crackers!