Best Homemade Potato Soup

This Best Homemade Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor. With crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and a rich, cheesy broth, it’s a bowl of pure warmth and goodness. Perfect for chilly days or whenever you’re craving something cozy, this soup is easy to make and endlessly customizable with your favorite toppings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Creamy & Comforting: The combination of heavy cream, cheese, and mashed potatoes creates a luxuriously smooth texture.
• Packed with Flavor: Bacon, garlic, and cheddar cheese elevate the humble potato into a gourmet dish.
• Customizable: Top with your favorite garnishes like green onions, sour cream, or extra cheese for added flair.

 Ingredients (Serves 6–8):

• 6 slices of bacon , diced 🥓
• 4 large russet potatoes , peeled and diced 🥔
• 1 small onion , diced 🧅
• 3 cloves garlic , minced 🧄
• 3 cups chicken broth 🥣
• 1 cup heavy cream 🥛
• 1 cup whole milk 🥛
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 🧀
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour 🌾
• Salt and pepper , to taste 🧂
• Optional garnishes : Sliced green onions, extra shredded cheese, sour cream 🫑🧀

 Directions:

Step 1: Cook the Bacon 🔥

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5–7 minutes .
2. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel to drain. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pot for added flavor.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic 🍲

1. Add the diced onion to the pot with the bacon grease. Sauté until soft and translucent, about 4–5 minutes .
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes , until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth 🥔

1. Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth .
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes , or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 4: Make the Cream Mixture 🥛

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream , whole milk , and flour until smooth.
2. Pour this mixture into the pot, stirring well to combine. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5–7 minutes , stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Mash Potatoes for Texture ✋

1. Use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot. This creates a creamier texture while leaving some chunks for added texture.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Seasoning 🧀

1. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
2. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 7: Serve with Toppings 🍴

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the reserved crispy bacon , sliced green onions , extra shredded cheese , or a dollop of sour cream .

💡 Tips for Success:

• Potato Choice: Russet potatoes are ideal because they break down easily and create a creamy base. Yukon Gold potatoes are a great alternative for a buttery flavor.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days . Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the consistency if needed.
• Make It Healthier: Substitute half-and-half or evaporated milk for heavy cream to reduce the fat content without sacrificing creaminess.

⏰ Time Breakdown:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

📊 Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Makes 8):

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 20g

This Best Homemade Potato Soup is the epitome of comfort food—rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or alongside a sandwich or salad, it’s sure to warm your soul and satisfy your cravings. Top it with crispy bacon, fresh green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch of indulgence. Dive into this hearty bowl of goodness—it’s pure comfort in every bite!