Best Homemade Potato Soup

Why You’ll Love Best Homemade Potato Soup Recipe

This potato soup is the definition of comfort food. It’s thick, creamy, and loaded with wholesome ingredients. The savory flavor from the bacon blends beautifully with the smooth potatoes and vegetables, while the creamy base makes every bite rich and satisfying. It’s also incredibly flexible — you can tweak the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 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 of vegetable broth or chicken broth

• 1 cup milk

• ½ cup heavy cream

• 1 tsp minced parsley

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 3 tbsp flour (corn starch can be substituted)

• 1 cup finely grated cheese of your choice

Directions

1. In a large soup pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside. Pour off most of the bacon fat but leave a bit for flavor.

2. In the same pot, sauté the onion, celery, and carrot for about 2 minutes.

3. Add the diced potatoes, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you like.

4. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Cook for around 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are just tender.

5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and milk. Slowly pour this into the soup while stirring continuously. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.

6. Carefully transfer about ¼ to ½ of the soup to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.

7. Slowly return the blended soup to the pot, stirring well to combine.

8. Stir in most of the crumbled bacon, reserving some for garnish.

9. Serve hot, garnished with parsley, bacon bits, and a sprinkle of cheese.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth. Add smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor.

• Cheesy potato soup: Stir in extra shredded cheese for a richer taste.

• Spicy kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.

• Loaded potato style: Garnish with sour cream, green onions, and extra cheese.

• Creamier texture: Add more heavy cream or blend a larger portion of the soup.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through. If the soup thickens in the fridge, add a splash of broth or milk when reheating.

FAQs

What kind of potatoes are best for potato soup?

Russet potatoes work best because they break down and help thicken the soup. Yukon Golds are another good option for a slightly creamier texture.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze potato soup, but keep in mind that the texture may change slightly. Allow it to cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

How do I thicken the soup without flour?

You can use cornstarch, instant mashed potatoes, or simply blend a larger portion of the soup to create a thicker consistency.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes. Use plant-based milk and cream substitutes like oat milk or coconut milk, and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

What type of cheese is best for this soup?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby are great options. Choose one that melts smoothly for the best texture.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Sauté the bacon and veggies first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Add milk and cream near the end of the cooking time.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure all other ingredients are labeled gluten-free.

Is it possible to add protein to this soup?

Yes, diced cooked chicken or leftover ham makes a great addition if you’re looking to add more protein.

What herbs go well with potato soup?

Parsley, thyme, chives, and dill all pair nicely. Feel free to experiment to match your taste.

How can I make the soup smoother?

Blend a larger portion of the soup or use an immersion blender directly in the pot until you reach your desired consistency.

Conclusion

This Best Homemade Potato Soup is a cozy, delicious dish that brings comfort and satisfaction with every spoonful. It’s simple to make, full of rich flavor, and endlessly adaptable to suit your preferences. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something warm and filling, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.