🥔 Creamy Potato Soup – A Cozy Classic Bursting with Homestyle Flavor

There are few things in the world more comforting than a warm bowl of Potato Soup. It’s the ultimate comfort food—creamy, rich, hearty, and filled with down-to-earth goodness that feels like a big, cozy hug. Whether you’re braving a cold winter day or just craving something soul-soothing and satisfying, this potato soup delivers.

This version is an old-fashioned classic with a touch of richness thanks to bacon, butter, and a splash of cream. It’s loaded with tender red potatoes, crisp bacon, aromatic celery and onions, and finished with a velvety roux that brings everything together into one glorious, spoonable masterpiece.

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🛒 Ingredients – What You’ll Need

This soup features simple, familiar ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Each one plays a special role in building the flavor and body of the soup.

• 2 ½ pounds baby red potatoes, sliced into small bite-sized pieces
• ½ lb. uncooked bacon, finely diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• ¼ bunch celery, diced
• 8 cups milk
• 3 cups water
• 4 chicken bouillon cubes (use 1 cup of hot potato water to dissolve, then combine with 3 cups water)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ¾ cup salted butter
• ¾ cup flour
• ¼ bunch freshly chopped parsley
• 1 cup whipping cream

Garnish Options:

• Shredded cheese
• Fried bacon bits
• Chopped green onions

These toppings add color, flavor, and texture, elevating the soup from great to unforgettable.

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🥣 Directions – How to Make This Creamy Potato Soup

This recipe walks you through traditional soup-making steps, using time-honored techniques to create restaurant-quality results at home.

1. Cook the Potatoes

Start by boiling the baby red potatoes in a large pot filled with water. Boil for 10 minutes, or until they are just tender. Drain and set aside.

Tip: Use the hot potato water to dissolve the bouillon cubes—this enriches the broth while saving waste.

2. Cook the Bacon

In a sauté pan over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Drain the bacon using a slotted spoon and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess grease.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

Using the same bacon pan (to retain all that delicious flavor), add the diced onion and celery. Cook over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes, until the celery is tender and the onions are translucent.

4. Build the Soup Base

Return to your large soup pot. Add the following to the pan:

• 8 cups milk
• 3 cups water
• Dissolved chicken bouillon mixture
• Salt and black pepper

Cook the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, for about 8 minutes, until very hot. Avoid letting it boil—milk can scorch or curdle at high heat.

5. Make the Roux

In a small heavy saucepan, melt ¾ cup of butter over medium-low heat. Add ¾ cup flour, stirring constantly. Cook until the mixture bubbles—this takes 2 to 3 minutes. This roux thickens the soup and adds a slightly nutty flavor.

6. Thicken the Soup

Slowly add the roux to the hot soup while whisking continuously. This will ensure a smooth, creamy texture. Continue stirring for about 4 minutes, until the soup is thick and creamy.

7. Final Touches

Add in:

• Chopped parsley
• The reserved cooked potatoes
• 1 cup whipping cream

Stir gently to combine. Warm everything through, but do not allow it to boil.

8. Serve & Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your choice of:

• Shredded cheese
• Bacon bits
• Chopped green onions
• Or go all out with all three!

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🕒 Cooking Timeline

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30–35 minutes
• Total Time: ~50 minutes
• Servings: 8 generous bowls

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💡 Pro Tips & Variations

• Use Russet potatoes if you prefer a starchier soup with a fluffier texture. Red potatoes hold their shape better and provide a smooth bite.
• For vegetarian: Omit the bacon and use vegetable bouillon. Add smoked paprika for a hint of smoky depth.
• Love cheese? Stir in 1–2 cups of sharp cheddar before adding the cream for a cheesy potato soup twist.
• Want a thicker soup? Mash a portion of the cooked potatoes or use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of cayenne or hot sauce for gentle heat.

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🥗 What to Serve with Potato Soup

Potato Soup is hearty enough to stand alone, but here are some ideas for rounding out your meal:

• Crusty bread or homemade biscuits for dipping
• Green salad with vinaigrette for freshness
• Grilled cheese sandwich for a nostalgic pairing
• Apple slices or fruit salad for a touch of sweetness

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🧊 Storing & Reheating Leftovers

This soup stores well and reheats beautifully!

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freezer: Can be frozen up to 2 months, though cream-based soups may separate slightly
• Reheat: Gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of milk or cream if it’s too thick.

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🧾 Nutrition & Comfort

Potato Soup isn’t just about flavor—it also provides:

• Potassium and fiber from potatoes
• Calcium from milk and cream
• Protein from bacon and cream
• Comfort from every spoonful

It’s a great make-ahead meal, family favorite, and perfect for serving guests with a variety of topping options so everyone can customize their bowl.

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❤️ Final Thoughts

This Creamy Potato Soup recipe captures everything we love about classic comfort food: rich flavor, hearty ingredients, and a creamy texture that feels like indulgence without being overly heavy. It’s filling, flexible, and perfect for cooler days or whenever you need a warm, satisfying meal.

Plus, with simple prep and easy-to-find ingredients, it’s a home cook’s dream. Whether you make it on a weeknight or for a cozy weekend dinner, it’s bound to be a new family favorite.

So grab your biggest soup pot, get those potatoes boiling, and prepare for a meal that hits all the right notes—creamy, comforting, and oh-so delicious.

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