Creamy Potato Soup

Name: Creamy Potato Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped chives for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Everyday Cozy Meals

I love making creamy potato soup during the colder months. The rich flavors and comforting texture not only warm me up but also bring back fond memories of family dinners. This recipe has been passed down through generations, and I tweak it just a little to make it my own. The combination of garlic, thyme, and a splash of cream creates a lush soup that is perfect for lunch or a cozy dinner. I can’t wait to share this delightful dish with you!

Created by

Charity Bowen

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:02:36.101Z

Every time I make creamy potato soup, I am reminded of my childhood. My grandmother would stir the pot, filling the kitchen with an irresistible aroma of garlic and herbs. It was our favorite family comfort food, and I’ve continued to cherish it in my own cooking. I encourage you to experiment with your favorite herbs to make it uniquely yours!

To enhance the soup’s flavor, I recommend simmering the potatoes just right to perfectly capture their taste. If you want an extra layer of richness, consider adding bacon bits or cheese as a topping when serving. Trust me, it takes the soup to another level!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Silky smooth texture that warms the soul
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Versatile – customize with your favorite toppings

Mastering the Creamy Texture

To achieve that signature creamy texture, the blending process is crucial. Using an immersion blender allows you to control the consistency, ensuring a silky smooth finish. If you're opting for a countertop blender, let the soup cool slightly before transferring it to avoid splattering hot liquid. Blend in batches and avoid overfilling your blender to prevent spills. For a chunkier variation, blend only half of the soup and mix it back with the unblended portion for delightful contrast.

Choosing the right potatoes is essential for the ideal creamy potato soup. Russet potatoes are favored for their starchy content, giving the soup a naturally thickened quality. Alternatively, Yukon Gold potatoes lend a buttery flavor; however, they may create a slightly denser soup. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute a portion of the potatoes with cauliflower, which will also blend beautifully while boosting the soup's nutritional profile.

Customizing Your Soup

This creamy potato soup serves as a perfect canvas for various toppings that can elevate its flavor and presentation. For a crunchy texture, consider adding crispy bacon bits, croutons, or roasted chickpeas. Fresh herbs such as parsley or dill can brighten the soup and provide a pop of color. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add depth and a touch of gourmet sophistication to each bowl.

For those seeking a little heat, feel free to incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce before serving. You can also transform this dish into a loaded potato soup by adding shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions. By mixing in cooked broccoli or spinach, you not only introduce new flavors but also enhance the soup's nutritional value, making it a heartier meal option.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful creamy potato soup:

Ingredients

4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped chives for garnish (optional)

Once you have everything ready, the magic can begin!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy potato soup:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Cook the Potatoes

Add the diced potatoes to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Blend the Soup

Once the potatoes are tender, use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a countertop blender in batches. Return the blended soup to the pot.

Add Cream and Season

Stir in the cream, and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Heat it gently until warmed through, but do not let it boil. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve

Ladle the creamy potato soup into bowls and garnish with chopped chives, if desired. Enjoy your comforting bowl of happiness!

Serve hot and savor every spoonful!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding crispy bacon bits on top when serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This creamy potato soup can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights. Prepare it in advance, allow it to cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, heat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of additional vegetable broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency after refrigeration.

If you want to enjoy the soup for a more extended period, consider freezing it. Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers and label them with dates. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove, stirring in a little extra cream or water for desired consistency.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your potato soup ends up too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a bit more vegetable broth or cream to loosen it up to your desired consistency. Keep the heat on low as you stir to ensure even integration without overheating, which could change its texture. On the other hand, if your soup is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.

A common pitfall is under-seasoning. Ensure that you taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. A little extra salt and freshly cracked pepper can highlight the flavors of the potatoes and aromatics. If it tastes flat, a splash of lemon juice can provide a welcome brightness and enhance the overall flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes! Substitute the cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative, and use vegetable broth.

→ How can I thicken the soup without cream?

You can use a potato masher to mash some of the cooked potatoes in the pot, which will naturally thicken the soup.

→ Can I freeze leftover soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ What toppings go well with creamy potato soup?

You can top it with croutons, shredded cheese, chives, or even a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.