Potato soup is one of those comforting dishes that seems to wrap you up like a warm, cozy blanket. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you just need something hearty and satisfying, potato soup never disappoints. It’s creamy, savory, and versatile enough to be served as a light meal or as a side dish. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s made from simple ingredients, yet it packs a punch in flavor, and the best part is that it’s quick to prepare right on your stovetop.
Now, if you’ve never tried making potato soup from scratch, don’t worry! This recipe is as easy as it gets. No complicated techniques, just a bunch of delicious ingredients simmered together to create the perfect bowl of warmth. Plus, it’s great for meal prep and leftovers-so you get to enjoy it for days.
So, let’s dive in and get your kitchen smelling like heaven with this easy stovetop potato soup recipe!
Easy Potato Soup Stovetop Recipe
This recipe takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish and delivers a creamy, flavorful potato soup that’s made entirely on the stovetop. It’s the kind of soup you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients Needed
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (optional but highly recommended)
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Start by peeling and dicing your potatoes into bite-sized cubes. You can use russet potatoes for that classic creamy texture, but feel free to use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a slightly different flavor and texture.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Simmer the Potatoes: Pour in the chicken (or vegetable) broth, add the diced potatoes, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Blend for Creaminess: Once the potatoes are tender, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot. You don’t have to blend it all the way; leaving some chunks of potatoes gives the soup texture and body. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer half of the soup to a regular blender, blend it until smooth, and then return it to the pot.
- Add Cream & Seasoning: Stir in the heavy cream (or milk), and season with salt, pepper, and thyme (if using). Continue to heat the soup until it’s hot but not boiling.
- Add Cheese and Bacon: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cooked bacon until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
- Serve & Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls, and top with extra shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, and a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley.
Ingredient Insights
- Russet Potatoes: These starchy potatoes break down nicely when cooked, giving the soup that smooth and creamy texture. They’re the go-to for mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, and, of course, potato soup.
- Butter & Heavy Cream: The butter adds richness, while the heavy cream gives the soup its signature creamy, velvety finish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the heavy cream with milk or even a plant-based cream for a dairy-free version.
- Chicken Broth: The savory flavor from chicken broth enhances the overall taste of the soup, but vegetable broth can easily be swapped if you’re aiming for a vegetarian dish.
- Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds a sharp, savory kick that complements the richness of the soup perfectly. Feel free to use mild cheddar if you prefer a more subtle cheese flavor.
- Bacon: Bacon adds that irresistible crunch and smoky depth to the soup. If you’re not a fan of bacon, try using crispy pancetta or turkey bacon as alternatives.
Expert Tips
- Use an Immersion Blender: For that perfect smooth-but-chunky texture, an immersion blender is your best friend. It allows you to control the consistency of the soup without making a mess. If you don’t have one, regular blenders or food processors work just fine, but be careful when transferring hot liquids.
- Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Overcooked potatoes can get too mushy and lose their texture. Keep an eye on them, and once they’re fork-tender, you’re ready to puree!
- Add Toppings: The toppings are what make this soup shine! A dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of green onions, or even a handful of crumbled crackers can add some extra crunch and flavor.
- Make It Ahead: Potato soup tends to get even better after sitting in the fridge for a day or two, as the flavors have more time to meld. Just be sure to reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up if it thickens too much.
Recipe Variations
Potato soup is incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative with the ingredients. Here are some fun variations to try:
- Loaded Potato Soup: Go all out and make it ’loaded’ by adding toppings like extra bacon, sour cream, green onions, and a generous handful of shredded cheese. You could even toss in some sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli for extra texture.
- Vegan Potato Soup: For a plant-based twist, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a vegan cream alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and replace the cheese and bacon with dairy-free cheese and crispy tempeh or mushroom bits.
- Spicy Potato Soup: Kick it up a notch by adding some heat! A pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can give the soup a spicy kick. Alternatively, stir in some chopped jalapeños or serve the soup with a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Garlic and Herb Potato Soup: For a fragrant twist, add more garlic and a mix of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage. You can even roast the garlic beforehand for a more mellow, sweet flavor.
Final Words
Potato soup is the definition of comfort food-rich, creamy, and full of flavor. This stovetop recipe is a fantastic go-to when you need something quick but still want a dish that feels like a warm hug. The best part is, it’s so easy to customize to your taste, whether you prefer a classic version or something with a little extra flair.
With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll have a pot of hearty potato soup that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.