There's something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of creamy potato soup, especially when the temperature drops and the chill of winter sets in. While I'm not one to shy away from a good soup, I do have specific standards—no overly smooth texture, no bland flavors, and definitely no mushy potatoes. The best potato soups are rich, flavorful, and make you feel like everything is going to be okay. This recipe checks all the boxes, offering a perfect balance of creaminess, flavor, and texture that will have you reaching for seconds.
Potato soup is more than just a meal; it's a comfort food staple that brings people together. Whether served with crusty bread, a grilled cheese sandwich, or a cheese biscuit, this dish has a way of making even the coldest days feel cozy. And while it might not be a daily meal, it’s definitely a weekend favorite, especially during the colder months when the idea of a steaming pot of soup on the stove feels like pure magic.
What Makes This Potato Soup So Special?
This version of creamy potato soup isn’t your average recipe. It starts with a base of onions, carrots, and celery, cooked down in a tiny bit of bacon grease to add depth of flavor. Then, chicken broth, flour, milk, and heavy cream come into play, creating a thick and luscious consistency. The addition of Cajun seasoning and a touch of ancho chili powder gives it a unique kick that elevates the dish beyond the typical creamy potato soup.
The key to a great potato soup lies in the ingredients and the technique. Using russet potatoes is essential because their high starch content helps thicken the soup naturally. Peeling them ensures a smoother texture, although Yukon gold potatoes can be left unpeeled if desired. The final step—adding crispy bacon bits and shredded cheese on top—adds a satisfying crunch and extra richness that takes the soup to the next level.
Tips for Perfecting Your Potato Soup
- Cut Potatoes Evenly: To ensure even cooking, dice the potatoes into pieces no larger than ¾ inches. This prevents some chunks from being undercooked while others become too soft.
- Blend for Texture: For a creamy yet slightly chunky texture, blend half of the soup using an immersion blender or a regular blender. This adds thickness without making the soup completely smooth.
- Don’t Overcook Vegetables: Cook the potatoes, carrots, and water until tender but not mushy. Overcooking can lead to a soggy texture that detracts from the overall experience.
- Season as You Go: Taste the soup as you cook and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This ensures a balanced flavor throughout.
- Use Ancho Chili Powder: A small amount of ancho chili powder adds a subtle smokiness that enhances the depth of flavor. Start with ¼ teaspoon and adjust to taste.
How to Make Creamy Potato Soup
Ingredients: - 1 tablespoon butter - 1 onion, diced - 2 potatoes, peeled and diced - 1 carrot, diced - 1 cup water - 1 chicken bouillon cube - 1 teaspoon flour - 1 cup milk - ½ cup heavy cream - Salt and pepper to taste - ¼ teaspoon ancho chili powder (optional) - Crispy bacon bits and shredded cheese for topping
Instructions: 1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. 2. In a separate pot, combine the diced potatoes, carrot, water, and chicken bouillon. Bring to a boil and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes. 3. Add the flour to the cooked onions and stir to create a paste. Cook for 2 minutes, then gradually add the milk while stirring constantly. 4. Once the milk is warmed through, add the cooked vegetable mixture to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, pepper, and ancho chili powder. 5. Use an immersion blender to puree half of the soup, or transfer a portion to a blender and pulse until smooth. Return the blended soup to the pot and mix well. 6. Serve the soup hot, topped with crispy bacon bits and shredded cheese.
Storage and Freezing Tips
Once made, this potato soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to freeze it, be sure to omit the heavy cream before freezing. When ready to serve, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge and reheat it on the stove, adding the heavy cream at the end to maintain its creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're looking for a hearty meal to enjoy on a cold day or simply craving a comforting bowl of soup, this creamy potato soup recipe is sure to hit the spot. With its rich flavors, satisfying texture, and easy-to-follow instructions, it's a dish that everyone can enjoy. Plus, it pairs perfectly with crusty bread, a grilled cheese sandwich, or even a simple side salad. So grab a spoon, curl up with a blanket, and savor every bite of this delicious comfort food.
