Easy Creamy Potato Soup for Cozy Nights

There’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of creamy potato soup on a chilly evening. This easy recipe combines tender potatoes, savory bacon, and a rich, velvety broth for a soup that’s both hearty and satisfying. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, you can enjoy a homemade, restaurant-quality potato soup without spending hours in the kitchen. Topped with cheese, chives, or extra crispy bacon, it’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Potato Soup

• Rich, velvety texture: Part of the soup is pureed for creaminess, while chunks of potato remain for a satisfying bite.
• Loaded with flavor: Bacon, onions, garlic, and a hint of ancho chili powder create a warm, comforting taste.
• Quick and easy: Prep and cook in about 30 minutes with simple pantry ingredients.
• Family-friendly: Mild but flavorful, everyone from kids to adults will enjoy it.
• Customizable toppings: Add cheese, sour cream, chives, or extra bacon for a loaded potato soup experience.
• Perfect for meal prep: It reheats beautifully for lunches or weeknight dinners.

Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or simply craving a hearty meal, this soup checks all the boxes for comfort, flavor, and simplicity.

Ingredients for Creamy Potato Soup

Soup Base

• 6 strips bacon, cut into small pieces
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour

Potatoes and Liquid

• 2½ pounds gold potatoes, peeled and diced (~1 inch)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups milk
• ⅔ cup heavy cream

Seasoning

• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ¼–½ teaspoon ancho chili powder (optional, adds mild smoky flavor)

Finishing Ingredients

• ⅔ cup sour cream
• Reserved cooked bacon
• Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, chives, extra bacon, sour cream

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

• Bacon: For a leaner or non-pork option, use smoked turkey bacon, diced smoked turkey, or a vegetarian bacon alternative.
• Potatoes: Gold potatoes provide creaminess, but Yukon gold or russets work as well.
• Creaminess: Substitute part of the milk or heavy cream with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• Ancho chili powder: Optional, but it adds depth. Paprika works if you don’t have ancho chili.
• Toppings: Customize freely—croutons, green onions, or a sprinkle of smoked cheese are all excellent.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Cook the Bacon

In a large soup pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot. This fat adds a smoky, rich base to the soup.

Step 2 – Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add butter to the pot with the bacon fat. Stir in chopped onion and cook until tender and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Step 3 – Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the cooked onion and garlic, stirring continuously to form a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. This step helps thicken the soup later.

Step 4 – Add Potatoes and Liquid

Stir in the diced potatoes, chicken broth, milk, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and ancho chili powder. Increase heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 5 – Puree Half the Soup

Remove about half of the soup and puree it using a blender or immersion blender until smooth. Return the pureed portion to the pot. This creates a creamy texture while leaving some potato chunks for a hearty bite.

Step 6 – Add Sour Cream and Bacon

Stir in the sour cream and reserved bacon pieces. Simmer for an additional 5–10 minutes to combine flavors and heat through.

Step 7 – Serve with Toppings

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheddar, chives, extra bacon, or a dollop of sour cream. Serve immediately while warm for the best experience.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Use room-temperature dairy when possible to prevent curdling.
2. Don’t overcook the potatoes; you want them tender but not mushy.
3. Blend carefully — pureeing half the soup maintains texture contrast.
4. Adjust seasoning at the end because flavors intensify as the soup simmers.
5. Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
6. Optional spice upgrades: add smoked paprika, a pinch of cayenne, or fresh herbs for variety.

Flavor Variations

• Loaded Potato Soup: Add cooked crumbled sausage, green onions, or roasted red peppers.
• Cheesy Twist: Stir in grated cheddar or Gruyere into the hot soup for an extra creamy version.
• Bacon-Free Version: Skip bacon and use smoked paprika or liquid smoke to add a smoky flavor.
• Vegetable Boost: Add diced carrots, parsnips, or celery to make it a more substantial stew-like soup.
• Herb Infusion: Add thyme, rosemary, or parsley for a fresh herbal note.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or soft dinner rolls.
• Pair with a simple green salad for a light, balanced meal.
• For a baked potato-style presentation, top with cheddar, bacon, and sour cream.
• Make it a main dish by adding extra protein like shredded chicken or ham.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

Refrigerator:

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The soup may thicken as it cools; simply reheat with a splash of milk or broth.

Freezer:

• Freeze in portions in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating:

Warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a bit of milk or broth if needed for a creamy consistency.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

(Approximate, based on 8 servings)

OTHER RECIPES YOU MIGHT ENJOY

• Amazing Cranberry Fluff: Simple No-Cook Salad
• Easy Banoffee Pie: Classic No-Bake Dessert
• Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake: Treat Yourself Today!

FAQ About Creamy Potato Soup

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the bacon with smoked paprika or a vegetarian bacon substitute and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The sour cream and heavy cream still provide richness.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the soup completely and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding extra milk if it’s too thick.

What type of potatoes are best?

Gold potatoes provide a creamy texture and hold their shape well. Yukon Gold or russet potatoes work fine, but avoid waxy varieties that may become too soft.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth to return it to the desired consistency.

How do I get a creamy texture without using heavy cream?

You can substitute some or all of the heavy cream with whole milk or Greek yogurt. Pureeing half the soup also helps achieve a rich, creamy texture without extra cream.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Creamy Potato Soup for Cozy Nights is a classic comfort food that’s simple, fast, and always satisfying. With its creamy texture, tender potato chunks, and smoky bacon flavor, it’s perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or chilly evenings at home. Customize the toppings and seasoning to your taste, and you’ll have a versatile, crowd-pleasing soup that everyone will love.For more inspiration, check out this Easy Pumpkin Better Than Sex Cake or explore more on Pinterest for your next meal idea!