This stovetop potato soup is creamy, hearty, and super easy to make! Made with simple ingredients like potatoes, onion, and broth, it’s a cozy treat that warms you right up.
On chilly days, this soup hits the spot! I love topping mine with some crunchy bacon bits and a sprinkle of cheese. Trust me, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl! 🥔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: These small potatoes are poppable and delicious! If you don’t have baby potatoes, regular potatoes work too—just chop them into bite-sized pieces. I love using Yukon Gold for their creamy texture.
Broth: Chicken broth gives a rich flavor, but vegetable broth is a great vegetarian option. Use low-sodium broth if you prefer to control the salt content. Homemade broth can add extra depth!
Heavy Cream: To keep it lighter, you can substitute with half-and-half or even whole milk. I sometimes use a splash of sour cream for a tangy kick, which adds creaminess without all the calories.
Bacon: For a vegetarian version, feel free to leave it out, or use turkey bacon or smoked tempeh instead for a similar smoky flavor. You could also try crispy onion bits as a topping!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite because it melts beautifully and adds lots of flavor. If dairy-free, vegan cheese shreds can work, or nutritional yeast can impart a cheesy taste without the dairy.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Creamy Texture?
Making a creamy potato soup needs a little technique, but it’s easy! Here’s how to achieve that luscious texture:
- After boiling, use a potato masher or immersion blender. Just mash half of the potatoes. This gives a thick, creamy base while keeping some lovely chunks for texture.
- Add the heavy cream gradually. Always warm it up first to prevent curdling. Stir gently while heating the soup but avoid boiling—this keeps your soup smooth.
- Adjust thickness by adding more or less broth, based on your preference. If you want it thicker, don’t forget that the cheese also adds creaminess!
Taking these steps ensures your potato soup is not only comforting but also beautifully creamy every time!
Stovetop Potato Soup
Ingredients:
- 6 cups baby potatoes (halved or quartered if large)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh chives, chopped, for garnish
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stovetop potato soup will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 20-25 minutes to cook, totaling around 40–45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring often, until the onion turns translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This step is key to building great flavor!
2. Cook the Potatoes:
Add the halved baby potatoes to the pot, followed by the chicken or vegetable broth and dried thyme. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
3. Mash for Creaminess:
When the potatoes are cooked through, take a potato masher or an immersion blender and lightly mash some of the potatoes in the pot. This will create a thicker consistency while leaving some chunky bits for texture—perfect for a cozy soup!
4. Add Creaminess:
Next, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the soup is nice and smooth. Be sure not to let it boil, as this can curdle the cream.
5. Season to Taste:
Taste your soup and season with salt and black pepper to your liking. If you fancy some spice, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
6. Serve with Toppings:
Now it’s time to serve! Ladle the warm, comforting soup into bowls and top each serving with crispy crumbled bacon and a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives. They add a lovely pop of color and flavor!
7. Enjoy Your Soup!
Dig in while it’s hot and enjoy each delicious bite of your creamy, comforting stovetop potato soup! It’s the perfect dish for any time you want something cozy and satisfying.
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes are great for their creamy texture, you can use any type, like Yukon Gold or Russets. Just chop them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make this a vegetarian soup, simply swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the bacon. You can add extra toppings like sautéed mushrooms or crispy shallots for added flavor.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, but keep in mind that the texture may change slightly once thawed. Cool the soup completely before transferring it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.
How Can I Thicken the Soup Further?
If you like your soup even thicker, you can mash more of the potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) during the cooking process. Just allow it to simmer for a few minutes to thicken!