Go Back

Creamy Potato Soup (Easy & Filling) - Cozy Comfort in a Bowl

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for extra richness)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced (Yukon Gold for creamy texture, Russet for extra fluff)
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup milk (whole milk preferred; see variations for dairy-free)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or more milk if you want it lighter)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh)
  • 1 bay leaf (optional, but lovely)
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar (optional, for extra creaminess)
  • Toppings: chopped chives or green onions, cooked bacon bits, extra cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or a drizzle of olive oil

Method
 

  1. Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and a pinch of salt. Cook 5–7 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Add potatoes and seasonings: Stir in the diced potatoes, thyme, pepper, and bay leaf. Toss to coat everything in the butter and seasonings.
  3. Pour in the broth: Add the broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook 15–20 minutes, until the potatoes pierce easily with a fork.
  4. Blend for creaminess: Remove the bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until partly smooth, leaving some small chunks for texture. No immersion blender? Carefully ladle half the soup into a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
  5. Finish with dairy: Stir in the milk and cream. Simmer on low for 3–5 minutes. If using, add cheddar and stir until melted. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  6. Serve and garnish: Ladle into bowls and top with chives, bacon, extra cheese, or a swirl of sour cream. Serve with warm bread or a simple green salad.