Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup Recipe

Nothing says cozy comfort like a big bowl of Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup. Creamy, hearty, and loaded with bacon, this simple recipe brings rich flavor to your table in just one hour.

Why You’ll Love This Potato Soup

This potato soup is thick, creamy, and filled with tender chunks of potato. The crispy bacon adds a smoky bite, while the garlic and onion give depth. With every spoonful of Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup, you’ll enjoy savory richness balanced by fresh herbs.
It’s the kind of soup that feels like a warm hug on a cold evening. The heavy cream makes it indulgent without being overwhelming, and the blend of textures keeps each bite exciting.
Best of all, this soup is versatile. You can serve it for a weeknight dinner, prep it ahead for lunches, or make it the star of a family gathering. Once you taste it, you’ll know why it’s called “absolutely ultimate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Potatoes are the star here, and russet potatoes work best because they’re starchy and create a smooth, thick texture. Alongside them, bacon brings crispness and a salty punch. Onion, celery, and garlic form the aromatic base that makes this soup smell irresistible as it cooks.

Chicken stock gives depth, while butter and flour create a creamy, velvety sauce. Heavy cream takes the flavor to another level, making every spoonful rich. Tarragon and cilantro bring a fresh, herby note that balances the richness.

Optional toppings make this Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup even better. Sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully on top, while green onions or chives add a burst of freshness. For extra indulgence, sprinkle on more bacon crumbles.

Here’s everything you’ll need: 1 pound sliced bacon, 1 diced onion, ½ cup chopped celery, 2 minced garlic cloves, 8 peeled and cubed potatoes, 4 cups chicken stock, 3 tablespoons butter, ¼ cup flour, 1 cup heavy cream, 1 teaspoon dried tarragon, 3 teaspoons chopped cilantro, plus salt and pepper to taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Bacon

Start by cooking the bacon in a large Dutch oven over medium heat until crispy. Remove it with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving a little grease in the pot. That leftover fat adds smoky flavor to the vegetables.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add onion, celery, and garlic. Stir often, letting them soften and release their aroma. This creates a delicious flavor base for your soup.

Simmer the Potatoes

Add the cubed potatoes and stir them gently so they soak up the bacon flavor. Pour in the chicken stock, return the cooked bacon to the pot, and cover. Let it simmer until the potatoes are tender and easy to mash with a fork.

Make the Creamy Herb Mixture

Meanwhile, melt butter in a small saucepan. Whisk in the flour until smooth. Slowly add the heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Stir in the dried tarragon and fresh cilantro, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil until thickened. This step adds richness and herby freshness.

Blend and Finish

Carefully blend half of the Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup until smooth, then return it to the pot. This keeps some potato chunks for texture while making the soup luxuriously creamy. Season with salt and pepper, taste, and adjust as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Tips for the Best Potato Soup

If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend less of the mixture. For silky smooth soup, blend more. Adjust the thickness by simmering uncovered a little longer or stirring in more stock.
Be generous with seasoning. Potatoes need salt to shine, and freshly cracked pepper adds warmth. You can also brighten flavors with a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
For meal prep, divide soup into small containers so it reheats quickly. This recipe makes eight hearty servings, and leftovers taste even better the next day.

How to Thicken Potato Soup

For a naturally thick soup, blend more potatoes directly in the pot. You can also stir in instant mashed potato flakes for quick results. Another option is a cornstarch slurry: mix cornstarch with cold water, then stir it into the simmering soup until thickened.

Storage and Reheating Guide

Cool the soup before storing. Keep it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making reheated portions even more satisfying.
Freezing isn’t ideal because cream-based soups can separate, but if needed, freeze flat in small bags. Use within six months and stir well after reheating.
Reheat gently on the stove, stirring often to avoid sticking. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring between each to maintain creaminess.

Perfect Toppings for Potato Soup

Cheddar cheese is a classic topping that melts into creamy strands. Extra bacon crumbles add crunch and smokiness. Chopped chives or green onions bring a fresh bite that balances the richness.
You can also get creative. Try sour cream for tang, hot sauce for spice, or even a sprinkle of paprika for color and warmth. Toppings make each bowl customizable and fun.

What to Serve With Potato Soup

This hearty soup pairs beautifully with grilled cheese sandwiches. The crispy bread and melted cheese make a perfect match for creamy potato soup.
You can also serve it with crusty bread for dipping, a light salad for freshness, or cornbread for a Southern touch. For more inspiration, check out this pumpkin soup recipe or try a cheesy twist with cheddar cheese potato soup.

Conclusion

Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup is rich, creamy, and comforting, with just the right balance of flavors. It’s perfect for chilly nights, family dinners, or anytime you need a cozy meal.
Give it a try, then share it with friends. Soup this good deserves to be enjoyed around a happy table. For more inspiration, you can always browse my recent recipes or save ideas on Pinterest.