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This red potato soup is creamy, warm, and perfect for cozy days! It’s packed with tender potatoes, savory broth, and a sprinkle of herbs for extra flavor.

It’s so easy to make, too! I just boil the potatoes and blend everything together. On a chilly day, there’s nothing like a bowl of this comforting goodness!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Red Potatoes: These potatoes have a nice creamy texture and hold their shape well. If you’re in a pinch, Yukon Golds can work too, but the flavor will vary slightly.

Broth: Chicken broth adds depth, but vegetable broth is a great choice for a vegetarian option. Homemade or store-bought both do the job!

Bacon: Besides providing flavor, bacon adds crunch. If avoiding pork, turkey bacon or even mushrooms can add that savory element. You can skip it altogether for a vegetarian soup!

Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives great flavor. If you’re lactose intolerant, try a dairy-free cheese or simply omit it for a lighter soup.

Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute with half-and-half or whole milk. Coconut milk can be a fun alternative for a dairy-free option and adds a hint of sweetness.

How Do You Get Creaminess Without Overcooking the Potatoes?

To achieve a creamy texture without turning the potatoes into mush, it’s essential to keep an eye on cooking times. Start by boiling the potatoes until just tender, about 15-20 minutes. This way, they become soft but still have some texture to enhance your soup’s richness.

• Use a potato masher or immersion blender to partially mash the potatoes. This method keeps some chunks for character while blending others smoothly into the soup.
• If using a traditional blender, let the soup cool a bit before blending to prevent hot splatters.

How to Make Delicious Red Potato Soup

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Soup:

• 6 cups red potatoes, diced with skins on
• 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (reserve some for garnish)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus extra for garnish
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons butter
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• Fresh chives or green onions, chopped for garnish

How Much Time Will You Need?

This scrumptious red potato soup takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare. You’ll simmer the ingredients for about 15-20 more minutes, bringing the total to around 35-40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and satisfying meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Bacon:

In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once done, remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside on a plate, leaving the bacon fat in the pot. This fat will add delicious flavor to the soup!

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

Add the butter to the pot with the bacon fat and melt it over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, diced carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté the mixture until the vegetables become soft, which should take about 5 minutes. Your kitchen will start smelling amazing!

3. Prepare the Soup Base:

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well. Cook for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while stirring constantly to avoid any lumps. Then, add the diced red potatoes and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to let it simmer.

4. Simmer the Soup:

Let the soup simmer until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. You want them soft enough to mash, but not mushy!

5. Mash the Potatoes:

Using a potato masher or an immersion blender, partially mash the potatoes while leaving some chunks for texture—this adds character to your soup!

6. Stir in Cream and Cheese:

Gently stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Keep the heat low and cook until the cheese melts and the soup thickens slightly. This is where the magic happens, and your soup becomes creamy and rich!

7. Final Seasoning:

Season your soup with salt and pepper to taste. Then, add most of the crumbled bacon back into the pot, leaving some for garnishing.

8. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve your delicious red potato soup hot, topped with additional cheddar cheese, the reserved bacon crumbs, and a sprinkle of fresh chives or green onions. Enjoy this warm, cozy dish!

This soup is creamy, hearty, and full of comforting flavors—perfect for cozy dinners!

Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?

Absolutely! While red potatoes provide a creamy texture, you can substitute them with Yukon Gold potatoes for a slightly different flavor. Just ensure they are diced similarly in size for even cooking.

Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bacon. You can add more vegetables or some sautéed mushrooms for added flavor and texture.

How Should I Store Leftover Soup?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat the soup gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

Can I Freeze Red Potato Soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.