There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of potato soup, especially as the days get shorter and a chill creeps into the air. One evening, as the aroma of slow-simmering russet potatoes mingled with crispy turkey bacon filled my kitchen, I knew I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a family favorite. This meal is more than just a dish; it’s a warm embrace on a cold day, a cozy gathering point for loved ones, and a wonderfully creamy indulgence that’s surprisingly easy to whip up.

What truly sets this potato soup apart is its versatility—it can easily be tailored to suit any dietary preference. Want a vegetarian version? Simply swap out the turkey bacon for your favorite vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or savoring a quiet night alone, this customizable soup captures the essence of comfort food with each velvety spoonful. So grab your ingredients and let’s create a comforting bowl of joy together!

Why is Potato Soup the Ultimate Comfort Food?

Warmth and satisfaction. This hearty potato soup boasts a velvety texture that hugs you with every spoonful.
Customizable for everyone. With easy vegetarian adaptations, this soup caters to diverse palates without sacrificing flavor.
Effortless cooking. You’ll appreciate how simple it is to throw this together, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.
Crowd-pleaser appeal. Serve it at gatherings, and watch as family and friends gather around for seconds (and thirds!).
Ideal with sides. Pair it with crusty bread or croutons, elevating this comforting dish to a meal worth savoring.
Experience the magic yourself with this easy, creamy potato soup recipe.

Potato Soup Ingredients

For the Base

Russet Potatoes – The star ingredient for a creamy texture; opt for starchy potatoes for the best results.
Onion – Adds a deep, savory flavor; shallots can be a milder alternative if preferred.
Celery – Enhances the soup’s aroma and depth; can decrease quantity to suit your taste.
Carrot – Introduces natural sweetness; it’s optional but recommended for extra color and flavor.

For the Broth

Chicken Broth – Provides a robust flavor profile; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian potato soup.

For Thickening

Flour – Helps create a creamy consistency; gluten-free flour is a suitable alternative for those with sensitivity.
Milk – Adds richness to the soup; whole milk is best, but half-and-half or cream will enhance the creaminess even further.

For Garnish

Turkey Bacon – Adds a delightful crunch and savory touch; can be substituted with regular bacon or omitted for a vegetarian option.
Parsley – A fresh finish that adds a pop of color and brightness to your dish.
Cheese – Optional but highly recommended for added richness and flavor.

Get ready to gather these ingredients and transform your kitchen into a cozy haven with this delightful potato soup!

How to Make Potato Soup

Cook Turkey Bacon: In a large soup pot, cook the turkey bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside, leaving some rendered fat in the pot for added flavor.
Sauté Vegetables: Return the pot to medium heat and add diced onion, celery, and carrot. Stir occasionally for about 2 minutes until they soften and develop a fragrant aroma.
Add Potatoes and Seasonings: Carefully add the diced russet potatoes, along with salt, pepper, and any desired seasonings. Stir well to combine all flavorful ingredients.
Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for approximately 10 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Thicken Soup: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together flour and milk until smooth. Gradually stir this mixture into the pot, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the soup thickens to a creamy consistency.
Blend Part of Soup: Scoop out about one-quarter to one-half of the soup and blend it until smooth in a blender or with an immersion blender. Return the blended portion to the pot, stirring to achieve that velvety texture.
Finish and Serve: Stir in the crumbled turkey bacon, reserving some for garnish. Serve hot, decorated with fresh parsley and cheese for a delightful touch.

Optional: Top with crispy croutons for an extra crunch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Potato Soup?

Cozy up by creating a delightful meal that pairs perfectly with your warm bowl of creamy comfort.

Crusty Bread: This hearty option is perfect for dipping, soaking up every last drop of your creamy soup.
Crispy Croutons: Add crunch with seasoned croutons on top, elevating the texture and flavor of the dish beautifully.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light, vibrant salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich soup, making it a balanced meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Earthy roasted veggies bring a wonderful depth to your dinner table while complementing the soup’s flavors.
Cheese Plate: Pair with a selection of cheeses for a sophisticated touch that enhances the comfort of your meal.
Sparkling Cider: This effervescent drink cleanses the palate between bites, making each spoonful even more enjoyable.
Apple Pie: Indulge in this classic dessert for a sweet finish that harmonizes with the comforting essence of potato soup.

Expert Tips for Potato Soup

Use Starchy Potatoes: Opt for Russet potatoes as they yield the best creamy texture. Avoid waxy varieties, which can result in a gluey soup.

Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on your vegetables while sautéing. They should be tender but still vibrant, adding both flavor and color to your potato soup.

Blend for Creaminess: Blending part of the soup is essential for achieving that desired velvety consistency. Don’t skip this step for a luxurious mouthfeel!

Layer Seasoning: Season at different cooking stages to build depth of flavor. A pinch of salt during vegetable sautéing can make all the difference.

Steer Clear of Low-Fat Dairy: For maximum richness, avoid low-fat options. Whole milk or cream will truly elevate your potato soup into comforting bliss.

Storage Tips for Potato Soup

Fridge: Store leftover potato soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the potato soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Portion it into smaller servings for easy reheating later.

Reheating: Thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Airtight Guidance: Ensure containers are sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn and preserve the delicious flavors of your potato soup.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing this delightful potato soup ahead of time is a game-changer for busy home cooks! You can chop the vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can pre-cook the turkey bacon and refrigerate it, ensuring it retains its crispiness when added. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the prepped vegetables as directed and proceed with the recipe. For even more convenience, you can cook and blend the entire soup up to 24 hours in advance; just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk for that creamy texture, and then stir in the crispy bacon just before serving. This makes your meal prep seamless and keeps the potato soup just as delicious as when freshly made!

Potato Soup Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delightful substitutions and twists to make your potato soup your very own masterpiece!

Vegetarian: Omit turkey bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a hearty soup that’s still full of flavor.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh thyme or dill while simmering for a refreshing herbal twist that elevates the dish.
Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños; the heat adds excitement and warmth to each bowl.
Creamy Swap: For an even richer experience, replace some of the milk with heavy cream or half-and-half for extra indulgence.
Extra Veggies: Boost nutrition by folding in chopped spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking, adding color and health benefits.
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked turkey bacon or a dash of liquid smoke for that deep, enticing flavor that makes every bite an adventure.
Gluten-Free: Substitute flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to maintain that creamy texture without gluten.
Cheesy Delight: Mix in a handful of shredded cheddar or parmesan at the end for a luscious, gooey finish that cheese lovers will adore.

Let your creativity shine with these variations, and enjoy a comforting bowl of potato soup that’s uniquely yours!

Best Homemade Potato Soup with Turkey Bacon Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes are best for potato soup?
Absolutely! For the best results, I highly recommend using starchy Russet potatoes. They create a creamy texture that’s perfect for soups. Avoid waxy potato varieties like red potatoes, as they can lead to a gluey consistency.

How should I store leftover potato soup?
Leftover potato soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy. It’s a great way to enjoy that comforting flavor the next day!

Can I freeze potato soup?
Yes! To freeze your potato soup, first allow it to cool completely. Then, pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on low heat, stirring often to maintain creaminess.

What if my potato soup turned out too thick?
Very! If your soup is thicker than you’d like, simply add a bit of milk or broth while gently stirring it on the stove. Start with a small amount (about 1/4 cup) and adjust until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, blending part of the soup can also help achieve that silky texture.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! For a delicious vegetarian version, just omit the turkey bacon and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also add more vegetables like corn or peas. They not only add nutrition but also enhance the flavor profile—very satisfying!

Are there allergies I should consider with potato soup?
Indeed! This potato soup contains dairy and gluten due to the milk and flour. If you have a dairy allergy, consider using non-dairy milk and a gluten-free flour alternative. Always check the labels on your ingredients to accommodate any specific allergies or dietary restrictions.