Creamy Potato Soup with Optional Cheddar and Bacon

Name: Creamy Potato Soup with Optional Cheddar and Bacon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 4 whole medium potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 whole medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 l chicken or vegetable broth; 50 g unsalted butter; 100 ml heavy cream; 100 g cheddar, grated, optional; 75 g smoked bacon, cooked and crumbled, optional; 1 tsp fine salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp chopped parsley

Comforting potato soup with onion, garlic, cream and optional cheese and bacon.

By Savva LoginovUpdated October 2, 2026

Total 50 minMakes 4 servings

Jump to Recipe

This creamy potato soup simmers potatoes in broth with onion and garlic, then finishes with cream and cheese. Mash some of the potatoes in the pot to thicken the soup while keeping a few pieces whole. Melt butter in a soup pot. Cook onion 5 minutes until soft; add garlic for 30 seconds. Add potatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer covered 15 to 20 minutes until potatoes are tender. Mash some potatoes against the side of the pot. Stir in cream, salt and pepper; simmer gently 5 minutes. Stir in cheese if using until melted. Serve with bacon and parsley.

Creamy Potato Soup with Optional Cheddar and Bacon

How to tell when it is ready

Cook until tender, set or golden as described.

Tips

Measure ingredients before starting.
Use even-sized pieces for consistent cooking.
Taste and adjust seasoning near the end.
Cool leftovers promptly and refrigerate covered.

Troubleshooting

If mixture is too thick, add liquid gradually.
If browning too quickly, lower the heat.

Substitutions

Use a suitable neutral oil if needed.
Choose a compatible dairy-free alternative where appropriate.

Variations

Adjust herbs or spices to taste.
Add citrus zest for a brighter flavor.

Serving suggestions

Serve with a fresh seasonal side.
Pair with a suitable salad or fruit.
Offer a complementary sauce or topping.
Serve warm for the best texture.

Make ahead

Measure ingredients ahead and refrigerate perishable components; finish shortly before serving.

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers promptly and use within 3 days.

Food safety

Contains dairy. Refrigerate leftovers promptly; reheat until steaming hot.

Frequently asked questions

Can I prepare this ahead?

Prepare components ahead and refrigerate promptly.

How should I store creamy baked potato soup?

Refrigerate leftovers promptly and use within 3 days.

Serve promptly and store leftovers safely.

About the author

Savva Loginov

Savva Loginov writes about traditional Ukrainian cooking, including regional dishes, heritage baking and the customs behind familiar recipes. His English guides explain each dish’s context alongside clear, practical cooking instructions.

Creamy Potato Soup with Optional Cheddar and Bacon