Creamy Potato Soup

Featured in Big pots of steaming, hearty soup.

Why go out when you can enjoy thick, cheesy bacon-topped potato soup at home? It's like wrapping your favorite baked potato in a warm hug of creaminess.

alicia in the kitchen
Updated on Sat, 24 May 2025 11:58:56 GMT
A comforting bowl of potato soup loaded with crispy bacon bits and fresh parsley, served with chopped cilantro on the side. Pin it
A comforting bowl of potato soup loaded with crispy bacon bits and fresh parsley, served with chopped cilantro on the side. | tasteofsavor.com

The first spoonful of this creamy soup at Outback Steakhouse totally blew my mind, so I just had to crack the code at home. After trying over and over, I finally pieced together this spot-on version that brings all those comforting restaurant vibes to your own kitchen. It’s soothing, super rich, and just what you want on a chilly night in.

Irresistible Comfort in Every Bite

This is the kind of soup I want when I need something extra special. Around here, we’re all about savoring the things that make us smile. Once you dig into this smooth bowl loaded up with gooey cheese and crispy bacon bits, you’ll get why it’s totally worth it.

Everything You Want in a Cozy Bowl

  • Toppings: Go wild with bacon bits (⅛ cup) and chopped green onions (⅛ cup) for a finishing touch that really pops.
  • Butter and Cheese: Melt ½ cup butter and toss in ¾ cup cheddar cheese for a flavor bomb.
  • Flour and Cream: ⅓ cup all-purpose flour and 1 ½ cups heavy cream keep things thick and dreamy.
  • Seasonings: Don’t forget ½ teaspoon each of ground black pepper and kosher salt for just the right kick.
  • Onion: Dice up ½ small onion for a little extra oomph.
  • Chicken Broth: 2 ½ cups of chicken broth set up the savory base.
  • Potatoes: 4 big potatoes to steal the show and fill you up.

Simple Steps to Total Deliciousness

Finish with Toppings:
Toss bacon bits, green onions, and extra cheese on top for melty perfection.
Combine Ingredients:
Now dump everything together in your pot and keep stirring till it’s smooth and creamy.
Make the Roux:
Whisk flour with some chicken broth in another pan and let it turn a light golden color.
Create the Flavor Base:
Pour chicken broth with a little oil into a big pot on medium heat and get it going.
Prepare Potatoes:
Chop four large potatoes and boil till they’re soft and easy to poke with a fork.

Make It Look Awesome

Garnishing this tasty soup is always my favorite part. Drizzle on some olive oil for a glossy finish, sprinkle plenty of green onions for color, and dump on more cheese because why not. Add your bacon bits, a dollop of sour cream, and some chopped garden herbs for a photogenic finish.

Every Bite Is So Worth It

If you ask me, some dishes are just meant to be savored guilt-free. This thick and creamy soup falls into that category. Fill your bowl, grab a warm slice of bread, and take a cozy break to enjoy this comfort classic. Your taste buds are gonna love it.

A close-up look at a creamy, cheesy soup topped with green onions and crispy bacon in a black bowl. Pin it
A close-up look at a creamy, cheesy soup topped with green onions and crispy bacon in a black bowl. | tasteofsavor.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why cook the potatoes first?

Boiling the potatoes separately means they'll be soft but not mushy. It also keeps the soup from turning out overly starchy.

→ What's the secret to creaminess?

Heavy cream and a buttery roux make it so rich—both are must-haves. Skip these, and you lose that signature texture.

→ Can I use milk instead of cream?

Cream makes it thicker and richer. Half-and-half can work, but milk will leave it too watery.

→ Why is the roux cooked separately?

This way, there are zero lumps, and it also gets rid of the flour's raw taste. It gives the soup its smooth base!

→ Can it be made in advance?

You bet! Store it for up to 4 days. Add a touch of cream when reheating, and it’ll taste just as good.

Creamy Potato Soup

Thick and velvety potato soup with cheese, smoky bacon bits, and green onions. Tastes like your favorite but homemade.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
40 Minutes
By: Alicia

Category: Soups & Stews

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 6 Servings (1 big pot)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

01 4 big potatoes.
02 2 1/2 cups of chicken broth.
03 1 cup cold water.
04 3/4 cup thick cream.
05 1/2 cup of butter.
06 3/4 cup shredded cheddar.
07 1/2 small onion, chopped up.
08 1/8 cup crispy bacon bits.
09 1/8 cup chopped green onion.
10 1/3 cup plain flour.
11 1/2 teaspoon table salt.
12 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper.
13 Water to boil the potatoes.

Instructions

Step 01

Cut into small pieces. Cook in boiling water till soft. Set them aside.

Step 02

Combine broth, onions, and spices. Let it gently bubble for 20 minutes.

Step 03

Heat butter till melted. Stir in flour. Cook for a few minutes till it thickens.

Step 04

Mix roux with broth. Pour in cream. Let it simmer for another 20 minutes. Add your cooked potatoes.

Step 05

Sprinkle cheddar on top. Toss on bacon bits and green onion slices.

Notes

  1. You can make it in advance and heat it gently later.
  2. Cooking potatoes first stops the soup from turning too thick.
  3. For the creamiest result, stick to heavy cream.

Tools You'll Need

  • Big cooking pot.
  • Small saucepan.
  • Balloon whisk.
  • Pot for boiling potatoes.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Has dairy (butter, cheese, cream).
  • Contains wheat (from flour).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 385
  • Total Fat: 26 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 28 g
  • Protein: 12 g