If you love the rich, velvety potato soup from Panera, this Panera’s Cream Cheese Potato Soup is a must-try. With just a handful of ingredients, this soup delivers big comfort in every spoonful. Tender potatoes simmered in seasoned broth and finished with cream cheese create a smooth, creamy texture that feels indulgent yet easy enough for any night of the week.
This is a minimalist recipe that proves less really can be more—simple flavors, cozy warmth, and pure comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Potato Soup
Ultra-creamy texture without heavy cream
Simple ingredients and one-pot cooking
Ready in about 30 minutes
Perfect comfort food for chilly days
It’s smooth, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make.
Ingredients
4 cups chicken broth
4 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed
½ teaspoon seasoning salt
¼ teaspoon white pepper
¼ teaspoon ground red pepper
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, cut into chunks
Directions
Cook potatoes
In a pot, combine chicken broth, potatoes, seasoning salt, white pepper, and red pepper.Boil
Bring to a boil over medium heat and cook until potatoes are tender.Thicken naturally
Smash a few of the potatoes in the pot to release their starch and thicken the soup.Add cream cheese
Reduce heat to low. Add cream cheese chunks.Finish soup
Heat gently, stirring frequently, until cream cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth.
Tips for the Best Potato Soup
Cut potatoes into even-sized cubes for uniform cooking.
Smash only a portion of the potatoes to keep some texture.
Keep heat low when adding cream cheese to prevent curdling.
For extra smooth soup, blend partially with an immersion blender.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with crusty bread, rolls, or a side salad. Garnish with chopped chives, bacon bits, or shredded cheese if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What type of potatoes work best?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for a creamy texture.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently.
Can I freeze this soup?
Cream-cheese-based soups can change texture when frozen, so freezing is not recommended.
Panera’s Cream Cheese Potato Soup Recipe
Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes
Servings
4–6 Servings
Ingredients
4 cups chicken broth
4 cups peeled, cubed potatoes
½ teaspoon seasoning salt
¼ teaspoon white pepper
¼ teaspoon ground red pepper
8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
Instructions
Step 1
Combine broth, potatoes, and spices in a pot.
Step 2
Boil until potatoes are tender.
Step 3
Smash some potatoes to thicken the soup.
Step 4
Reduce heat and add cream cheese.
Step 5
Stir until melted and smooth.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)
Nutrition values vary depending on portion size and ingredients used. This information is approximate and not intended as medical advice.
