Making The Best Creamy Potato Soup is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Peel and dice the potatoes, chop the onion, and mince the garlic.
2. Sauté the Onions: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Add Potatoes and Broth: Add the diced potatoes to the pot, then pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
5. Simmer the Soup: Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Blend the Soup: Carefully use an immersion blender to puree the soup for a creamy texture. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and blend until smooth.
7. Stir in Cream and Seasonings: After blending, return to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Heat through on low for 5 minutes.
8. Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as necessary.
9. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chives, crispy bacon bits, or shredded cheese if desired.

Following these steps will lead to an amazing creamy potato soup that’s sure to satisfy!