Have you ever craved a warm bowl of comfort that wraps you in its rich, creamy goodness? Cheesy Potato Soup delivers just that. This delightful dish combines the heartiness of potatoes with the indulgence of melted cheese, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Perfect for chilly nights or a cozy gathering with friends and family, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Imagine sitting down to enjoy a steaming bowl filled with tender potatoes swimming in a velvety cheese broth. The aroma fills the air as you take your first spoonful; the combination of cheese and savory spices creates an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself after a long day, this cheesy potato soup makes every occasion special. Anticipate warmth and satisfaction with each bite!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Potato Soup

Unmatched Comfort: This cheesy potato soup is the ultimate comfort food, providing warmth and solace during cold weather or stressful days.
Quick and Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe can be on your table in less than an hour.
Customizable Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or spices to make this dish uniquely yours—a little bacon or green onions can elevate it!

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Cheesy Potato Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Potatoes: Use starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold for the best texture; aim for about four medium-sized potatoes.
Onion: One medium onion adds flavor; finely chop it for even cooking.
Garlic: Two cloves of fresh garlic will enhance the aromatic base; minced is best.
Chicken Broth: About four cups of low-sodium chicken broth will form the foundation of your soup; opt for homemade if possible.
Cream Cheese: Eight ounces will provide creaminess; let it soften before adding to ensure it blends well.
Cheddar Cheese: Use two cups of shredded sharp cheddar for maximum flavor; feel free to substitute with other cheeses if desired.
Salt and Pepper: Seasoning is essential; adjust according to taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cheesy Potato Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by washing and peeling your potatoes. Cut them into small cubes so they cook evenly.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Once hot, sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about five minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook Potatoes

Add the cubed potatoes to the pot along with chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender—approximately fifteen minutes.

Step 4: Blend Until Smooth

Once cooked, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Cream Cheese

Stir in softened cream cheese until fully incorporated. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese while stirring continuously until melted and creamy.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste your soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving. Ladle into bowls and garnish with optional toppings like crispy bacon or chives.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Choose Your Cheese Wisely: Opt for high-quality sharp cheddar as it melts better and adds more flavor compared to mild varieties.
Add Fresh Herbs: Consider topping your soup with fresh parsley or thyme for added freshness.
Make Ahead Options: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to three days—just reheat gently on the stove when ready to enjoy!

Mistakes to avoid

Using the wrong type of potato: Selecting the right potato is crucial for a creamy texture in your Cheesy Potato Soup. Starchy potatoes, like Russets or Yukon Golds, work best as they break down easily and absorb flavors. Avoid waxy potatoes such as red or fingerling varieties, as they hold their shape and can lead to a grainy soup. The right choice ensures a velvety consistency that enhances the cheesy flavor.
Overcooking the potatoes: While cooking your potatoes until tender is essential, overcooking them can lead to mushiness. Aim for perfectly tender potatoes that still hold their shape slightly. This will create a nice contrast with the creamy broth and cheese. Monitor the cooking time closely, especially if you’re using varying sizes of potato chunks, to achieve that perfect texture.
Neglecting seasoning: Flavor is key in any soup, and neglecting seasoning can leave your Cheesy Potato Soup bland. Always season your soup at multiple stages of cooking. Start with salt and pepper when sautéing onions and garlic, then adjust as you add broth and cheese. Taste frequently to ensure you’re building layers of flavor that elevate your final dish.
Choosing low-quality cheese: The type of cheese you use significantly impacts the taste of your soup. Opt for high-quality cheeses like sharp cheddar or Gruyère for maximum flavor. Low-quality cheese may not melt well and can create an unappealing texture. Grate fresh cheese instead of using pre-shredded versions; this prevents anti-caking agents from affecting creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

This Cheesy Potato Soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Crusty Bread – Serve with freshly baked bread or toast for dipping. The texture of the crusty bread complements the creamy soup.
Salad – A light green salad adds freshness to the meal. Consider a simple mixed greens salad drizzled with vinaigrette.
Toppings – Enhance your bowl of Cheesy Potato Soup with toppings like crispy bacon bits, shredded cheese, or fresh chives for added flavor and texture.

Tips and tricks

FAQs

What ingredients do I need for Cheesy Potato Soup?

To prepare Cheesy Potato Soup, gather the following ingredients: potatoes, cheddar cheese, onion, garlic, broth, milk or cream, and seasonings like salt and pepper. You can also include optional ingredients such as bacon or vegetables like carrots for added nutrition. Chop the potatoes and onions before starting to make the cooking process smoother. Using fresh ingredients will enhance the flavor profile of your soup.

How can I make my Cheesy Potato Soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker consistency in your Cheesy Potato Soup, consider mashing some of the potatoes after they are cooked. This will create a creamy texture without needing extra thickeners. Alternatively, you can add a slurry made from cornstarch and water toward the end of cooking to achieve thickness. Let it simmer for a few minutes after adding to allow it to thicken properly.

Can I freeze Cheesy Potato Soup?

Yes, you can freeze Cheesy Potato Soup! To do this effectively, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Make sure to leave some space at the top of each container for expansion during freezing. When ready to enjoy again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove while stirring frequently.

What variations can I try with Cheesy Potato Soup?

There are many delicious variations you can try with Cheesy Potato Soup! You might add different types of cheese such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a unique twist. Incorporating vegetables like broccoli or spinach not only enhances nutrition but also adds vibrant color. For a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or hot sauce. Experimenting with different herbs and spices can also elevate the flavor profile of your soup.

Conclusion for Cheesy Potato Soup

In conclusion, making a delightful bowl of Cheesy Potato Soup is simple and satisfying. By using fresh ingredients like potatoes and cheddar cheese, you create a comforting dish that warms both body and soul. Serving suggestions such as crusty bread or light salads enhance your meal experience while allowing for creative toppings adds personal flair. With easy variations and storage options available, this recipe truly shines as an adaptable favorite in any kitchen. Enjoy every spoonful of this cheesy delight!

Ultimate Cheesy Potato Soup Recipe

Save Recipe

This creamy Cheesy Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, packed with tender potatoes, savory cheese, and a rich, velvety broth. It’s a filling and satisfying soup that’s perfect for chilly days, family dinners, or as a cozy meal on its own. With a perfect balance of flavor and creaminess, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Author: Mason Recipes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: 6 servings
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups milk (whole or 2% recommended)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for added creaminess)
1/4 cup unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh chives or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Extra shredded cheese (for topping)

Instructions

Cook the Potatoes and Aromatics:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes, until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Make the Soup Base:
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot along with the chicken or vegetable broth, dried thyme, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Create the Creamy Base:
- In a separate small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, and continue cooking for 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Combine and Add Cheese:
- Add the creamy milk mixture to the pot with the potatoes and broth. Stir to combine.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream (if using). Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese has melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra shredded cheese and fresh chives or green onions. Serve immediately with crusty bread or crackers.

Notes

For a Thicker Soup: To make the soup even thicker, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot with a potato masher or immersion blender.
Add-ins: Feel free to add cooked bacon bits, shredded chicken, or sautéed mushrooms for additional flavor and texture.
Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove, adding a little extra milk or broth to loosen the soup if needed.
Freezer-Friendly: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

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