There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Cheesy Potato Soup on a chilly winter day. It’s the kind of comforting, hearty dish that just warms you up from the inside out. I can still remember the first time my grandma made it for me – I was just a little kid, probably around 5 or 6 years old. I’d come in from playing in the snow, my cheeks flushed and my fingers numb, and the second I walked through the door, that incredible aroma would hit me. It was like a big, warm hug. Grandma would always have a pot simmering on the stove, and she’d ladle up a big bowl for me, topping it with extra shredded cheddar and crispy bacon bits. I’d curl up on the couch, clutching that bowl like it was the most precious thing in the world, and savor every single spoonful. To this day, that Cheesy Potato Soup recipe takes me right back to those cozy childhood memories.
Why This Cheesy Potato Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The secret behind this Cheesy Potato Soup recipe is in the perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s not just a basic potato soup – it’s got a richness and creaminess that comes from the generous amount of cheese, and a delightful contrast from the crispy bacon and fresh chives. But the real magic happens when you blend half of the potatoes, creating a luxuriously thick and velvety base that coats every spoonful. Trust me, once you try this method, you’ll never go back to a chunky potato soup again.
The Secret Behind Perfect Cheesy Potato Soup
What sets this Cheesy Potato Soup recipe apart is the way the potatoes are prepared. By blending half of them, you end up with a soup that’s got the perfect combination of smooth and chunky textures. The blended potatoes create a creamy, almost velvety base, while the remaining cubed potatoes give you that satisfying bite. And of course, the generous helping of sharp cheddar cheese takes this soup to the next level, making it rich, indulgent, and downright addictive.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
– Potatoes – A mix of russet and Yukon Gold potatoes gives the best texture and flavor.
– Chicken broth – Or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
– Heavy cream – This adds an extra layer of creaminess.
– Cheddar cheese – Shredded sharp cheddar is a must for maximum cheesiness.
– Bacon – Crispy bacon bits lend a delicious savory crunch.
– Onion and garlic – These aromatics build the foundation of flavor.
– Butter and flour – For thickening the soup and creating a velvety texture.
– Chives – Fresh chives add a bright, herbal note to balance the richness.
Step-by-Step Cheesy Potato Soup Instructions
Preparing Your Cheesy Potato Soup
This Cheesy Potato Soup comes together quickly, in about 45 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven, a blender or immersion blender, and a few basic cooking utensils. Let’s get started!
1- Peel and dice the potatoes, keeping the russet and Yukon Gold varieties separate. This will help you achieve the perfect texture.
2- In the pot, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until fragrant and translucent. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk to create a roux.
3- Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and add the diced Yukon Gold potatoes.
4- Cook the potatoes until they’re fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. The broth should thicken up nicely.
5- Carefully transfer half of the potato mixture to a blender and purée until smooth. Return the blended potatoes to the pot.
6- Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar, and crispy bacon bits. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the Cheesy Potato Soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chives.
Pro Tips for Success
– For an extra cheesy flavor, use a blend of cheddar and Gruyère or Parmesan.
– Don’t be tempted to skip the step of blending half the potatoes – it’s the secret to that wonderfully creamy texture.
– Adjust the consistency by adding more broth or cream if the soup is too thick.
– Be careful not to overcook the potatoes, or they’ll start to break down and become gritty.
Serving and Storing Your Cheesy Potato Soup
Perfect Pairings for Cheesy Potato Soup
This Cheesy Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, so it pairs beautifully with warm, crusty bread or flaky biscuits for dipping. A fresh green salad or steamed broccoli also make great accompaniments. And don’t forget a cold glass of milk or a mug of hot apple cider to round out the meal.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Cheesy Potato Soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days, or you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent the cheese from separating. For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the soup base in advance and then add the cheese and cream just before serving.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Cheesy Potato Soup
Creative Cheesy Potato Soup Variations
Want to switch things up? Try adding diced ham or shredded chicken for a heartier meal. You can also play with different cheese combinations, like pepper jack or smoked Gouda. For a seasonal twist, stir in roasted red peppers and a pinch of smoked paprika. And don’t be afraid to get creative with fun toppings, like crispy fried onions, crumbled bacon, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Making Cheesy Potato Soup Diet-Friendly
To make this Cheesy Potato Soup recipe more diet-friendly, you can use low-fat or non-fat milk instead of heavy cream, and opt for reduced-fat cheddar cheese. For a gluten-free version, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. And for a vegan Cheesy Potato Soup, swap the dairy products for plant-based alternatives like unsweetened almond milk and vegan cheddar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use all russet potatoes instead of a mix?
A: You can certainly use all russet potatoes, but the texture won’t be quite as creamy. The Yukon Golds help create a smoother, more velvety base.
Q: How long does the soup take to make?
A: This Cheesy Potato Soup recipe comes together in about 45 minutes from start to finish, including prep time.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Absolutely! Cheesy Potato Soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag.
Q: How do I reheat the soup if it thickens up too much?
A: If the soup becomes too thick after refrigeration or freezing, simply add a splash of broth or milk and gently reheat it on the stovetop, stirring frequently.
Q: What can I do if the cheese separates or curdles?
A: To prevent the cheese from curdling, make sure to add it at the very end and stir it in gently over low heat. If it does start to separate, you can try blending in a bit of extra cream or milk to emulsify it back together.
Cheesy Potato Soup
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 6
Description
Indulge in a rich and creamy Cheesy Potato Soup that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This easy-to-make recipe is loaded with melted cheese and tender potatoes, making it the ultimate comfort food.
Ingredients
– 3 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. 1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent.
2. 2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. 3. Add the diced potatoes and broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
4. 4. In a separate saucepan, whisk together the milk and flour to create a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened.
5. 5. Slowly pour the roux into the pot with the potatoes and broth, stirring to combine.
6. 6. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
7. 7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. 8. Serve the Cheesy Potato Soup hot, garnished with additional toppings like chopped chives, crumbled bacon, or a dollop of sour cream.
Notes
– For a thicker soup, use less broth or let it simmer for longer.
– Swap out the cheddar for other melty cheeses like Gruyère or Gouda.
– Add diced ham or cooked crumbled bacon for extra flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This Cheesy Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food – it’s creamy, it’s indulgent, and it’s guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out. With its perfect balance of smooth and chunky textures, savory bacon, and ooey-gooey cheddar cheese, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a family favorite. I hope you’ll give it a try and experience the magic for yourself. Don’t forget to let me know what you think in the comments below!
