This Cheesy Potato Soup is the warm hug you need on chilly days! It’s creamy and packed with tasty potatoes and cheese that make every spoonful irresistible.
I love how quick and easy it is to make! Just cook the potatoes, add the cheese, and enjoy a comforting bowl that feels like home. Don’t forget a sprinkle of green onions on top!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, you could try cauliflower instead, but keep in mind it will change the flavor slightly.
Broth: Chicken broth adds great flavor, but you can use vegetable broth if you want to keep it vegetarian. Homemade broth will enhance the soup even more if you have it on hand!
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is the star of this dish. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use mild cheddar or even a blend of cheeses, like Monterey Jack or cream cheese for extra creaminess.
Sour Cream: This adds a rich taste, but you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a healthier option. It will still give a nice tang to your soup.
Bacon: If you’d rather skip the bacon, try using crispy fried onions or mushrooms for additional texture and flavor without meat.
How Do I Get My Soup to Be Creamy and Smooth?
The key to a creamy soup is making a roux and blending the potatoes just right. Here’s how:
- Start by cooking the onions and garlic in butter until soft. This base adds so much flavor!
- When you add the flour, cook it for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw taste. Stir constantly to avoid burning.
- While whisking, pour in the broth and milk to avoid lumps. It should be smooth before you add the potatoes.
- Cook the potatoes until tender, and then use a masher or immersion blender to create a balance of smoothness and chunks—this gives a nice texture!
- Finally, stir in cheese and sour cream off the heat for a creamy finish. Enjoy your delicious, cozy soup!
Delicious Cheesy Potato Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 6 medium potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup diced onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Richness & Creaminess:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Toppings:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting cheesy potato soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook. In total, you should budget around 45 minutes to have this delicious dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Start by melting the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced onions and sauté them until they’re translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant, bringing out all those delicious flavors!
2. Make the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the buttery onion and garlic mixture. Stir it in to combine, cooking for 1-2 minutes. This will create a roux which helps to thicken the soup. Be sure to stir constantly during this step to prevent any burning!
3. Add Liquids:
Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth and milk (or half-and-half) until well combined. This helps prevent any lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer while continuing to stir occasionally.
4. Cook the Potatoes:
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and cover it. Let everything simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. This is where all the flavors meld together beautifully!
5. Mash for Texture:
Using a potato masher or immersion blender, carefully mash some of the potatoes in the pot to thicken the soup. Leaving some chunks will enhance the texture and provide a hearty feel to your soup.
6. Add the Cheese:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until it melts and incorporates smoothly into the soup. This is where the dish truly comes alive with that cheesy goodness!
7. Final Touches:
Next, mix in the sour cream for added creaminess. Taste the soup and season it with salt and pepper according to your liking. Adjust any seasoning if necessary for that perfect flavor!
8. Serve with Toppings:
Serve the soup hot, ladling it into bowls. Top each bowl with crumbled bacon, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar, and fresh chopped chives for a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy your comforting bowl of cheesy potato soup!
This creamy, cheesy soup with tender potatoes, crispy bacon bits, and fresh chives makes for a delicious and comforting meal that warms you from the inside out!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is traditional, you can mix it up with milder cheeses like Monterey Jack or even a creamy blend. For a fun twist, try adding some Gruyère for a gourmet touch!
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Leftover Cheesy Potato Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture as it may thicken upon cooling.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bacon. For extra flavor, you might want to add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for a delicious depth of taste!
Can I Freeze Cheesy Potato Soup?
You can freeze the soup, but keep in mind that the texture may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, let it cool completely and store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding milk as needed to revive creaminess.