Hey there, fellow food lovers! Nyla here, and welcome to my delicious corner of the internet! Are you ready to turn every meal into something absolutely special? I’m talking about those comfort food recipes that just make you want to do a happy dance! Today, we’re diving headfirst into a bowl of creamy, dreamy goodness: Cheesy Potato Soup!
I’m beyond excited to share this recipe with you because it’s not just any soup; it’s the soup that turns ordinary weeknights into cozy flavor adventures. Every spoonful of this Cheesy Potato Soup is like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Get ready to make something amazing!
I remember one late night, I was craving something comforting. I started throwing things together, experimenting like I always do, and BAM! This incredible Cheesy Potato Soup was born! It was a total happy accident turned into a family favorite. I can’t wait to share it with you!
This Cheesy Potato Soup isn’t just about filling your belly; it’s about warming your soul. It’s that one dish that everyone asks for at game nights and potlucks. The best part? It’s way easier to make than you think.
So, grab your favorite apron, and let’s get cooking! This Cheesy Potato Soup is about to become your new go-to recipe for those cozy nights in. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will have everyone begging for more! Trust me, this one’s a winner!
INGREDIENTS You Need
This Cheesy Potato Soup ingredient list is all about bold flavors that actually work together! Nothing complicated, just pure comfort food magic. Here’s what you’ll need to create this masterpiece:
- 6 cups Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed: These potatoes create the perfect creamy texture.
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness that enhances the overall flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Because everything is better with garlic!
- 4 cups chicken broth: Provides a rich, savory base for the soup.
- 1 cup heavy cream: For that luxurious, creamy texture that makes this soup irresistible.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The star of the show! Feel free to use your favorite type of cheddar.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and flavor to the base of the soup.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps to thicken the soup to the perfect consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and brings out the best in the other ingredients.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and enhances the overall taste.
- Optional toppings: Sour cream, bacon bits, chopped green onions – the possibilities are endless!
No worries if you don’t have Yukon Gold potatoes – I use Russet potatoes all the time in my Cheesy Potato Soup. They work just as well! This Cheesy Potato Soup gets its amazing taste from the combination of the creamy potatoes, savory broth, and sharp cheddar cheese.
Here’s my Cheesy Potato Soup secret that takes it from good to incredible: a pinch of nutmeg! It adds a warmth and depth of flavor that you won’t believe. You can grab everything you need for this cheddar potato soup during your normal shopping trip. It’s all pretty standard stuff.
For a shortcut, you can buy pre-chopped onions and minced garlic. I love adding extra cheddar to my Cheesy Potato Soup for that extra cheesy kick! You can store any leftover ingredients in airtight containers in the fridge for later use.
Let’s Make Some!
Alright, fellow food lovers, let’s dive into the delicious magic of making Cheesy Potato Soup! Get ready for a flavor adventure that’s surprisingly easy.
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This is where the magic starts happening!
- Create the roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 1-2 minutes. This will help thicken our creamy potato soup.
- Add the broth and potatoes: Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid any lumps. Add the cubed potatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. This is my favorite part of making Cheesy Potato Soup – watch the magic happen!
- Simmer, simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. In my kitchen, this Cheesy Potato Soup usually takes about 18 minutes. It depends on the size of your potato cubes!
- Blend for creaminess: Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Be careful when blending hot liquids! Don’t worry if your Cheesy Potato Soup looks a little thin at this point. The cheese will thicken it up!
- Stir in the cheese and cream: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Then, stir in the heavy cream. While your Cheesy Potato Soup is doing its thing, get ready for some amazing aromas!
- Taste and adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of garlic powder to suit your taste. Your Cheesy Potato Soup should smell absolutely incredible right now. It’s about to get even better!
- Serve and enjoy: Ladle the potato cheese soup recipe into bowls and top with your favorite toppings. Sour cream, bacon bits, and chopped green onions are always a hit!
How to Serve Up This!
Okay, fellow food lovers, let’s talk about how to serve up this Cheesy Potato Soup and turn it into a flavor explosion! I love to enjoy this easy potato soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping. It’s the perfect way to soak up every last drop of that creamy goodness.
People literally do happy dances when this Cheesy Potato Soup hits the table with some grilled cheese sandwiches. The cheesy overload is real, and it’s amazing! This cheddar potato soup is perfect for those weeknight dinners that need to be special!
For a bolder flavor pairing, try serving this Cheesy Potato Soup with a spicy grilled cheese. The heat from the sandwich cuts through the richness of the soup perfectly. Presentation is key! A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, adds a pop of color and freshness.
Got leftovers? Turn them into loaded baked potato bowls! Top with cheese, bacon, sour cream, and green onions for a whole new meal. For a fusion variation, try adding some roasted poblano peppers to the soup for a smoky kick.
This Cheesy Potato Soup is perfect for a cozy night in, a game night with friends, or even a potluck. No matter the occasion, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. When I serve this Cheesy Potato Soup, I always get requests for the recipe. It’s that good! If you’re loving this comfort food twist, you’ll go crazy for my Cheesy Mashed Potato Roll-Ups Recipe.
FAQs:
Got questions about making the ultimate Cheesy Potato Soup? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common questions and my best tips for success.
Q: Will kitchen newbies succeed with this Cheesy Potato Soup?
A: Absolutely! This homemade potato soup is super straightforward. Just follow the steps, and you’ll be golden! I promise, even if you’re new to cooking, you can nail this recipe.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Of course! While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a little bit of pepper jack for a spicy kick. I once tried using a mix of cheddar and smoked Gouda, and it was AMAZING!
Q: What if I mess up my Cheesy Potato Soup? (Spoiler: it’ll still taste incredible!)
A: Honestly, it’s hard to mess this one up! But if your soup is too thick, just add a little more broth. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a bit longer to let it thicken up. Trust your taste buds!
Q: How can I prep this Cheesy Potato Soup for busy weeknights?
A: You can chop the vegetables ahead of time and store them in the fridge. You can even make the entire soup ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to eat. It tastes even better the next day!
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, but the texture might change slightly due to the dairy. To minimize this, let the soup cool completely before freezing, and thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. I’ve done it a bunch of times, and it’s always been delicious!
Q: Is this Cheesy Potato Soup healthy?
A: It’s comfort food, so it’s not exactly a health food. But you can make it healthier by using low-sodium broth, reducing the amount of cheese, and adding more vegetables. Everything in moderation, right?
Q: What if I don’t have an immersion blender?
A: No problem! You can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Just be cautious when blending hot liquids. Alternatively, you can leave the soup chunky for a more rustic texture. For more weeknight winners that don’t sacrifice on taste, check out Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup!
CONCLUSION:
This Cheesy Potato Soup brings me so much joy because it’s simple, comforting, and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect dish to share with loved ones on a chilly evening. I hope you love it as much as I do!
My Cheesy Potato Soup Flavor Secrets:
- Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg adds warmth and depth of flavor that you won’t believe.
- Garlic: Don’t be shy with the garlic! It adds a delicious savory note that elevates the entire soup.
- Cheese: Use a high-quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor.
Here are a few delicious Cheesy Potato Soup variations I’ve tested:
- Spicy Cheesy Potato Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a kick.
- Bacon Cheesy Potato Soup: Stir in some crispy bacon bits for a smoky, savory twist.
- Broccoli Cheesy Potato Soup: Add some steamed broccoli florets for a healthy and delicious addition.
The spicy version is perfect for a cold winter night, while the bacon version is a hit at game nights. The broccoli version is great for a healthier weeknight meal. I found this Cheddar Cheese Potato Soup Recipe – Amanda’s Cookin’ – Soup for inspiration.
Trust your taste buds and get creative! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses, toppings, and spices. The most important thing is to have fun and create a Cheesy Potato Soup that you love.
I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and create your own delicious memories. Happy cooking, fellow food lovers! And remember, every meal is an opportunity to create something special. Enjoy your Cheesy Potato Soup! Also, I have heard amazing things about The Ultimate Creamy Potato Soup – Sugar Spun Run if you want to try a different take on this recipe!
Cheesy Potato Soup
Warm up with this comforting Cheesy Potato Soup, a creamy and flavorful blend of potatoes, cheese, and savory spices. Perfect for a chilly evening or a satisfying lunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Place the cubed potatoes and chicken broth in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture thickens.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Pour the cheese sauce into the pot with the potatoes. Stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
For a richer flavor, add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of bacon bits before serving.