
Cheesy Potato Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Rich, creamy, and loaded with cheesy goodness, this potato soup is the perfect cozy meal for chilly days. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that works as a starter or a hearty main dish. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to satisfy!
Ingredients for Cheesy Potato Soup
Soup Base:
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cups (720ml) chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup (240ml) milk
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- **Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Optional Toppings:
- Crumbled bacon
- Green onions
- Chopped parsley
- Extra shredded cheese
How to Make Cheesy Potato Soup
Step 1: Cook the Vegetables
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the diced potatoes, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and chicken or vegetable broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Base
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and 1/2 cup of milk until smooth. Slowly add this mixture to the soup, stirring constantly to thicken.
- Add the remaining milk and heavy cream, stirring well to combine.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
- Remove the soup from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
Step 4: Blend for Texture (Optional)
- For a smooth soup, use an immersion blender to blend the mixture partially or fully.
- If you prefer a chunkier soup, simply mash some of the potatoes with a fork or potato masher.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like crumbled bacon, green onions, parsley, and extra cheese.
- Serve hot with a side of fresh bread or crackers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of potatoes, cheese, and cream makes this soup irresistibly smooth and flavorful.
- Customizable: Add bacon, veggies, or even spice it up with chili flakes to suit your taste.
- Quick and Easy: A simple recipe that’s ready in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Potato Soup
- Freshly Grate Your Cheese: Pre-grated cheese can be less creamy when melted. Grating your own ensures a smooth texture.
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for a creamy soup.
- Don’t Overheat the Cheese: Remove the soup from heat before adding the cheese to avoid curdling.
FAQs About Cheesy Potato Soup
1. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the bacon topping.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to prevent the cheese from separating.
3. Can I freeze potato soup?
While you can freeze it, the texture may change slightly due to the dairy. For best results, freeze the soup before adding the cream and cheese, and stir them in after reheating.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
Cheesy potato soup is the ultimate comfort food. Its creamy, hearty texture and rich flavor make it perfect for warming up on a cold day. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is a winner.
Give this cheesy potato soup recipe a try today, and enjoy a cozy, delicious meal that everyone will love. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and photos in the comments below. Happy cooking!