Bob Evans Cheddar Potato Soup Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself craving something comforting, hearty, and satisfying, then look no further than Bob Evans’ Cheddar Potato Soup. It’s a rich, creamy bowl of warmth that combines the goodness of tender potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and a delicate blend of spices, all melded together in a perfectly smooth base. This soup not only makes for a fantastic meal on a chilly evening but also works as a delightful starter for any gathering.

Bob Evans, a household name for its homestyle cooking and farm-fresh ingredients, has created a soup that’s both simple and indulgent. Whether you’re making it for yourself after a long day, or serving it to friends and family, it’s a recipe that delivers comfort with every spoonful. And the best part? You can easily recreate it at home! Let’s dive into this incredibly tasty and fulfilling recipe, so you can bring that restaurant-quality bowl of soup straight to your kitchen.

Bob Evans Cheddar Potato Soup Recipe

This recipe is a wonderful blend of creamy potatoes, flavorful cheese, and a hearty base. Here’s how you can bring the Bob Evans experience right to your table.

Ingredients Needed

Before you get started, let’s take a quick look at the ingredients you’ll need for this mouthwatering dish:

• Potatoes (preferably russet or Yukon Gold) – 4 to 5 medium-sized potatoes
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese – 2 cups, shredded
• Heavy Cream – 1 cup (for that creamy richness)
• Milk – 2 cups (whole milk works best for a smooth consistency)
• Butter – 4 tablespoons (unsalted)
• Yellow Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic Cloves – 2, minced
• Vegetable or Chicken Broth – 3 cups (for a savory base)
• Flour – 3 tablespoons (to thicken the soup)
• Salt and Pepper – to taste
• Chives or Green Onions – for garnish
• Bacon Bits (optional) – for added flavor and texture
• Sour Cream (optional) – to swirl in for extra creaminess

The combination of these simple ingredients creates a comforting soup that’s packed with flavor and a smooth texture. And, if you’re like me, you’ll probably already have most of these staples in your pantry!

Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking!

1. Prepare the potatoes: Peel the potatoes, then dice them into bite-sized cubes. This will ensure they cook evenly and quickly.
2. Cook the onions and garlic: In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Make the roux: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pot. Once melted, stir in the flour to create a roux. Keep stirring for about 2-3 minutes to ensure it’s golden and free from clumps. This will act as the thickening agent for the soup.
4. Add the broth and potatoes: Gradually whisk in the vegetable or chicken broth, making sure the roux dissolves completely. Once it’s combined, add the diced potatoes to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
5. Blend and simmer: Once the potatoes are soft, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. You can also transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender if you don’t have an immersion blender. Be careful when blending hot liquids! Once the soup is smooth (or slightly chunky, if you prefer), return it to the heat.
6. Add the dairy: Stir in the milk and heavy cream, adjusting the heat to keep it simmering. This will create a velvety texture that’s rich and comforting.
7. Cheese and seasoning: Once the soup is heated through, slowly stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Let the cheese melt completely, and then season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Final touches: If you want to make your soup even more decadent, swirl in a little sour cream and top with crispy bacon bits and fresh chives or green onions for a beautiful garnish.
9. Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness you’ve created.

Ingredient Insights

Understanding the ingredients can elevate your appreciation for this dish even further. Here are some insights into the key components that make this soup so delicious:

• Potatoes: Russets are commonly used in potato soups because they’re starchy and break down easily, creating a smooth texture. Yukon Golds, on the other hand, have a waxy texture and hold their shape better if you prefer a chunkier soup.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a bold flavor that complements the rich creaminess of the soup. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use medium or mild cheddar, but sharp will give you that extra punch.
• Heavy Cream: This ingredient is what makes the soup so creamy and indulgent. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half or use more milk, but heavy cream really gives it that luxurious feel.
• Bacon: Bacon adds a salty, savory crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth texture of the soup. Plus, it gives the soup a smoky undertone that makes it irresistible.

Expert Tips

To take your Bob Evans-inspired cheddar potato soup to the next level, here are a few expert tips:

• Use an immersion blender for a smoother texture: It’s much easier to control the consistency of your soup with an immersion blender, and you don’t have to worry about transferring the hot liquid to a regular blender.
• Don’t skip the roux: It’s key for thickening the soup without making it lumpy. Take the time to cook the flour and butter mixture before adding the liquid.
• Adjust the seasoning: Taste as you go! Potatoes can absorb a lot of flavor, so it’s important to taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
• Make it ahead: This soup actually tastes even better the next day! If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge, and the flavors will continue to develop.

Recipe Variations

While the classic Bob Evans cheddar potato soup is a winner on its own, here are a few fun variations you can try:

• Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Add extra toppings like shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, and a dollop of sour cream to make it even more indulgent.
• Spicy Cheddar Potato Soup: Add some heat by stirring in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Version: For a meat-free take, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can even add in some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
• Chive and Garlic Infused: Enhance the flavor by infusing your milk or cream with fresh garlic and chives before adding it to the soup.

Final Words

This Bob Evans Cheddar Potato Soup recipe is a great way to bring a comforting, hearty dish into your kitchen with minimal effort. It’s rich, creamy, and brimming with bold flavors that are sure to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or something to serve at a dinner party, this soup is always a hit.