Cheesy potato soup is one of those timeless comfort foods that has a magical ability to bring warmth to both the body and soul. It’s creamy, rich, and indulgent-perfect for those chilly evenings or when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying. The combination of soft potatoes, melty cheese, and a savory broth creates a bowl of pure joy that makes every spoonful feel like a hug.
If you’ve ever had a bowl of cheesy potato soup, you know that the cheesy, velvety texture is so much more than just a dish-it’s an experience. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or enjoying a cozy night in, this soup is sure to please.
Let’s break it down step by step. Here’s a recipe that’s easy to follow, with a creamy, cheesy taste that’s absolutely irresistible.
Cheesy Potato Soup Recipe
This recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly, making it perfect for anyone looking to create a rich, flavorful soup without the fuss. The ingredients come together easily, and the result is a hearty, comforting bowl of cheesy goodness. It’s a versatile recipe, so you can make it your own with a few tweaks and variations.
Ingredients Needed
To make the best cheesy potato soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 6 medium potatoes – Russet potatoes are the classic choice for their fluffy texture and ability to absorb flavors. You can peel them or leave the skin on, depending on your preference.
- 4 cups chicken broth – This forms the base of the soup. You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- 1 cup milk – Whole milk adds to the creaminess, but you can substitute half-and-half or heavy cream if you’re looking for an even richer soup.
- 1 tablespoon butter – For sautéing the onions and garlic to create a flavorful base.
- 1 medium onion – A finely chopped onion gives depth to the soup’s flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic – Garlic adds that aromatic kick that makes the soup more complex and savory.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – This is the star of the show, so make sure to choose a sharp cheddar for maximum flavor.
- 1 cup sour cream – Adds a tangy creaminess to balance the richness of the cheese and butter.
- Salt and pepper – To taste. These will help bring out all the other flavors in the soup.
- Chopped green onions (optional) – For garnish, offering a fresh contrast to the richness of the soup.
Cooking Instructions
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Prepare The Potatoes
- Peel (or leave the skins on) and chop the potatoes into small cubes, around 1-inch in size. This helps them cook faster and ensures a smooth texture in the final soup.
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Sauté The Onion And Garlic
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This forms the aromatic base of your soup.
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Cook The Potatoes
- Add the chopped potatoes to the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
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Mash The Potatoes
- Once the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to mash some of them directly in the pot. This helps thicken the soup, giving it that creamy texture. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip this step.
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Add Milk And Cheese
- Pour in the milk and stir to combine. Then, gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts completely into the soup. The cheese will give the soup its rich, creamy texture and indulgent flavor.
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Stir In The Sour Cream
- Add the sour cream for an extra level of creaminess and a slight tang. Stir well to combine, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Simmer And Serve
- Let the soup simmer on low heat for another 5 minutes to let all the flavors meld together. Then, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or crackers for the ultimate comfort meal.
Ingredient Insights
- Potatoes: Potatoes are the heart of this soup, contributing both texture and substance. Russet potatoes are ideal because they break down easily when cooked, creating a smooth, thick base for the soup. If you want a chunkier texture, Yukon Golds are also a good option.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar is preferred because it adds depth and a bold flavor that stands out against the creamy base. If you prefer a milder cheese, mild cheddar or even mozzarella could work, but they won’t pack the same punch.
- Sour cream: Not only does sour cream add a lovely tang, but it also contributes to the smooth texture of the soup. If you’re looking for an alternative, Greek yogurt can provide a similar creaminess with an added protein boost.
- Broth: Chicken broth provides a savory, rich backdrop for the potatoes and cheese. If you want to keep the soup vegetarian, swap in vegetable broth. You could also use a low-sodium version to control the salt content.
Expert Tips
- Make it ahead of time: This soup actually gets better after a day or two. If you’re prepping for a gathering or want to make it ahead, it stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a little extra milk if it thickens too much.
- Consistency: The key to a creamy potato soup is the right consistency. If your soup turns out too thick, add more milk or broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered to reduce and thicken.
- Cheese tip: Shredding your own cheese instead of buying pre-shredded helps it melt more smoothly into the soup. Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting properly.
- Vegetarian version: As mentioned, vegetable broth can easily replace chicken broth. You can also swap the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or coconut yogurt.
Recipe Variations
- Bacon Lovers: If you love the smoky flavor of bacon, add crispy crumbled bacon bits on top or sauté the bacon with the onions at the beginning for extra flavor.
- Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Add in extras like cooked and crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, sour cream, and a handful of shredded cheese for a loaded baked potato-inspired twist.
- Spicy Version: For a bit of heat, stir in some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup. You can even sprinkle some hot sauce on top when serving.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Want more veggies? You can throw in some carrots, celery, or corn along with the potatoes to make the soup more hearty and colorful. Just add them when you add the potatoes to the broth.
Final Words
Cheesy potato soup is an easy and delicious dish that brings comfort to your dinner table. It’s versatile enough to adapt to various dietary preferences, and with a few simple ingredients, you can create a rich and indulgent meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare-when in reality, it comes together in less than an hour.
The best part? You can make this recipe your own. Whether you’re adding in extra veggies, experimenting with different cheeses, or tossing in some crispy bacon, this soup offers endless possibilities.