Cheesy Potato Soup Recipe

The Ultimate Comfort Food for Cheese Lovers!

When you think of comfort food, cheesy potato soup immediately comes to mind. This rich and creamy soup combines tender potatoes with the gooey goodness of melted cheese to create a warm, savory bowl that’s both satisfying and indulgent. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you're craving something hearty, this cheesy potato soup will quickly become a go-to in your recipe rotation. Keep reading to discover how to make the best cheesy potato soup, complete with helpful tips, substitutions, and delicious variations!

What is Cheesy Potato Soup?

Cheesy potato soup is a creamy, hearty soup that combines soft, starchy potatoes with sharp, melty cheese for a rich, comforting flavor. This soup is typically made with broth, milk, cream, and plenty of cheddar cheese, along with onions, garlic, and sometimes bacon for extra flavor. It’s a popular cold-weather dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or served as a starter for a special meal. The combination of tender potatoes and creamy cheese makes this soup irresistible and incredibly comforting.

Ingredients List for Cheesy Potato Soup

Gather these ingredients to make your cheesy potato soup:

• 5 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
• Chopped green onions or chives, for garnish
• Shredded cheese, for garnish

Ingredients List for Cheesy Potato Soup (Optional Add-Ons)

Feel free to add extra ingredients to customize your cheesy potato soup:

• Crumbled sausage or ham for extra protein
• A dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick
• Diced carrots or celery to add more texture and flavor
• A splash of white wine to deglaze the pan and enhance the flavor
• Chopped spinach or kale for added greens
• Sour cream for a tangy garnish

Substitutions and Variations

The versatility of cheesy potato soup allows you to customize it to your taste and dietary preferences. Here are a few popular substitutions and variations:

• Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk) and dairy-free cheese. You can also substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan butter.
• Gluten-Free Option: Replace the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour to thicken the soup.
• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the bacon. Add extra vegetables like carrots, celery, or mushrooms to give the soup more depth.
• Spicy Cheesy Potato Soup: Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce for a spicy variation that brings a little heat.
• Loaded Cheesy Potato Soup: Turn this soup into a loaded version by adding crumbled bacon, sour cream, extra cheese, and green onions on top.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making cheesy potato soup is straightforward and simple. Here’s how to prepare it:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Peel and dice the potatoes, chop the onion, and mince the garlic. Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy, then drain on a paper towel-lined plate and set aside. If you’re not using bacon, skip to the next step.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
3. Add the Potatoes and Broth: Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir them with the onion and garlic mixture. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring the potatoes are fully submerged. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce: While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella (if using), and whisk until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.
5. Blend the Soup (Optional): If you prefer a smooth, creamy soup, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until it reaches your desired consistency. For a chunkier soup, blend only half of the soup or skip this step entirely.
6. Combine the Cheese Sauce with the Soup: Once the potatoes are tender, stir the cheese sauce into the pot. Add the heavy cream and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
7. Add the Bacon (Optional): If you're adding bacon, stir in half of the crumbled bacon at this stage, reserving the rest for garnish.
8. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions or chives. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

How to Cook Cheesy Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick recap of how to make cheesy potato soup:

1. Sauté onions and garlic to build flavor.
2. Add potatoes and broth, then simmer until the potatoes are tender.
3. Make a cheese sauce with butter, flour, milk, and lots of cheese.
4. Blend the soup (optional) for a smoother texture.
5. Combine the cheese sauce with the potato mixture and let it simmer.
6. Garnish with bacon, cheese, and green onions for extra flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make sure your cheesy potato soup turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

• Overcooking the Potatoes: Potatoes should be tender but not mushy. Overcooking them can cause them to break down too much, leading to a less creamy soup.
• Curdling the Cheese: Add the cheese sauce slowly to the soup and avoid overheating it after the cheese is added, as high heat can cause the cheese to curdle.
• Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly. For the best results, grate your own cheese from a block.
• Underseasoning: Potatoes absorb a lot of salt, so be sure to season the soup generously with salt and pepper. Taste as you go and adjust as needed.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A beautifully presented bowl of cheesy potato soup can elevate the entire meal. Here are some tips for serving and presentation:

• Top with Garnishes: Add crumbled bacon, extra shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh green onions or chives for a vibrant presentation.
• Serve with Bread: Cheesy potato soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple dinner roll for dipping.
• Swirl of Cream: For an elegant touch, drizzle a swirl of cream on top of the soup before serving.
• Use Bread Bowls: For a fun presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a hearty, rustic look.

How to Serve Cheesy Potato Soup

There are plenty of ways to serve this rich, cheesy soup:

• As a Main Course: Serve it in large bowls with generous toppings and a side of bread or salad to round out the meal.
• As a Starter: Offer smaller portions before the main course, especially for a dinner party or family gathering.
• For Meal Prep: Cheesy potato soup stores well and can be made ahead of time for easy, comforting lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Potato Soup

Make your cheesy potato soup stand out with these creative presentation ideas:

• Mini Soup Cups: Serve the soup in small cups or bowls for a party or appetizer.
• Family-Style Serving: Bring the soup to the table in a large Dutch oven or pot, and let everyone help themselves. Set up a toppings bar with different garnishes like cheese, bacon, and green onions.
• Individual Crocks: Serve the soup in individual oven-safe crocks and broil the cheese on top for a melty, bubbly finish.

Cheesy Potato Soup Recipe Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your cheesy potato soup turns out perfectly:

• Choose starchy potatoes like russets for a creamy texture. Yukon golds also work well for a slightly creamier consistency.
• Shred your own cheese for the smoothest melting. Pre-shredded cheese contains additives that can make your soup gritty.
• Season throughout: Add salt and pepper at different stages of cooking to build layers of flavor.
• Thicken the soup naturally: If your soup is too thin, blend more potatoes to thicken it without needing to add more flour or starch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I freeze cheesy potato soup?
Yes, you can freeze cheesy potato soup, but be aware that the texture may change slightly upon reheating due to the dairy. To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring frequently, and add extra cream or broth if necessary.

What type of potatoes are best for cheesy potato soup?
Starchy potatoes like russets are best because they break down easily and create a creamy texture. Yukon gold potatoes also work well for a slightly creamier soup.

Can I make cheesy potato soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Cheesy potato soup can be made a day or two ahead and reheated on the stovetop. The flavors often improve after sitting overnight.

How do I prevent the cheese from curdling?
To prevent curdling, avoid adding the cheese to boiling liquid. Always add cheese to a simmering (not boiling) soup and stir constantly as you incorporate it. Also, adding cheese in batches and using low heat can help ensure smooth melting.

Conclusion

Cheesy potato soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy potatoes and melty cheese for a rich and satisfying meal. Whether you're making it for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or prepping meals for the week, this soup is sure to be a hit. Customize it with your favorite toppings, add-ins, or spices to make it your own. With this foolproof recipe and helpful tips, you’ll have a delicious bowl of cheesy potato soup in no time. Enjoy!

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