This Cheesy Potato Soup is a warm, comforting bowl of goodness! It’s packed with creamy cheese and tender potatoes, making it super rich and tasty.
You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up this soup! I love to top mine with crispy bacon and chives. It’s like a hug in a bowl! 😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a wonderful flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using smoked tempeh or mushrooms instead. For a lighter version, turkey bacon works too!
Onion: A medium onion provides sweetness and depth. If you’re sensitive to onions, use shallots or leeks as a milder substitute.
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are great for a creamy texture. For a lower-carb option, cauliflower can be used, just remember to adjust the cooking time.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives rich flavor. Feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for extra creaminess!
Broth: Chicken broth enhances the taste, but vegetable broth is perfect for a vegetarian soup. Homemade broth can elevate the flavor even more!
How Do I Ensure My Soup Is Creamy and Smooth?
Achieving a creamy texture is crucial for this soup. Start by making a roux with butter and flour to thicken. Here’s how:
- Combine butter with flour in the pot, stirring for 1-2 minutes until bubbly.
- Whisk in the chicken broth slowly to prevent lumps; this is key for a smooth consistency.
- When potatoes are tender, use a masher or an immersion blender. Mashing some potatoes creates texture while keeping others intact.
- Finally, slowly stir in the heavy cream and cheese off the heat to prevent curdling.
With these tips, you’ll have a deliciously creamy potato soup to enjoy!
Cheesy Potato Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes (such as russet or Yukon Gold)
- 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
- Additional shredded cheddar and cooked bacon for garnish
- Crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cheesy Potato Soup will take about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 25-30 minutes to cook. In just under an hour, you’ll have a delicious, creamy soup ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s nice and crispy. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon using a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the tasty bacon fat in the pot.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the finely chopped onion to the pot with the bacon fat and sauté until they become translucent and soft, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
3. Make the Roux:
Stir in the butter until it melts. Once melted, sprinkle the flour into the pot and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes. This will help thicken the soup.
4. Add Liquids and Potatoes:
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking to avoid any lumps. Then, add in the diced potatoes, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. This will form the base of your comforting soup.
5. Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, which takes about 15-20 minutes. You want them to be soft enough to mash slightly.
6. Mash Some Potatoes:
Using a potato masher or an immersion blender, partially mash some of the potatoes in the pot to thicken the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. This gives it that cozy, hearty feel!
7. Add Cream and Cheese:
Lower the heat and mix in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with crispy bacon pieces, extra shredded cheddar, and fresh chives. Don’t forget some crusty bread on the side for dipping!
Enjoy your warm, creamy bowl of cheesy potato goodness! Perfect for cozy nights in. 🥔🧀✨
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes for this Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen diced potatoes! Just remember that they may require a bit longer to cook through. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the simmering time until they are tender.
How Can I Make This Soup Gluten-Free?
To make this soup gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. If using cornstarch, mix 1 tablespoon with a little cold water first, then stir it into the soup to thicken.
What Cheese Works Best for This Soup?
Sharp cheddar cheese is fantastic for flavor, but you can also experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different taste and texture. Just make sure they melt well!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the creamy consistency if needed.