This cheesy potato soup is thick, creamy, and perfect for chilly days. Packed with tender potatoes and melted cheese, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
I love how simple it is to whip up! Just cook the potatoes, add some cheese, and blend it all together. It’s my go-to comfort food on rainy afternoons. ☔️🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Bacon adds a delicious smoky flavor. If you want a vegetarian option, you can use smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar taste without the meat.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are great for a fluffy texture, while Yukon Gold gives a creamier feel. You can replace them with sweet potatoes for a different twist.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor. If you’re lactose intolerant, try lactose-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste. I personally love adding a bit of pepper jack for a subtle kick!
Milk/Cream: Heavy cream makes this soup rich, but whole milk works just as well. For a lighter option, consider using low-fat milk or a plant-based milk like almond milk, but make sure it’s unsweetened.
How Do I Make Sure My Soup Has the Perfect Consistency?
Getting the right texture for your cheesy potato soup is key. Start by creating a roux with butter and flour to thicken the soup. Remember to stir constantly; this prevents lumps and creates a smooth base. Once you add the broth, let the potatoes cook until they’re tender before mashing to your desired thickness. I prefer keeping some potato chunks for extra heartiness – it just feels more comforting!
- Cook the bacon until crispy, reserving fat for cooking.
- Sauté onions until translucent, followed by garlic.
- Add butter and flour to create the roux.
- Once the potatoes are cooked, mash some for creaminess, but don’t overdo it if you like texture!
Cheesy Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cheesy potato soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, totaling around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and comforting dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain. Make sure to reserve about 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the pot. This will give the soup delicious flavor!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté it in the bacon fat for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Then, mix in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute. Your kitchen will smell incredible!
3. Create the Roux:
Next, stir in the butter until it melts completely. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This step helps thicken your soup!
4. Add Broth and Potatoes:
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps from the roux. Add the diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.
5. Simmer the Soup:
Let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. You can check by poking a potato with a fork; it should slide right through!
6. Blend the Soup:
Using a potato masher or an immersion blender, gently mash or partially blend the soup. This will give the soup a nice creamy texture while still leaving some potato chunks for heartiness.
7. Stir in Cream and Cheese:
Now it’s time to add the milk or cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth. Remember, heat it gently—avoid bringing it to a full boil at this stage.
8. Season and Serve:
Finally, season your soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve it hot, topped with crumbled bacon, extra shredded cheddar cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh chives for that pop of color!
Enjoy your comforting, creamy cheesy potato soup! Perfect for cozy evenings! 🥣🧀
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes for This Recipe?
While fresh potatoes yield the best texture, you can use frozen diced potatoes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as they may require a bit longer to become tender.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of this soup, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add a sprinkle of smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
Can I Freeze Cheesy Potato Soup?
Yes, this soup can be frozen! Cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Just reheat slowly on the stove after thawing!
