There’s something magical about cheesy potato soup that makes it a go-to comfort food for chilly evenings. Picture this: velvety smooth potatoes swimming in a rich, creamy broth, topped with crispy bacon bits and a sprinkle of green onions. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make you feel like a culinary wizard, conjuring warmth and joy with every spoonful.
This delightful dish isn’t just about comfort; it’s a memory-maker too. I recall the first time I made cheesy potato soup during a snowstorm. My friends huddled around the table, their laughter filling the air as they savored each bite. This soup is perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with loved ones, promising to warm hearts and bellies alike.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cheesy potato soup is incredibly easy to whip up, making weeknight meals a breeze
- Its creamy texture and rich flavors will have everyone asking for seconds
- The bright toppings add visual appeal, making every bowl a feast for the eyes
- Perfect as an entrée or side dish, it fits any occasion effortlessly
I still remember the delighted faces of my friends when they tasted my cheesy potato soup for the first time; it was an instant hit!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Potatoes: Use starchy varieties like Russets for that fluffy texture that absorbs all the creamy goodness.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar to bring out bold flavors that make your taste buds dance.
Onion: A sweet onion adds depth and sweetness; don’t skimp on this aromatic delight!
Garlic: Fresh garlic elevates the flavor profile; use four cloves for maximum aroma.
Bacon: Cooked until crispy, bacon brings a smoky crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels while enhancing savory flavors.
Heavy Cream: For an ultra-creamy finish, heavy cream provides richness that’s simply irresistible.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions add freshness and color to your bowl; they’re your finishing touch!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Chop your onion and mince garlic to unleash those aromatic flavors right away.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, cook diced bacon until crispy. Remove bacon and sauté onions in the rendered fat until translucent and fragrant.
Add Potatoes and Broth: Toss in diced potatoes along with minced garlic and pour in chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, cooking until potatoes are tender—about 15 minutes should do!
Mash It Up: Once cooked, use a potato masher or immersion blender to achieve your desired consistency—smooth or chunky? You choose!
Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in heavy cream and sharp cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Taste test here; adjust seasoning if necessary!
Serve It Up: Ladle into bowls, topping each with crispy bacon bits and chopped green onions. Enjoy while it’s warm—you won’t want to wait long before diving in!
This cheesy potato soup is not only delicious but also straightforward enough even for novice cooks. Feel free to customize it by adding veggies or spices according to your taste!
You Must Know
- Cheesy potato soup is not just hearty; it’s a hug in a bowl
- The creamy texture and rich flavor make it the ultimate comfort food
- Perfect for chilly nights, this soup warms both your belly and your soul with every spoonful
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add potatoes, broth, and seasonings. Let it simmer until potatoes are tender, then blend to achieve that velvety texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes or add crispy bacon bits for an extra crunch. A sprinkle of chives on top adds freshness and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To elevate cheesy potato soup, consider using freshly grated cheese for richer flavor
- Avoid overcooking the potatoes to maintain their texture
- Always taste before serving to adjust seasoning according to your preference
Sometimes, my friends are so smitten with this soup that they forget their manners and start slurping! It always brings smiles around the table during cozy gatherings.
FAQ
Can I make cheesy potato soup vegan?
Absolutely! Use plant-based cheese and substitute cream with coconut milk for creaminess.
What type of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar adds a robust flavor, but feel free to mix in your favorites!
How can I thicken my soup if it’s too thin?
Adding a cornstarch slurry or blending more potatoes will help thicken the consistency nicely.
Cheesy Potato Soup
Cheesy potato soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings. This creamy, velvety soup features tender potatoes blended with sharp cheddar cheese and crispy bacon, topped with fresh green onions for a pop of color. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, it warms both hearts and bellies with every spoonful. Perfect for cozy nights or gatherings, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 large Russet potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled and diced
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 medium sweet onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients: Peel and dice the potatoes; chop the onion; mince the garlic.
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove bacon and sauté onions in the rendered fat until translucent.
- Add potatoes and broth: Stir in diced potatoes and minced garlic; pour in chicken broth. Simmer until potatoes are tender (about 15 minutes).
- Mash it up: Use a potato masher or immersion blender to achieve your desired texture.
- Add cream and cheese: Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted and combined. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with crispy bacon bits and chopped green onions.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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