Cheese potato soup is the ultimate comfort food—warm, creamy, and packed with cheesy goodness. Whether you’re looking for a hearty lunch or a cozy dinner, this soup is easy to make and sure to satisfy. If you’ve ever wondered how do you make cheese potato soup?, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into a simple, step-by-step recipe that will have you enjoying a bowl of cheesy potato soup in under an hour.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Cheese Potato Soup
Here’s a list of the basic ingredients you’ll need to create this delicious soup:
– Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work best), peeled and diced
– Butter
– Onion (Vidalia or yellow onion), chopped
– Garlic cloves, minced
– Chicken or vegetable broth
– Milk or cream (for richness)
– Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (extra sharp gives the best flavor)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional garnishes: crumbled bacon, chopped chives, or green onions
These ingredients are simple, but together they create a rich and creamy soup that’s full of flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Cheese Potato Soup
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Start by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 to 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. This base builds the soup’s flavor.
2. Cook the Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes to the pot along with the broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Blend for Creaminess (Optional)
For an ultra-smooth texture, remove about one cup of the potato and broth mixture and blend it until smooth. Then stir this puree back into the pot. This step is optional but adds a lovely creamy consistency without needing to add extra cream.
4. Add Milk and Cheese
Stir in milk or cream and heat the soup gently over medium heat. Avoid boiling once the dairy is added to prevent curdling. Then gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated. This creates the rich, cheesy base that makes this soup so irresistible.
5. Season and Garnish
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra touch of flavor and texture, top your soup with crumbled bacon and chopped chives or green onions. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting warmth of this cheesy delight.
Tips for the Best Cheese Potato Soup
– Choose the right potatoes: Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are ideal because they break down nicely and create a creamy texture.
– Use sharp cheddar cheese: It melts well and gives a bold, cheesy flavor.
– Don’t boil after adding cheese: Keep the heat low to avoid curdling the cheese.
– Add mix-ins: For variety, try adding steamed broccoli, peas, or cooked mushrooms.
– Make it loaded: Add bacon, sour cream, or even shredded chicken for a heartier meal.
Variations to Try
– Three-cheese blend: Mix cheddar with Gruyere and cream cheese for a richer flavor.
– Vegetarian version: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
– Slow cooker method: Combine ingredients and cook on low for 4-6 hours for an easy hands-off meal.
This recipe is flexible and forgiving, making it perfect for customizing to your taste.
Cheese potato soup is a cozy, satisfying dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy a warm bowl of cheesy comfort anytime. So, next time you’re craving something hearty and delicious, remember this easy recipe and bring a little comfort to your table.