Name: Creamy Potato Cheese Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 medium Russet potatoes, diced; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; Salt and pepper to taste; ½ cup sour cream (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

The aroma of potato cheese soup wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in a warm, creamy hug. Imagine spooning this velvety delight, where every bite is a comforting blend of rich flavors and hearty potatoes.

As you savor its cheesy goodness, memories flood back of chilly evenings spent gathered with friends, sharing stories and laughter over bowls of this delectable soup. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together and warms the heart.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This potato cheese soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
The rich flavors create a cozy ambiance that everyone will love
Its creamy texture and delightful cheesiness make it visually appealing in any bowl
Enjoy it as a main dish or a side; it’s versatile for any meal!

I still remember the first time I made this potato cheese soup for my family; their delighted faces were priceless!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets for a creamy texture; they break down nicely while cooking.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Choose a good quality cheddar for maximum flavor; it melts beautifully into the soup.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; sauté until translucent to enhance the flavor base.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the aroma and taste; don’t skimp on this aromatic gem!
Vegetable Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control salt levels; it acts as the flavorful base.
Heavy Cream: For that ultra-creamy finish, heavy cream is essential; substitute with half-and-half if needed.
Butter: A pat of butter adds richness to sautéed vegetables; use unsalted butter for better flavor control.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all those lovely flavors; adjust according to your taste.
Sour Cream (optional): A dollop on top adds tanginess and creaminess; highly recommended for serving!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until they turn translucent, releasing their sweet aroma. Toss in minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Add Potatoes and Broth: Stir in diced potatoes along with vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to simmer. Cover and cook until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Mash for Creaminess: Once potatoes are soft, use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash some of them. This releases starches for a creamier texture while leaving some chunks intact for heartiness.

Stir in Cheese and Cream: Gradually add shredded sharp cheddar cheese while stirring continuously so it melts evenly. Then pour in heavy cream and mix until fully combined and heated through.

Seasoning Time!: Taste your potato cheese soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Feel free to sprinkle in herbs like thyme or chives if you’re feeling fancy!

Serve and Enjoy!: Ladle your piping hot soup into bowls. Top each serving with a dollop of sour cream if desired, along with freshly chopped chives or parsley for garnish.

Now sit back, relax, and enjoy your delightful creation! This potato cheese soup not only warms your body but also adds comfort to your soul with every bite.

You Must Know

Potato cheese soup is creamy and comforting, perfect for chilly evenings
The combination of potatoes and cheese creates a delightful texture and flavor, making it a family favorite
Enjoy it fresh or store it for quick meals later

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic before adding potatoes for enhanced flavor. Simmer until tender, then blend until smooth for that perfect creamy consistency.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out regular potatoes for sweet potatoes or add spices like paprika for extra zing. Experiment with different cheeses to create your signature version.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover potato cheese soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain its creamy texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To ensure a smooth soup, blend your mixture in batches if necessary
Using freshly grated cheese gives a better melt than pre-packaged options
Try adding crispy bacon bits or chives as tasty toppings for extra crunch and flavor!

It’s funny how my first attempt at making potato cheese soup turned into a kitchen disaster—let’s just say blending hot liquids isn’t always the best idea!

FAQ

What type of cheese works best in potato cheese soup?

Sharp cheddar cheese adds great flavor, but feel free to mix in your favorites.

Can I make potato cheese soup vegan?

Absolutely! Use vegan cheese and plant-based milk for a delicious dairy-free version.

How do I thicken potato cheese soup?

Add more potatoes or a cornstarch slurry to achieve your desired consistency.