
Creamy Potato Soup with Cheese: A Comforting Bowl of Goodness
Warm, creamy, and loaded with flavor, this potato soup with cheese is the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave something hearty and satisfying, this recipe is simple to make and absolutely delicious.
Ingredients for Creamy Potato Soup
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cups (720ml) chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups (480ml) milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
- Optional: Crumbled bacon or green onions for topping
How to Make Creamy Potato Soup
Step 1: Cook the Vegetables
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the diced potatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 2: Make the Cream Base
- In a small saucepan, whisk together the flour and 1/2 cup of milk until smooth. Cook over medium heat for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually stir the roux into the soup, followed by the remaining milk and heavy cream. Stir continuously to avoid lumps.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
- Remove the soup from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 4: Blend (Optional)
- For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks of potato for texture.
- Alternatively, transfer half the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
Step 5: Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheese, parsley, and optional toppings like crumbled bacon or green onions.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and Rich: The combination of milk, cream, and melted cheese creates a velvety soup.
- Hearty and Filling: Potatoes and cheese make this a satisfying main dish.
- Customizable: Add bacon, green onions, or your favorite spices for a unique twist.
Tips for the Best Potato Soup
- Cut Evenly: Dice the potatoes into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Use Fresh Cheese: Grate your cheese at home for the best melt and flavor.
- Thicker Soup: For a thicker consistency, add extra flour to the roux or reduce the broth slightly.
FAQs About Creamy Potato Soup
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally.
2. Can I freeze potato soup?
While you can freeze it, the dairy may separate when reheated. To avoid this, freeze the soup before adding the cream and cheese. Add them after reheating.
3. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the bacon topping.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This creamy potato soup with cheese is comfort in a bowl. Its rich, velvety texture and bold flavors make it a family favorite that’s perfect for any occasion.
Make this recipe today and enjoy a bowl of warmth and happiness. Don’t forget to share your photos and feedback in the comments below—happy cooking!