There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of cheesy potato soup to warm your soul and satisfy your hunger. This recipe brings together tender potatoes and sharp cheddar cheese to create a creamy, dreamy dish that feels indulgent but can be made in no time. Imagine the comforting aroma of garlic and onions as they cook down, mixing with the earthy scent of potatoes and the rich, cheesy goodness that melts into every spoonful. Plus, this soup is cream-free, making it a perfect choice for cozy nights when you want to keep it light but still crave that creamy mouthfeel. And the best part? You probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry already. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s as straightforward as it is satisfying!
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Potato Soup (Creamy, Easy, and Cozy)
This cheesy potato soup is everything you want in a cozy dish: creamy, comforting, and ridiculously easy to make! With its rich flavors and smooth texture, it’s perfect for chilly evenings. You’ll appreciate how quickly this soup comes together, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners or lunch meal prep.
Here are a few reasons why this recipe will quickly become a favorite:
- Quick to Make: On the table in about 30 minutes.
- Pantry-Friendly: Uses common ingredients you likely already have.
- Versatile Texture: Creamy without being overly heavy.
- Easily Scalable: Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
- Customizable: Can be adapted for dietary needs and personal preferences.
- Comfort Food: Ideal for chilly days or anytime you need a little warmth.
- Great Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!
Key Ingredients for Cheesy Potato Soup
- Potatoes – Heart of the dish, providing a creamy base and comforting texture.
- Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor.
- Garlic – Brings a savory aroma and rich taste.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth – Lends a depth of flavor; vegetable broth keeps it lighter.
- Milk – Makes the soup creamy without a ton of calories.
- Shredded Cheese – Hello, cheesy goodness! Choose cheddar for a classic taste.
- Salt and Pepper – The essentials for seasoning to taste.
- Chopped Green Onions or Parsley – Adds a fresh touch and color for garnish.
Ready to cook? See the recipe card for exact measurements below.
How to Make Cheesy Potato Soup
Phase 1 – Prep (100 words)
- Peel and Dice Potatoes: Chop your potatoes into small, even pieces for even cooking.
- Chop Onion and Mince Garlic: Get your onion and garlic ready to add flavor.
- Gather Other Ingredients: Measure out your broth, milk, and cheese for easier assembly.
Phase 2 – Cook/Assemble (100 words)
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Add Potatoes and Broth: Toss in your diced potatoes and pour in the broth. Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer.
- Blend and Add Milk and Cheese: Once potatoes are tender, use an immersion blender until smooth. Stir in the milk and cheese until melted.
Phase 3 – Serve (80 words)
- Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper as needed; give it a good stir.
- Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with chopped green onions or parsley.
- Enjoy: Serve hot, grab a spoon, and dive into creamy goodness!
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Cheese Swap: For a twist, try using gouda or pepper jack instead of cheddar.
- Technique Improvement: Blend only half the soup for a chunkier texture; leave the other half smooth.
- Storage Tip: Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Add a Kick: Toss in some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra zing!
- Quick Cleanup: Use a slow cooker to make this soup; set it and forget it!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Overcooking Potatoes: If you boil the potatoes too long, they can turn mushy. Aim for just tender, making sure they still hold their shape when blended.
2. Too Much Cheese: While cheesy is great, overdoing it can make the soup grainy. Stick to the recommended amount for a smooth finish.
3. Skipping Seasoning: Don’t forget salt and pepper! These enhance flavors significantly, so don’t skip them.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free broth.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute with almond milk and dairy-free cheese.
- Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Herbal: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
- Cooking Methods: This soup works well on the stovetop or in an Instant Pot.
How to Serve Cheesy Potato Soup
Best Pairings: A warm, buttery baguette or a light salad is the perfect complement.
Toppings & Garnishes: Consider sour cream, crispy bacon bits, or croutons for added texture.
Drink Pairing: A light white wine or sparkling water rounds out this cozy meal beautifully.
Make Ahead & Storage
Can I Meal Prep This?
Yes! This soup is great for meal prep. Just store individual portions in the fridge and reheat as needed.
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Before storing, let it cool to room temperature.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup for about 3 months. Note that the texture might change slightly when thawed, but the flavor will still be delightful.
Reheating
Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals and stir in between.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower? Absolutely! Just add it alongside the potatoes and cook until tender.
How to make it extra creamy without cream? Blend in more cooked potatoes or use a little extra milk to achieve that creamy texture.
Can I double it? Sure! Just double all the ingredients, but keep an eye on cooking times.
How to fix a too-thick soup? Stir in more broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Transform your next meal with this delicious Cheesy Potato Soup that’s creamy and cozy without any heavy cream. You won’t regret trying this comforting dish that’s simple enough for a weeknight yet delicious enough for company! If you enjoyed making this recipe, feel free to rate and comment below or explore more comforting soups on our site!
Cheesy Potato Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 large Potatoes Peeled and diced
- 1 medium Onion Chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic Mince
- 4 cups Chicken or Vegetable Broth Use vegetable broth for a lighter version
- 1 cup Milk For creaminess
- 2 cups Shredded Cheese Sharp cheddar recommended
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- 1/4 cup Chopped Green Onions or Parsley For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Peel and dice the potatoes into small, even pieces.
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Gather the broth, milk, and cheese for easier assembly.
Cooking
- In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat, add onion, and cook until translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Toss in the diced potatoes and pour in the broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Once potatoes are tender, use an immersion blender until smooth. Stir in the milk and cheese until melted.
Serving
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions or parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy!