Best Cheesy Potato Soup: A Comforting and Creamy Delight
Cheesy Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food. It’s a creamy, hearty, and soul-warming soup that brings together the rich flavors of cheese and the comforting goodness of potatoes. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying appetizer or a cozy meal, this recipe for the Best Cheesy Potato Soup will surely hit the spot. It’s easy to make and will leave your taste buds singing with joy.
Ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 6 cups peeled and diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Crispy cooked bacon bits
- Sliced green onions
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
Instructions:
Cooking the Potatoes:
- In a large pot, combine the diced potatoes, celery, carrots, and onion. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring that the vegetables are submerged.
- Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Do not drain.
Creating the Cheese Base: 3. In a separate saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the all-purpose flour to create a roux, and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Cook until the mixture thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low, then add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it’s completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
Blending the Soup: 7. Pour the cheese mixture into the pot with the cooked vegetables and broth. Stir to combine.
- Add sour cream to the soup, stirring until it’s fully incorporated.
- Taste the soup and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
Serve and Garnish: 10. Ladle the Cheesy Potato Soup into bowls.
- Garnish with crispy cooked bacon bits, sliced green onions, extra shredded cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
Cook’s Notes:
- To make the soup extra indulgent, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley.
- You can customize this soup by incorporating diced ham, broccoli florets, or even a dash of hot sauce for added flavor.
- If the soup becomes too thick upon reheating, simply add a little more milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Best Cheesy Potato Soup is a comforting classic that’s perfect for any season. It combines the creamy goodness of cheese with the heartiness of potatoes to create a delightful and satisfying dish. Enjoy it on its own or as a side with a crisp salad or warm bread. It’s bound to become a family favorite. 🧀🥔🍲