Embrace the warmth and richness of a classic comfort dish with our indulgent Potato and Cheddar Soup recipe! This creamy soup is a delightful blend of tender potatoes, savory ham, and sharp cheddar cheese, creating a comforting bowl that’s perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with loved ones. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So, grab your ingredients and prepare to enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience with this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients:
Meat:
- 1 cup Ham
Produce:
- 1 Onion, small
- 2 cups Red potatoes
Baking & Spices:
- 3 tbsp All-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp White sugar
Dairy:
- 3 tbsp Butter
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese
- 3 cups Milk
Liquids:
- 2 cups Water
Instructions:
- Start by dicing the ham, onion, and red potatoes into small, bite-sized pieces.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and butter, stirring continuously to create a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in the milk and water, stirring constantly to combine with the roux and prevent lumps from forming.
- Add the diced potatoes and ham to the pot, along with salt, pepper, and white sugar for seasoning.
- Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and cooked through.
- Once the potatoes are fork-tender, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and incorporated into the soup.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt and pepper if desired.
- Serve the Potato and Cheddar Soup hot, garnished with additional shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or crispy bacon bits if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For added flavor, you can sauté the ham in a separate pan until lightly browned before adding it to the soup.
- Feel free to customize the soup with additional ingredients such as diced carrots, celery, or leeks for added texture and flavor.
- For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup before adding the cheese.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use other types of cheese in this soup?
A: Absolutely! While cheddar cheese adds a rich and sharp flavor to the soup, you can experiment with other cheeses such as Gruyere, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
Q: Is this soup freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, Potato and Cheddar Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bags. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove.
Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can omit the ham to make a vegetarian version of this soup. Simply increase the amount of vegetables or add extra seasoning to enhance the flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Substitute the potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lower-carb option.
- Use heavy cream instead of milk to reduce the carb content while adding richness to the soup.
- Replace the white sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia.
Low-Carb Version:
- Reduce the amount of potatoes or omit them altogether to lower the carb content of the soup.
- Use almond flour or xanthan gum as a thickener instead of all-purpose flour.
- Choose a lower-carb cheese such as mozzarella or provolone for a reduced-carb option.
In conclusion, Potato and Cheddar Soup is the epitome of creamy comfort, offering a satisfying blend of flavors and textures in every spoonful. With its hearty potatoes, savory ham, and melty cheddar cheese, this soup is sure to warm both body and soul on even the chilliest of days. Whether enjoyed as a comforting weeknight dinner or served as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at gatherings, Potato and Cheddar Soup is a versatile and delicious dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, whip up a batch of this irresistible soup, and savor the cozy goodness with every delicious bite!
