Hearty Potato-Cheddar Soup

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 6
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If you're on the hunt for a cozy, comforting soup that warms you from the inside out, this Hearty Potato-Cheddar Soup is just what you need. Packed with creamy potatoes and sharp cheddar, it's the perfect meal for chilly days when you're craving something rich and satisfying.

Ingredients for Hearty Potato-Cheddar Soup

Russet potatoes are the star, providing the soup's creamy base. Their starchy nature is perfect for thickening. Onion and garlic build a savory foundation with their aromatic goodness. Chicken broth adds depth and enhances flavor, while sharp cheddar cheese brings in that irresistible tangy creaminess. Whole milk is used to make the soup rich and smooth. The butter and flour form a roux, thickening the soup to the perfect consistency. Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning, and scallions and sour cream add a fresh, vibrant finish.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a thicker soup, use less broth or add more flour to the roux.
  • If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.
  • Want a smoky twist? Add a pinch of smoked paprika.

Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich. It's also delightful with a sprinkle of bacon bits for those who enjoy a bit of smokiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but it's best to freeze before adding the cheese and milk. Add them after reheating.

Hearty Potato-Cheddar Soup Recipe Walkthrough

Start by melting your butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once it's bubbling, toss in your diced onion and garlic. Cook them until the onion turns translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. This is where you begin to build those delicious flavors.

Next, sprinkle in the flour to create a roux. Stir it around, letting it cook for about 2 minutes. This step is crucial as it thickens the soup later.

Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to blend it smoothly with the roux. No lumps here! Once combined, add your cubed potatoes and bring the mixture to a boil.

Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the potatoes are tender enough to fall apart with a fork.

Puree the soup with an immersion blender until it's velvety smooth — or leave a few chunks if you prefer some texture. Stir in the cheddar cheese and milk, letting the cheese melt completely into the soup.

Finally, season with salt and pepper to your liking. Serve hot, adorned with sliced scallions and a dollop of sour cream for that touch of freshness.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to make in under an hour.
  • Rich, cheesy flavor that hits the spot.
  • Perfect for leftovers — tastes even better the next day!
  • Customizable with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup whole milk
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup scallions, sliced for garnish
1/4 cup sour cream for garnish

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until onion is translucent.
2. Stir in flour to create a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes.
3. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking to combine with the roux.
4. Add cubed potatoes to the pot, bringing the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
6. Puree the soup using an immersion blender until smooth.
7. Stir in cheddar cheese and milk, allowing the cheese to melt completely.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with scallions and a dollop of sour cream.

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