Cheddar Cheese Potato Soup Recipe

There’s something incredibly cozy and satisfying about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s loaded with creamy potatoes and sharp, melty cheese. This Cheddar Cheese Potato Soup Recipe is one I keep coming back to—it’s simple, comforting, and absolutely delicious. Trust me, once you try this soup, it’ll become one of your go-to recipes for chilly evenings or when you just want a little kitchen hug in a bowl.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient in this Cheddar Cheese Potato Soup Recipe serves a purpose, coming together to create that rich, comforting flavor profile we all crave. When shopping, I recommend choosing fresh, high-quality cheese and potatoes for the best result.

• Butter: Adds richness and enhances the flavor base when sautéing onions and garlic.
• Vidalia onion: Sweet and mild, it builds a gentle flavor foundation without overpowering the soup.
• Garlic: Just enough to punch up the aroma and taste without being too sharp.
• Yukon Gold potatoes: They break down nicely when cooked, lending natural creaminess without needing a ton of heavy cream.
• Chicken broth: Provides savory depth; vegetable broth works fine if you prefer a vegetarian twist.
• Milk: Lightens the texture and brings it all together into a creamy finish.
• Extra sharp cheddar cheese: The star of the show that gives this soup its signature bold flavor.
• Crumbled bacon & chives: Optional garnishes that add smoky crunch and fresh color.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love how this Cheddar Cheese Potato Soup Recipe is so flexible—you can easily add your own twist depending on what you’re craving or what’s in your fridge. I often like adding a little heat or mixing up the garnishes to keep it interesting.

• Variation: Sometimes I stir in a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to give the soup a gentle smoky warmth that’s irresistible.
• Vegetarian version: Swapping chicken broth for vegetable broth works perfectly without compromising flavor.
• Make it lighter: Use part-skim milk if you’re watching calories but still want that creamy goodness.
• Add more veggies: Throw in some diced carrots or celery during the onion sauté step for extra nutrition and texture.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Cheddar Cheese Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Start with a Flavorful Base

First, melt that tablespoon of butter over medium heat in a sturdy saucepan. Once melted, toss in your chopped Vidalia onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it gets soft and translucent—that sweet aroma will fill your kitchen and make you smile every time. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for just 2 more minutes, stirring constantly so it doesn’t burn. This step is crucial because it builds the depth of flavor your soup needs before adding the potatoes and broth.

Step 2: Cook Potatoes until Tender

Next, add the peeled and chopped Yukon Gold potatoes along with the chicken broth (or veggie broth). Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer gently for about 12 to 14 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Don’t rush this step—perfectly cooked potatoes are what make the soup creamy without relying on heavy creams or thickeners.

Step 3: Blend to Creamy Perfection

Once your potatoes are soft, scoop out about one cup of the mixture and carefully blend it until smooth. This little trick is a game changer—it thickens the soup naturally while leaving most of the chunks intact for a lovely texture. Return the blended potato mix to the saucepan and stir in your cup of milk. Warm the soup gently over medium heat until hot, but be sure not to boil it here or the milk might curdle.

Step 4: Melt in the Cheese and Serve

Stir in one cup of shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese and mix until melted and creamy. Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of cheese on top, and garnish with crumbled bacon and fresh chives if you want to get fancy. Honestly, even without the garnish, this soup shines.

How to Serve Cheddar Cheese Potato Soup Recipe

Garnishes

I’m a sucker for crumbled crispy bacon and bright green chives on this soup—it adds a welcome crunch and fresh zip that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base. Sometimes I swap chives for green onions or fresh parsley, depending on what’s handy. A little cracked black pepper on top is always a must for me.

Side Dishes

Pair this soup with crusty bread, garlic toast, or even a simple side salad to balance the richness. When I want a heartier meal, I throw together a quick grilled cheese sandwich and dunk it right into the soup—totally indulgent and delicious.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special gathering, try serving this soup in mini bread bowls or hollowed-out squash for a rustic, cozy look. You can also swirl in a drizzle of sour cream or a sprinkle of smoked paprika before serving to impress your guests with minimal extra effort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When storing, it’s best to keep the cheese garnish separate and add it fresh when reheating to keep that melty texture nice and vibrant.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, but I recommend skipping the bacon and fresh garnishes before freezing. Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. When thawing, let it thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid microwaving on high to reduce the chances of curdling or cheese separation. If the soup thickens too much while reheating, just thin it out with a splash of milk or broth.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cheddar Cheese Potato Soup Recipe feels like a warm embrace on a chilly day, and it’s one of those dishes that brings people together around the table. I’ve made it countless times for family and friends, and it never fails to get compliments. I encourage you to give this a try—you’ll find it’s not only easy to prepare but downright addictive. Once you master it, feel free to personalize it to your heart’s content and make it your own cozy classic.

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