This Cheesy Potato Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Creamy and cheesy, it’s packed with tender potatoes and just the right spices to make it super tasty.
I love whipping this up on a chilly day. Just gather your ingredients, simmer, and enjoy. A sprinkle of green onions on top makes it extra fun! 🥔🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: I love using bacon for flavor, but you can leave it out for a vegetarian version or substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are great in this soup for their creaminess. If you prefer, Yukon Golds are also delicious and hold their shape well.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice kick, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for a spicy twist. Dairy-free cheese can work too!
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and tang. If you’re avoiding dairy, try substituting with a plant-based yogurt or cashew cream.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Creamy Texture?
To achieve that smooth, creamy soup, pay attention when you add the milk and flour mixture. Whisking the flour with the milk ahead of time helps avoid lumps.
- After adding the milk mix, stir constantly over medium heat. This prevents sticking or burning.
- Let it cook until the soup is thickened slightly. It should coat the back of a spoon!
- Adding cheese off the heat helps it melt beautifully without separating.
Enjoy making this soup—it’s simple and so comforting on a chilly day!
Cheesy Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes (about 1-inch cubes)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For Garnishing:
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Chives for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cheesy Potato Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to cook. Overall, you’ll need around 40 minutes to enjoy this delicious and cozy soup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy. Once it’s done, take it out and place it on paper towels to drain the grease but leave the bacon fat in the pot. It adds great flavor!
2. Sauté the Veggies:
Add the chopped onion to the pot with the bacon fat. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells wonderful!
3. Cook the Potatoes:
Now, add your diced potatoes, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and the optional smoked paprika to the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Keep cooking until the potatoes are tender, which will take about 15-20 minutes.
4. Thicken the Soup:
In a small bowl, whisk the flour into the milk until it’s smooth. Gradually pour this mixture into the pot while stirring constantly. This helps to avoid any lumps. Keep cooking and stirring until the soup starts to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add Cheese and Sour Cream:
Take the pot off the heat, then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream until everything is melted together and creamy. Yum!
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give your soup a taste. If you think it needs more seasoning, feel free to add a little extra salt and pepper until it’s just right!
7. Serve Up:
Pour the soup into bowls and top with the crispy bacon, chopped green onions, and a sprinkle of fresh chives. Enjoy your delicious, hearty Cheesy Potato Soup!
This soup is perfect for warming up on chilly days. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is a favorite for its flavor, you can use Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a blend of cheeses for a different taste. Just make sure they melt well!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can substitute olive oil or butter for a bit of added flavor during the sauté stage.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
