Description
Cheesy Potato Soup
Ingredients
4 large russet potatoes (peeled and diced)
6 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
1 small onion (chopped)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup heavy cream (or milk)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper to taste
2 green onions (sliced, for garnish)
Directions
Cook bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove and crumble.
Add butter to the pot. Sauté onion and garlic until softened.
Add diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
In a small bowl, mix flour with a bit of broth to make a slurry. Stir it into the soup to thicken.
Add cheddar cheese and heavy cream. Stir until melted and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Top with crumbled bacon, green onions, and extra cheese before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 450 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect soup every time. First, ensure your potatoes are diced evenly (about 1/2-inch cubes) so they cook uniformly. After cooking and removing the bacon, add the butter to the pot with the rendered bacon fat for extra flavor. When sautéing the onion and garlic, cook until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes. For the slurry, whisk the 2 tablespoons of flour with 1/4 cup of cooled broth or water until completely smooth before stirring it into the simmering soup. This prevents lumps. Finally, when adding the cheese, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar gradually to ensure a smooth, velvety melt.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and creamy soup is a meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a side salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich. For a heartier meal, consider adding toppings like sour cream, extra crispy bacon bits, or diced ham. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or as a starter for a holiday meal.
How-to Summary
To make Cheesy Potato Soup: Cook and crumble bacon. Sauté onion and garlic in the pot. Add diced potatoes and broth, then simmer until tender. Create a flour slurry to thicken the soup. Off the heat, stir in shredded cheddar and cream until melted. Season and garnish with bacon and green onions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, but for best texture, store it before adding the cream and cheese. Reheat gently, then stir in the dairy components.
How can I make this soup thicker? For a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the softened potatoes against the side of the pot with a fork before adding the slurry.
Can I use a different type of potato? Yukon Gold potatoes are an excellent substitute. They have a buttery flavor and creamy texture that blends beautifully.
How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, as microwaving can cause the dairy to separate.
Is there a way to make this soup in a slow cooker? Absolutely. Sauté the aromatics first, then add everything except the cheese, cream, and slurry to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Before serving, stir in the slurry, cheese, and cream.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding cheese while the soup is at a rolling boil, which can cause it to become grainy and separate.
- Using pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting.
- Not creating a smooth slurry, leading to flour lumps in the finished soup.
- Overcooking the potatoes until they become mushy and fall apart.
- Forgetting to season in layers. Taste and adjust seasoning after adding the broth and again after adding the cheese.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Potato Soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining simple ingredients into a rich, satisfying dish. With its crispy bacon garnish and velvety cheese base, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality soup right in your own kitchen. Enjoy the cozy, delicious results!