Cheesy potato soup is comfort food at its most indulgent. It’s the kind of soup that feels like a warm hug—rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying from the very first spoonful. For many families, cheesy potato soup is tied to cold evenings, cozy kitchens, and meals that slow everyone down just enough to enjoy the moment. The combination of tender potatoes and melted cheese creates a texture that’s both hearty and silky, while the familiar flavors make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This soup doesn’t aim to be light or fancy; it aims to be comforting, filling, and unforgettable. When done right, cheesy potato soup becomes more than dinner—it becomes a favorite tradition.
Cheesy Potato Soup
Equipment
- Large Pot
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 potatoes peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk or light cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic and cook until soft and fragrant.
- Add potatoes and broth, then bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Blend partially, then stir in milk and cheese until melted.
Notes
Nutrition
How to Make Cheesy Potato Soup Step by Step
Making cheesy potato soup starts with building a rich, savory base. Begin by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat. Butter adds depth and helps soften the onion without browning it too quickly. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, then stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. This aromatic foundation ensures the soup tastes flavorful rather than flat.
Next, add the diced potatoes and pour in the broth. Use evenly cut potatoes so they cook at the same rate. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. As the potatoes cook, they soften and release starch, naturally thickening the soup. After about 20 to 25 minutes, the potatoes should be very tender and easy to mash.
At this stage, blend part of the soup. An immersion blender works best—blend until mostly smooth but leave some small potato pieces for texture. Reduce the heat to low before adding the dairy. Stir in the milk or cream slowly, followed by the shredded cheese. Add the cheese gradually, stirring constantly, so it melts smoothly without clumping. Keeping the heat low is key to a silky, creamy texture.
Season with salt and black pepper, tasting and adjusting as needed. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of broth; if too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes. Serve hot with optional toppings for extra indulgence.
Conclusion
Cheesy potato soup is comfort food at its most satisfying. Rich, creamy, and full of familiar flavor, it’s the kind of meal that brings people back for seconds. With simple ingredients and an easy process, it delivers big rewards without complicated steps. Whether served plain or loaded with toppings, cheesy potato soup is a timeless favorite that turns any ordinary day into a cozy, comforting one.