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Cheesy Potato Soup is a comforting and creamy dish that warms you up on a chilly day. This rich and flavorful soup combines tender potatoes, savory cheese, and aromatic spices, making it a perfect choice for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy-to-follow recipe will help you create a delicious bowl of cheesy goodness that your family will love.
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: green onions, bacon bits, additional cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small cubes. Chop the onion and mince the garlic, ensuring that all ingredients are ready for cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and leave the rest as is. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Milk
Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and milk. Heat over low heat until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Cheesy Potato Soup hot, garnished with your choice of toppings such as green onions, bacon bits, or additional cheese. Enjoy this hearty soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this Cheesy Potato Soup?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese such as Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick!
Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any bacon toppings.
Can I make Cheesy Potato Soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove, adding a little extra milk if needed to loosen the consistency.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any flour. Just ensure that the broth you use is labeled gluten-free.
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