Creamy potato soup with cheddar cheese
Creamy potato soup with cheddar cheese is the ultimate comfort food on a chilly night. It’s incredibly rich and hearty, yet easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. This delicious soup can be made in no time and is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
- 6 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chives, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until softened.
2. Add the potatoes to the pot and stir well. Cover with chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender.
3. Remove the pot from heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
4. Return the pot to the stove and stir in 2 cups of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream. Heat the soup over medium heat until it’s hot, but not boiling.
5. Gradually stir in 1 cup cheddar cheese, whisking constantly until it’s melted and smooth. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Ladle the soup into bowls and top each with chives, if desired. Serve immediately.
Tips:
- If you don't have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender to puree the soup in batches.
- You can add a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne pepper for a little spice.
- For a thicker soup, reduce the amount of chicken broth used in the recipe.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham for some extra protein.
- Garnish with croutons or crispy fried onions for added texture.
- Use different types of cheese, such as Swiss or gouda, for a different flavor.
- Add chopped carrots or celery for additional vegetables.
Conclusion:
Creamy potato soup with cheddar cheese is a delicious and comforting meal that can be enjoyed all year round. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized to your liking. Serve it with some crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal. Try it today and you won't be disappointed!