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Creamy Cheesy Potato Soup Recipe

4.7 from 54 reviews

This creamy cheesy potato soup is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for chilly days. Made with tender russet potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, it’s packed with rich flavors and creamy textures. Garnished with fresh chives, this soup is easy to prepare and satisfying for the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 6 slices bacon, diced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Fresh chives for garnish
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook Bacon: In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Once crispy, remove the bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pot.
  2. Sauté Onions: Add the finely chopped onions to the bacon fat and sauté until they become translucent and soft, about 4-5 minutes. This builds a flavorful base for the soup.
  3. Make Roux: Add the butter and all-purpose flour to the pot with the onions. Stir constantly and cook the mixture for 2 minutes to form a roux, which will thicken the soup.
  4. Add Liquids and Potatoes: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and whole milk to prevent lumps. Stir well. Then add the diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
  5. Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as necessary.
  6. Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with the reserved crispy bacon and fresh chopped chives for a burst of freshness and extra texture.

Notes

  • For a smoother texture, partially mash some of the potatoes before adding the cheese.
  • Use low-fat milk or half-and-half for a lighter version, but this may affect creaminess.
  • Feel free to substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a slightly different flavor profile.
  • To make it vegetarian, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth and a non-dairy butter substitute.
  • This soup reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: creamy potato soup, cheesy potato soup, bacon potato soup, comfort food soup, cheddar cheese soup, easy potato soup recipe