Cheesy Potato Soup

If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food, this Cheesy Potato Soup is the answer. Loaded with tender potatoes and a rich blend of three cheeses—cheddar, Gruyere, and cream cheese—this soup is creamy, hearty, and perfect for warming up on a cold day. Best of all, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Potato Soup

This soup is rich, creamy, and filling enough to serve as a main dish. It uses pantry-friendly ingredients, so you don’t need to make a special trip to the store. The mix of cheeses adds depth of flavor, while the potatoes give it a satisfying, hearty texture. Whether you serve it as a starter or a full meal with crusty bread, this soup will become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 3 cups chicken broth or stock (not reduced sodium)
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder
• 1 pound baking potatoes, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces

Cheese Base:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded Gruyere cheese
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, mustard powder, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.
2. Add diced potatoes and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes, until potatoes are fork-tender.
3. Use a potato masher to lightly mash the potatoes, leaving some chunks for texture.
4. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in flour and cook for one minute.
5. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring until smooth. Cook until thickened and bubbly.
6. Add cream cheese and onion powder, whisking until smooth.
7. Turn off the heat and stir in cheddar and Gruyere until melted and creamy.
8. Add the mashed potatoes to the cheese mixture, along with the potato broth. Adjust consistency by adding more or less broth.
9. Simmer for one minute, taste, and season with extra salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with toppings of your choice such as green onions, or extra shredded cheese.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving:

• Serve the soup hot, straight from the stovetop, with your favorite garnishes such as shredded cheese, bacon crumbles, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
• Pair it with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a side salad for a complete meal.
• For entertaining, serve in bread bowls for a cozy and fun presentation.

Storage:

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often, and add a splash of milk or broth if the soup thickens too much.
• Freezing is not recommended because the cheeses may separate and change texture.

Variations

1. Loaded Baked Potato Soup – Top with bacon bits, sour cream, shredded cheddar, and green onions for a loaded baked potato experience.
2. Broccoli Cheddar Potato Soup – Stir in steamed broccoli florets during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added flavor and nutrition.
3. Ham and Potato Soup – Add diced cooked ham to the soup for a smoky, savory twist. Perfect for using up leftovers.
4. Spicy Cheesy Potato Soup – Add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
5. Vegetarian Version – Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and skip bacon toppings for a meat-free meal.
6. Healthy Lightened-Up Soup – Use reduced-fat cream cheese, low-fat milk, and less cheddar cheese to cut down on calories.
7. Smoked Cheese Potato Soup – Substitute smoked cheddar or smoked Gruyere for a deeper, richer, and slightly smoky taste.
8. Chicken Potato Soup – Add shredded rotisserie chicken for a protein-packed version that’s hearty enough for dinner.
9. Cheddar Cauliflower Potato Soup – Replace half the potatoes with cauliflower for a lighter but still creamy dish.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a day in advance and reheat on low heat before serving.

2. What potatoes are best for this recipe?
Russets for a creamier soup, or Yukon Golds for a buttery, slightly firmer texture.

3. Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, simply replace the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free thickener.

4. How can I thicken the soup more?
Mash more of the potatoes or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water).

5. Can I freeze cheesy potato soup?
Not recommended, as dairy may separate. Store in the fridge for best results.

6. Can I substitute the cheeses?
Yes, try Monterey Jack, Colby, or even Parmesan to change the flavor profile.

7. What toppings work well with this soup?
Bacon crumbles, green onions, chives, shredded cheese, or sour cream are all delicious.

8. How do I keep the soup from curdling?
Cook on low heat and avoid boiling after adding cheese. Stir continuously while melting.

9. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Block cheese is best for smoother melting, as pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents.

10. Can I add vegetables to this soup?
Yes, carrots, celery, peas, or broccoli can be added for extra nutrition.

This Cheesy Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy potatoes with three flavorful cheeses for a rich and satisfying meal. Quick to make and endlessly versatile, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or serving to guests. With simple ingredients and big flavors, this soup is one you’ll want to make again and again.

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