Perfect Cheesy Potato Soup: Comforting & Delicious!

Okay, amiga, let’s talk about pure comfort in a bowl. I’m talking about Cheesy Potato Soup – the kind that makes you wanna curl up on the couch and forget all your problems. This isn’t your grandma’s bland, watery soup. This is a Cheesy Potato Soup explosion, Cuba Queen style!

I’ve been chasing the perfect version of this Cheesy Potato Soup for ages, tweaking and tasting until I landed on this masterpiece. What didn’t work? Oh, honey, everything at first! Too bland, too thin, not cheesy enough (a cardinal sin!). But then, BAM! The right potatoes, the perfect cheese blend, and a secret ingredient I’m about to spill. Once I discovered how to use just a touch of spice, I knew my Cheesy Potato Soup was finally a home run!

This Cheesy Potato Soup represents everything I believe in: big, unapologetic flavors that make you feel good from the inside out. No holding back, no compromises, just pure culinary joy. Get ready, flavor adventurers, because I’m about to share the recipe that will turn your kitchen into a Cheesy Potato Soup fiesta!

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Don’t skimp here! The butter is essential for building a flavorful base.
• 1 large yellow onion, diced: Adds a touch of sweetness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Because garlic makes everything better!
• 6 cups chicken broth: Low sodium is best so you can control the salt.
• 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed: Yukon Golds are the DREAM for creamy potato soup because they get so tender.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: The secret weapon! It adds a smoky depth that takes this Cheesy Potato Soup to the next level.
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For a little kick!
• 1 cup heavy cream: For that luscious, creamy texture.
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The sharper the cheese, the better the flavor!
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Monterey Jack melts beautifully and adds a nice mildness.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Seasoning is KEY!
• Optional toppings: Chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, sour cream, extra cheese.

The secret to an epic Cheesy Potato Soup is using Yukon Gold potatoes. They’re naturally creamy and hold their shape just enough. This Cheesy Potato Soup ingredient list is short but mighty! You’ll find the best cheddar cheese for this Cheesy Potato Soup at your local cheese shop – splurge on a good one!

For a budget-friendly alternative, you can use russet potatoes, but add a tablespoon of cornstarch to help thicken the soup. Store your potatoes in a cool, dark place to keep them fresh.

1. Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don’t let the garlic burn!
2. Pour in the chicken broth and add the cubed potatoes, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender. Your Cheesy Potato Soup should smell absolutely divine right now!
3. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks of potato for texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer some of the soup to a regular blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot. Here’s where most people mess up their Cheesy Potato Soup – DON’T over blend!
4. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t stress – your Cheesy Potato Soup is going to be incredible! Pro tip for Cheesy Potato Soup perfection: add the cheese slowly, stirring constantly to prevent clumping.
5. Simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. In my kitchen, this Cheesy Potato Soup takes exactly 5 minutes to get that perfect cheesy, melty consistency.
6. Ladle into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, sour cream, and extra cheese. This is where your Cheesy Potato Soup transforms into pure magic!
7. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade potato soup!

While your Cheesy Potato Soup is working its magic, grab your camera – this is Instagram gold! This is where most people mess up their creamy potato soup – but not you! This recipe reminds me of my Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup – another flavor explosion.

Presentation is everything, amiga! Serve this Cheesy Potato Soup in rustic bowls with a sprinkle of fresh green onions and a dollop of sour cream. A side of crusty bread for dipping is a MUST.

For a truly decadent presentation, top with crumbled bacon and a generous helping of shredded cheese. People absolutely lose their minds when I serve this Cheesy Potato Soup at dinner parties!

This cheddar potato soup is perfect for a cozy night in, a casual get-together with friends, or even a fancy dinner party. It’s versatile and always a crowd-pleaser. For an Instagram-worthy plating technique, drizzle a little bit of olive oil on top and swirl it with a toothpick to create a design. This Cheesy Potato Soup absolutely slays at dinner parties!

Got leftovers? Turn them into cheesy potato fritters by mixing with a little flour and pan-frying until golden brown. In the fall, I love adding roasted butternut squash to this Cheesy Potato Soup for a seasonal twist. For more bold flavor adventures, check out: Creamy Reuben Soup for more soul-warming deliciousness!

Can I make this Cheesy Potato Soup spicier?

¡Absolutamente! Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes. You could even use a spicy cheese like pepper jack. In my testing, adding a diced jalapeño really brought the heat!

What if I don’t have Yukon Gold potatoes?

Russet potatoes will work in this potato cheese soup recipe, but they tend to be a bit starchier. Make sure you don’t overcook them and consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch to help thicken the soup.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can, but the soup won’t be as creamy. If you do, use whole milk for the best results. I would not recommend skim milk. In my experience, heavy cream is the key to that luscious texture.

How do I know when my Cheesy Potato Soup is perfectly done?

The potatoes should be very tender and easily mashed with a fork. The cheese should be fully melted and the soup should be smooth and creamy. Don’t overcook it or the potatoes will get mushy!

Can I freeze this Cheesy Potato Soup?

Freezing can change the texture of the soup, especially the potatoes and dairy. However, if you must, allow the soup to cool completely before freezing in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.

What toppings go best with Cheesy Potato Soup?

The possibilities are endless! Some of my favorites include chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, sour cream, shredded cheese, hot sauce, and croutons. My community loves adding crispy fried onions!

Can I make this Cheesy Potato Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Add all ingredients (except the cream and cheese) to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until potatoes are tender. Blend with an immersion blender, then stir in the cream and cheese until melted. This easy potato soup is a simple slow cooker recipe!

Is this a gluten free potato soup?

Yes, it is gluten free if you omit the croutons!

Is this potato soup healthy?

This is a comfort soup, not a salad, but feel free to load up on veggies and use low-fat options.

If this recipe rocks your world, you NEED to try Simple Cheesy Potato Soup — Miss Annie’s Home + Kitchen for even more flavor ideas! This recipe has been tested in my kitchen over and over, and the modifications for different tastes are endless!

This Cheesy Potato Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a hug in a bowl. It’s about creating memories, sharing laughter, and celebrating the simple joys of life. It’s Cuba Queen at its finest: bold, flavorful, and guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. This cheddar potato soup recipe represents my love of bold comfort flavors!

My Cheesy Potato Soup Power Tips:

• Don’t skimp on the cheese! Use a good quality cheddar and Monterey Jack for the best flavor and melt.
• Smoked paprika is your secret weapon! It adds a depth of flavor that will make everyone ask for your recipe.
• Partially blend the soup for the perfect texture! You want some chunks of potato, but also a creamy base.

Some Cheesy Potato Soup variations I’ve created include:

• Broccoli Cheesy Potato Soup: Add steamed broccoli florets for a veggie boost. This turns it into a delicious broccoli creamy potato soup.
• Bacon Ranch Cheesy Potato Soup: Add cooked bacon and a packet of ranch seasoning.
• Jalapeño Popper Cheesy Potato Soup: Add diced jalapeños and cream cheese for a spicy kick.

The bacon ranch version gets the biggest reactions from my friends and family!

I’m so confident that you’re going to nail this recipe and make it your own signature dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment and add your own personal touch. This recipe reminds me of another potato cheese soup recipe I love! Find the best one for you!

Now go forth and create some Cheesy Potato Soup memories, amiga! And don’t forget to share your results with me – I can’t wait to see what you create! Try this recipe from: Cheddar Cheese Potato Soup Recipe – Amanda’s Cookin’ – Soup for more inspiration. If your kids love this, they’ll go crazy for Cheesy Veggie Crescent Bites.