Name: Cheesy Potato Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 large Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch cubes; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon pepper; 4-6 cups chicken broth; 1 cup cold milk; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup heavy cream or half and half; 1 pound Velveeta Cheese, cut into chunks; Turkey bacon, fried and crumbled (optional); Green onions (optional)

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There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Cheesy Potato Soup to brighten a chilly day. This delightful dish effortlessly combines rich flavors with comforting textures, making it the perfect choice for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or even as a cozy solo indulgence. The creamy, cheesy goodness paired with tender potatoes creates a satisfying experience that warms the heart and the belly. You may also find 30 Minute Anti Inflammatory Cauliflower Chicken Soup useful.

Reasons to Love Cheesy Potato Soup

What makes this Cheesy Potato Soup special? For starters, it’s easy to prepare and utilizes simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s what you can look forward to:

Creamy texture that delights the senses
Ideal for any time of year, especially during colder months
Quick to cook and perfect for busy schedules
Customizable with various toppings and add-ins

Gather These Ingredients

To create this delectable soup, you’ll need a few essential ingredients that complement each other beautifully. Here’s what you should gather for a hearty serving:

6 large Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch cubes
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
4-6 cups chicken broth
1 cup cold milk
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 cup heavy cream or half and half
1 pound Velveeta Cheese, cut into chunks
Turkey bacon, fried and crumbled (optional)
Green onions (optional)

The choice of Yukon Gold potatoes provides a wonderful creaminess that complements the richness of the cheese.

How to Cook Cheesy Potato Soup

Follow these straightforward steps to whip up your delicious Cheesy Potato Soup:

Add the potatoes, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and chicken broth to a 4-quart or larger crock pot. Stir everything together and cook on high for about 3 1/2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the potatoes to become tender.
In a small bowl, whisk the flour into the cold milk until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps.
Stir the flour mixture into the potatoes in the crock pot, then add the heavy cream. Stir well, cover, and cook for another 30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Add the Velveeta cheese chunks to the soup and allow them to melt, stirring occasionally until well combined.
For a finishing touch, garnish with turkey bacon and green onions if desired.

Prep ~ 10 minutes, Cook ~ 4 hours, Total ~ 4 hours 10 minutes, Servings ~ 6, Kcal ~ 450.

Plan Ahead

You can make some components of the Cheesy Potato Soup in advance to save time on the day you plan to serve it. Prepare the vegetables and the broth a day early, storing them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply combine everything in the crock pot and follow the cooking instructions.

How to Store Leftovers

After enjoying your Cheesy Potato Soup, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring regularly. A fresh suggestion is to garnish with additional cheese or green onions for a revitalized flavor on the second serving.

Perfect Pairings

Looking for side dishes to complement your Cheesy Potato Soup? Here are some delicious ideas:

Crusty baguette or artisan bread for dipping
A fresh garden salad to add a crunchy contrast
Grilled cheese sandwiches to enhance the cheesy experience
Steamed vegetables for a healthful balance

Flavor Twists and Substitutions

Feel free to make this soup truly yours with these variations:

Add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Incorporate other cheeses like sharp cheddar or pepper jack for varied flavors.
Toss in fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness.
Stir in some cooked turkey sausage for a heartier meal.
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly option.

Cook’s Notes and Secrets

To ensure your Cheesy Potato Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these expert tips:

For smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree some of the soup before adding cheese.
Ensure that the potatoes are cut uniformly for even cooking.
Stir occasionally to prevent the soup from sticking to the bottom of the crock pot.
Use a good quality cheese for the best flavor and melting qualities.

Your Questions Answered

Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar or Monterey Jack for unique flavors.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Just make sure to store it in airtight containers for optimal freshness.
How do I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
If the soup is too thin, consider adding an extra tablespoon of flour whisked with cold milk, or simply allow it to simmer longer to reduce the liquid.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Certainly! Feel free to add carrots, celery, or peas for extra nutrition and flavor.
How long does it take to cook on low?
If you prefer to cook it on low heat, allow for approximately 7-8 hours until the potatoes are tender.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Potato Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience that invites you to savor each comforting spoonful. Whether you’re looking to celebrate a gathering or simply indulge in a cozy night at home, this recipe will surely meet your needs. Made with wholesome ingredients and packed with cheesy goodness, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand. Enjoy this delightful recipe with loved ones, and don’t forget to explore more delicious options like an easy casserole to pair alongside!

Cheesy Potato Soup

Author: anastasia-rice
Total Time: 250 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian-friendly (if using vegetable broth)

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Description

A warm and comforting Cheesy Potato Soup made with Yukon Gold potatoes, creamy Velveeta cheese, and garlic.

Instructions

Add the potatoes, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and chicken broth to a 4-quart or larger crock pot. Stir everything together and cook on high for about 210 minutes.
In a small bowl, whisk the flour into the cold milk until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps.
Stir the flour mixture into the potatoes in the crock pot, then add the heavy cream. Stir well, cover, and cook for another 30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Add the Velveeta cheese chunks to the soup and allow them to melt, stirring occasionally until well combined.
For a finishing touch, garnish with turkey bacon and green onions if desired.

Notes

Can be made ahead; refrigerate prepared vegetables and broth. Store leftovers in airtight containers for 3 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 240 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American