Kittencal’s Cheddar Cheese & Potato Soup π₯π§
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Description:
This hearty and comforting Cheddar Cheese & Potato Soup recipe is a cherished family favorite, especially during the cozy fall and winter seasons. You have the option to elevate its flavor with some crispy, crumbled bacon if you desire a smoky twist. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility; it can easily be doubled to feed a larger crowd or to have leftovers for the week. Get ready to savor spoonfuls of creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 medium carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery ribs, finely chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | In a large saucepan, melt butter with oil over medium-high heat. Once melted, add in the finely chopped carrots, celery, onion, and minced garlic. SautΓ© the vegetables until they become softened and fragrant, which should take about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. |
| 2 | Next, sprinkle the flour and cayenne pepper into the saucepan. Using a whisk, stir continuously for about 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste. This will help thicken the soup later on. |
| 3 | Gradually pour in the half-and-half and chicken broth, whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and well combined. |
| 4 | Increase the heat slightly to bring the soup to a light boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer gently. Stir and cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until the soup has thickened slightly. |
| 5 | Now, it’s time to add in the diced potatoes. Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for approximately 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. |
| 6 | When the potatoes are tender, it’s the perfect moment to introduce the star of the show: the shredded cheddar cheese! Gradually sprinkle in the cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until it has completely melted into the soup. For an extra layer of flavor, you can also mix in a few tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese at this stage. |
| 7 | Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Remember that the cheese will add some saltiness, so adjust accordingly. |
| 8 | Ladle the creamy, cheesy soup into individual bowls, and if desired, sprinkle each serving with a touch of grated Parmesan cheese for a beautiful finishing touch. |
| 9 | Serve the Cheddar Cheese & Potato Soup piping hot, perhaps with some crusty bread or crispy bacon on the side for added indulgence. Enjoy the comforting flavors and warmth with each spoonful! |
Tips:
- For added richness, you can substitute some or all of the half-and-half with heavy cream.
- Feel free to customize the soup with additional ingredients such as cooked bacon, chopped green onions, or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
- This soup reheats wonderfully, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or leftovers. Simply store any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, cool the soup completely and transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 826.4
- Fat: 60.6g
- Saturated Fat: 34.4g
- Cholesterol: 164mg
- Sodium: 1316.2mg
- Carbohydrates: 36.2g
- Fiber: 3.9g
- Sugar: 4.9g
- Protein: 35.5g
Now you have a fantastic recipe for Kittencal’s Cheddar Cheese & Potato Soup that’s sure to become a family favorite in your household as well! π²β¨ Enjoy the warmth and comforting flavors of this creamy, cheesy delight, perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a bowl of hearty goodness.
