Creamy Potato Soup with Cheddar Cheese is a warm and comforting American-style soup made with tender potatoes, onions, celery, creamy milk, and melted cheddar cheese. It is rich, satisfying, and simple enough to prepare for a cozy weeknight dinner.
The combination of potatoes and cheddar creates a naturally hearty soup, while a simple creamy base gives it a smooth and comforting texture. A little garlic, black pepper, and fresh herbs add extra flavor without overpowering the main ingredients.
This potato soup is especially enjoyable on cold days, but it is easy enough to make throughout the year. Serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into small cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup half-and-half or light cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and celery. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become soft.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the Flour
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir continuously for about 1–2 minutes.
This creates a simple base that will help thicken the soup and give it a creamy texture.
3. Add the Broth and Potatoes
Slowly pour in the broth while stirring to prevent lumps from forming.
Add the diced potatoes, thyme, paprika, and black pepper. Season lightly with salt.
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Make the Soup Creamy
Reduce the heat to low and add the milk and half-and-half.
Stir gently and heat the soup without allowing it to boil. Boiling after adding dairy can affect the texture of the soup.
5. Add the Cheddar Cheese
Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese while stirring.
Continue stirring until the cheese has completely melted and the soup becomes smooth and creamy.
Taste the soup and adjust the salt and black pepper if necessary.
6. Adjust the Texture
For a completely smooth soup, use an immersion blender carefully until you reach the desired consistency.
For a chunkier potato soup, mash only some of the potatoes with the back of a spoon or potato masher and leave the rest in small pieces.
7. Garnish and Serve
Remove the soup from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
Serve hot and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives. You can also add a little extra shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Tips for the Best Potato Soup
- Cut the potatoes evenly: Similar-sized pieces cook at the same rate.
- Use sharp cheddar: It provides more flavor and works especially well in creamy soups.
- Add cheese gradually: This helps it melt smoothly into the soup.
- Do not boil the dairy: Keep the heat low after adding milk and cream.
- Adjust the thickness: Add a little extra broth if the soup becomes too thick.
- Season as you go: Potatoes can absorb a lot of seasoning, so taste before serving.
Easy Variations
This creamy potato soup is easy to customize depending on what you have available.
Loaded Potato Soup
Add crispy cooked bacon, extra cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions before serving for a loaded baked-potato style soup.
Vegetable Potato Soup
Add carrots, corn, or additional celery for more vegetables and texture.
Spicy Cheddar Potato Soup
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a small amount of chopped jalapeƱo for a little heat.
Vegetarian Potato Soup
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make the recipe vegetarian.
What to Serve With Potato Soup
Creamy potato soup pairs well with simple sides that add freshness or crunch.
- Crusty French bread
- Garlic bread
- Fresh green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Grilled cheese sandwich
- Oyster crackers
- Crispy bacon
For another comforting American recipe, try our Classic New England Clam Chowder.
How to Store Potato Soup
Allow the soup to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator and enjoy it within a few days.
When reheating, use low to medium heat and stir occasionally. Avoid boiling the soup because the dairy and cheese can separate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different potatoes?
Yes. Russet potatoes work well because they become soft and help create a thicker soup. Yukon Gold potatoes are another excellent option and provide a naturally creamy texture.
Can I make potato soup without cream?
Yes. You can replace the half-and-half with additional milk or use more broth for a lighter version. The soup will be less rich but can still be flavorful.
Can I add bacon?
Yes. Crispy bacon is a popular addition to creamy potato soup. Add it just before serving so it keeps some of its texture.
How can I make the soup thicker?
You can mash some of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot. Alternatively, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender until it reaches your preferred consistency.
Can I freeze creamy potato soup?
It is possible, but soups containing milk, cream, and cheese can change texture after freezing and thawing. For the best texture, refrigeration and gentle reheating are recommended.
More Comfort Food Recipes
If you enjoy hearty American comfort food, explore these recipes from American Food Guide Online:
- Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese
- Classic Beef Chili with Beans and Tomatoes
- Chicken and Dumplings
- Classic American Meatloaf Recipe
- Classic New England Clam Chowder Recipe
Recipe Summary
Final Thoughts
Creamy Potato Soup with Cheddar Cheese is a simple and satisfying comfort food that combines tender potatoes, creamy broth, and rich cheddar cheese in one warm bowl.
It is easy to customize with bacon, vegetables, herbs, or extra cheese, making it a flexible recipe for family dinners and cozy weekends.
Serve it hot with crusty bread or a fresh salad and enjoy a comforting bowl of homemade potato soup.