Cheddar-Potato Soup

Creamy Cheddar-Potato Soup Recipe from USA | Simple Ingredients

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Cheddar-Potato Soup is a creamy and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This soup combines the rich flavors of cheddar cheese with the hearty goodness of potatoes to create a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

Cheddar-Potato Soup is a classic comfort food dish that has been enjoyed for generations. The combination of cheddar cheese and potatoes has long been a favorite in American cuisine, and this soup is a perfect example of how these two ingredients can come together to create a delicious and hearty meal.

Ingredients

2 tsp olive oil
1 cup diced or minced onion (red, white, or yellow only)
1 cup diced celery
6 cups reduced-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups cooked, mashed potatoes
8 oz (227 g) shredded cheddar cheese
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground white pepper
1 tsp dry mustard
hot sauce

How to prepare

Add oil to a large pot placed over medium-high heat.
Add onion and celery and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
Add stock and mashed potatoes and bring to a simmer.
Using a hand blender or regular blender, blend the soup until smooth.
Add cheddar, salt, white pepper, dry mustard, and hot sauce. Stir to combine and let the cheese melt.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor.
Stir in some chopped broccoli or cauliflower for added texture and nutrition.
Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use reduced-sodium vegetable broth to control the salt content of the soup.

- For a smoother texture, use a hand blender to blend the soup until it is completely smooth.

- Adjust the amount of hot sauce to suit your taste preferences.

- For a thicker soup, add more mashed potatoes or reduce the amount of broth.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cheddar-Potato Soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to simmer the soup gently to prevent the cheese from curdling.

- Use a hand blender for a smoother texture, or a regular blender for a completely smooth soup.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of onion (red, white, or yellow) for the diced onion.

- Substitute chicken broth for the vegetable broth if desired.

- Use any type of cheese in place of cheddar, such as Gruyere or Swiss.

Make Ahead Tips

Cheddar-Potato Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Cheddar-Potato Soup with a sprinkle of chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Cheddar-Potato Soup with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Cheddar-Potato Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cheddar-Potato Soup contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cheddar-Potato Soup contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cheddar-Potato Soup contains approximately 18 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Cheddar-Potato Soup contains approximately 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Cheddar-Potato Soup is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

Cheddar-Potato Soup contains dairy (cheddar cheese) and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Cheddar-Potato Soup is a rich and creamy dish that is high in fat and protein. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, but may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies.

Summary

Cheddar-Potato Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This creamy soup is packed with flavor and is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a simple yet hearty Cheddar-Potato Soup that I knew would be the perfect comfort food for chilly winter nights. I had come across the recipe in an old cookbook that belonged to my dear friend Martha, who had passed away a few years ago.

Martha was an incredible cook, and she had a knack for finding the most delicious recipes from all over the world. She loved to experiment in the kitchen and was always willing to share her culinary treasures with me. One day, as I was flipping through her cookbook, I stumbled upon the recipe for Cheddar-Potato Soup. It called for just a few simple ingredients - potatoes, onions, broth, cheddar cheese, and a few herbs and spices.

I decided to give it a try, and I was amazed at how delicious it turned out. The soup was rich and creamy, with a wonderful cheesy flavor that made my taste buds dance with delight. I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made this Cheddar-Potato Soup countless times, perfecting my own version of the recipe. I have added my own twist to it, using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought, and adding a bit of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness. I have also learned to use different types of cheddar cheese, experimenting with sharp, mild, and even smoked varieties to create different flavor profiles.

One of the most memorable times I made this soup was when my grandchildren came to visit. They had never tried Cheddar-Potato Soup before, and I was excited to introduce them to one of my favorite recipes. As I cooked the soup, the kitchen filled with the wonderful aroma of potatoes and cheese, and I could see the curiosity in my grandchildren's eyes as they watched me work.

When the soup was finally ready, I served it up in bowls and watched as my grandchildren took their first spoonfuls. Their faces lit up with delight as they tasted the creamy, cheesy goodness of the soup. They couldn't get enough of it, and I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had passed down a delicious recipe to the next generation.

As I sat at the table with my grandchildren, savoring each spoonful of Cheddar-Potato Soup, I couldn't help but think of Martha. I knew that she would have been thrilled to see me carrying on her legacy in the kitchen, sharing her recipes with those I love. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for all the wonderful meals and memories that she had given me over the years.

And so, I continue to make Martha's Cheddar-Potato Soup, each time adding a little bit of love and a lot of flavor to the pot. It is a recipe that will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy that comes from sharing good food with good people. And I know that as long as I keep cooking and creating in the kitchen, Martha's spirit will always be there with me, guiding me along the way.