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Looking for a comforting dish that’s both impressive and easy on time? This velvety cheddar–potato soup checks every box. With savory bacon, creaminess from melted cheese, and just enough spice to keep things interesting, you’ll have a memorable bowl of comfort ready in a snap.
Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sliced green onions or chives (for garnish)
Instructions
Begin by heating a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, letting those glorious bacon drippings infuse their smoky flavor. Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel–lined plate, leaving about a tablespoon of those drippings in the pot.
Next, melt the butter in the same pot. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about three to four minutes. Stir in the cubed potatoes, coating them in the savory onion-garlic goodness before pouring in the broth.
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, reduce the heat, and let it simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, roughly 15 minutes. Then, remove the pot from heat and use a potato masher or immersion blender to partly puree the soup (or leave it chunky if you’re a fan of rustic texture). Stir in the cheddar cheese and milk, letting the cheddar melt seamlessly into the soup. Finally, taste and adjust with salt and pepper.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with the crispy bacon, a scattering of green onions or chives, and a sprinkle of extra cheese if you’re feeling indulgent.
This soup is a winner for busy weeknights or friendly gatherings—flavorful and hearty enough to please everyone, and simple enough to whip up in no time. If you’d like to lighten it up, swap in low-fat milk or skip the bacon. You can also stir in your favorite herbs, or add vegetables like chopped carrots or celery for extra nutrients. However you adjust it, this comforting bowl will warm hearts (and bellies) at the dinner table.
