Are you craving a comforting, cheesy, and utterly delicious meal that's ready in minutes? Look no further! This recipe elevates the classic Campbell's Cheddar Cheese Soup into a hearty and satisfying dish with the addition of fluffy potatoes. It’s a perfect example of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking at its finest, offering a delicious twist on a familiar favorite. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy recipe will become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Get ready for a taste sensation that’s both healthy and incredibly flavorful!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can Campbell's Cheddar Cheese Soup
- 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped green onions, bacon bits, croutons
Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor base of your soup, so don't rush it!
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Add Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the saucepan. Pour in about 1 cup of water or chicken broth, enough to just barely cover the potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
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Incorporate Soup and Milk: Stir in the Campbell's Cheddar Cheese Soup and milk. Heat through, stirring occasionally, until the soup is heated and smooth. Don't let it boil.
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Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it's melted and fully incorporated into the creamy soup.
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Season and Serve: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits, or croutons.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Potato Perfection: For perfectly cooked potatoes, ensure they are diced into even-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and prevents some pieces from becoming mushy while others remain firm.
- Milk Matters: Using whole milk adds richness and creaminess to the soup. However, you can substitute with 2% or skim milk if preferred, but the texture might be slightly thinner.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a little kick.
- Fresh Herbs: For an extra layer of flavor, stir in some fresh herbs like chives or parsley at the end.
Variations:
- Bacon Cheddar: Add 4 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon to the soup for a smoky, savory twist.
- Spicy Cheddar: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable Cheddar: Add other vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers along with the potatoes for a more substantial and nutritious meal.
- Chicken Cheddar: Add cooked and shredded chicken for a protein-packed meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This easy recipe for Campbell's Cheddar Cheese Soup with potatoes is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal. It's perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!