Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness on a chilly evening? Look no further! This creamy Velveeta potato cheese soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. It's surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less effort. Get ready to experience a flavor explosion in every spoonful! This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 (16-ounce) package Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk recommended for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika adds a delicious smoky depth)
- Optional toppings: Chopped chives, bacon bits, sour cream
Step-by-Step Instructions: Let's Get Cooking!
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add Potatoes and Broth: Add the cubed potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
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Blend for Creamy Perfection: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth and creamy. Work in batches if necessary.
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Melt the Cheese: Return the blended soup to the pot. Add the cubed Velveeta cheese and milk. Stir constantly over low heat until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
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Season and Serve: Stir in the black pepper and paprika. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as chopped chives, crispy bacon bits, or a dollop of sour cream.
Cooking Tips for Extra Deliciousness
- For a richer flavor: Use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a little kick.
- Thicken it up: If you prefer a thicker soup, simply simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes after adding the cheese to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations to Delight Your Taste Buds
- Bacon Cheeseburger Soup: Add cooked crumbled bacon and a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for a savory twist.
- Roasted Garlic Cheese Soup: Roast a whole head of garlic before mincing it for an intensely flavorful soup.
- Cheddar Potato Soup: Replace the Velveeta with your favorite sharp cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This Velveeta potato cheese soup recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. It's a delicious example of homemade cooking at its finest. Enjoy this quick dinner idea, and let us know how you like it! We're confident it will become one of your best recipes.