Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness that's ready in under 30 minutes? Then look no further! This cheesy potato soup recipe with Velveeta is the ultimate quick dinner idea, perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend lunch. It’s a homemade cooking masterpiece that’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. Get ready to experience the ultimate cheesy potato soup – creamy, dreamy, and utterly irresistible!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a perfect choice for a busy weeknight.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 (16 ounce) package Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for extra richness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: chives, bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Your Cheesy Dream
Follow these simple steps for a perfectly creamy and cheesy potato soup experience.
Step 1: 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. This step builds the flavour base of your soup.
Step 2: 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. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork.
Step 3: Melt the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cubed Velveeta cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. This is where the magic happens!
Step 4: Stir in Milk and Sour Cream (Optional)
Stir in the milk and sour cream (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the soup is too thick, add a little more milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as chives, bacon bits, or shredded cheddar cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious and easy healthy meal!
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Bowl
- For a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup after the potatoes are cooked.
- Don't overcrowd the pot. If you have a large amount of potatoes, consider cooking them in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a blend of cheeses would also be delicious.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Variations on a Classic
This recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are a few ideas to customize your cheesy potato soup:
- Bacon Cheddar Potato Soup: Add 4 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon to the soup during the last step. Increase the cheddar cheese topping.
- Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Add cooked bacon bits, chives, shredded cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream to each bowl.
- Roasted Garlic Potato Soup: Roast a whole head of garlic before mincing it for an intense garlic flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This cheesy potato soup recipe with Velveeta is a perfect example of delicious and easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor. It's a quick dinner idea that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the comforting warmth and the cheesy goodness!