Easy Cheesy Potato Soup
Creamy and cheesy, this potato soup combines savory flavors perfect for a comforting meal. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners or cozy weekends with family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine instant minced onion, instant chicken bouillon, garlic powder with 2 1/2 cups water in a skillet. Simmer, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Stir in mashed potato flakes, milk, and shredded Cheddar cheese in order listed.
- Cook over low heat until cheese is melted, stirring constantly.
- Do not boil.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding some diced cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables like carrots and celery to the soup. If you don’t have instant chicken bouillon, vegetable bouillon works well for a vegetarian version. You can also substitute the Cheddar cheese with Gruyère for a different taste. Adjust garlic powder according to your preference, or add fresh garlic for a stronger flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Cheesy Potato Soup is perfect as a comforting main dish or as a side to sandwiches and salads. For a heartier meal, serve it with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like Baked Hash Brown Casserole for a filling dinner. Garnish with green onions or croutons for added crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the soup in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup thickens too much, add a little milk or water to reach the desired consistency. Avoid boiling it again to preserve the creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Cheesy Potato Soup contains roughly 790 calories, with 24g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (54% of the Daily Value), protein (48% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 608mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of potato flakes?
Yes, you can use freshly cooked and mashed potatoes instead of potato flakes. Use about 2 cups of mashed potatoes to replace the flakes. Adjust the amount of liquid in the recipe to achieve your desired consistency, as fresh potatoes may require more liquid.
Is there a way to make this soup healthier?
Absolutely! You can use low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk for a lighter version. Additionally, consider adding more vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrients. Reducing the amount of cheese or using a lower-fat cheese can also help decrease the calorie count.
Can I freeze the leftover soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup, but be aware that the texture may change upon thawing. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).