Introduction
When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of potato soup. This shredded potato soup with cream cheese is a rich and hearty dish that combines the creamy goodness of cheese with the wholesome flavor of potatoes. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or as a starter for a larger meal, this recipe is both easy to make and utterly satisfying.
Nutritional Value
This shredded potato soup is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Potatoes are a great source of vitamins C and B6, as well as potassium and dietary fiber. The cream cheese adds a rich source of calcium and protein, making this soup a nutritious option that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Each serving of this soup offers a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, making it a well-rounded meal option.
Ingredients
To make this delectable shredded potato soup with cream cheese, you will need the following ingredients:
4 large potatoes, peeled and shredded
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh chives or green onions for garnish.
Instructions
Prepare the Potatoes and Onion: Begin by peeling and shredding the potatoes. Set them aside in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
Cook the Onion and Garlic: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the Potatoes and Broth: Drain the shredded potatoes and add them to the pot. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Incorporate the Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes. Gradually add the softened cream cheese, stirring until fully melted and incorporated into the soup. Finally, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until the soup is creamy and smooth.
Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chives or green onions. Serve hot and enjoy
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cream cheese?
A: Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with other cheeses like mascarpone or ricotta for a different texture and flavor. However, cream cheese gives the soup its signature creaminess.
Q: Can I make this soup in advance?
A: Absolutely This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove. Note that the texture might slightly change due to the dairy content, but it will still taste delicious.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
A: Feel free to customize this soup with additional vegetables like carrots, celery, or corn. Simply add them in with the potatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, this shredded potato soup with cream cheese is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure that your broth is labeled gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.
Conclusion
This shredded potato soup with cream cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich flavors with a creamy texture that will warm you up on even the coldest days. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or alongside a salad or sandwich, this soup is a versatile and delicious option for any meal.