4-Ingredient Cheddar Potato Soup Recipe

4-Ingredient Cheddar Potato Soup Recipe for Cozy, Creamy Comfort

This 4-Ingredient Cheddar Potato Soup is the definition of easy comfort food. It gets naturally thick and creamy from the potatoes themselves, and the sharp cheddar brings that bold, cozy flavor everyone loves. No roux, no heavy cream, no complicated steps.

It’s the kind of soup you make on a busy night when you want something warm and filling without turning the kitchen into a mess. Simple, satisfying, and always hits the spot.

Flavor & Texture Highlights

Soft, tender potatoes create a naturally creamy base, while sharp cheddar melts in for a rich, savory finish. You can keep it chunky for a rustic feel, or mash more for a smoother, thicker spoonful.

Jump to Section

• Why You’ll Love This Soup
• What You’ll Need
• How to Make It
• Helpful Tips
• Serving Ideas
• Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Soup

• Only four main ingredients
• Thick and creamy without heavy cream
• No roux or complicated steps
• Ready fast with pantry basics
• Easy to customize (chunky or smooth)

What You’ll Need to Make This Recipe

The full ingredient measurements are listed in the recipe card at the end.

• Potatoes
• Milk
• Sharp cheddar cheese
• Butter
• Salt and black pepper (optional)

How to Make This Recipe

For the complete step-by-step instructions, see the recipe card below.

1. Boil the diced potatoes until fork-tender.
2. Drain, then mash gently (keep a few chunks if you like texture).
3. Stir in butter until melted.
4. Warm the milk without boiling.
5. Stir in cheddar slowly until fully melted and creamy.
6. Season and let it sit briefly to thicken.

Helpful Tips

• Don’t boil after adding milk: keep it at a gentle heat so it doesn’t scorch.
• Add cheese gradually: handful by handful on low heat for the smoothest melt.
• Choose the right potatoes: starchy potatoes make it thicker; waxy potatoes stay chunkier.
• Want it smoother? mash more, or blend part of the soup then stir it back in.

Serving Ideas

Serve this soup hot with crusty bread, crackers, or a simple green salad. It’s also perfect with roasted broccoli, grilled cheese, or a sandwich for a cozy, filling meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but freshly grated cheddar melts smoother and gives a creamier texture.

How do I make it thicker?
Mash more potatoes, or simmer on very low heat for a few extra minutes.

How do I store leftovers?
Keep in the fridge in an airtight container. Reheat gently and stir often.

Recipe Card

4-Ingredient Cheddar Potato Soup

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cups milk (whole milk works best)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and black pepper, to taste (optional)

Instructions

1. Add diced potatoes to a pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then simmer 12–15 minutes until fork-tender.
2. Drain potatoes, reserving about 1/2 to 1 tablespoon of the cooking liquid in the pot. Mash gently, leaving small chunks if desired.
3. Stir butter into the hot potatoes until fully melted.
4. Pour in milk and warm over medium heat until steaming. Do not boil.
5. Lower heat and add shredded cheddar in small handfuls, stirring until melted and smooth.
6. Season with salt and black pepper if using. Keep on very low heat for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly, then serve.

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