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–+ servings
Potato and Cheese Soup
Potato and cheese soup is a classic example of mid-century home cooking, when simple pantry ingredients were transformed into filling, comforting meals. This version relies on leeks for gentle sweetness, potatoes for body, and milk and cheese for richness, creating a soup that is both hearty and soothing without being heavy. Recipes like this were often written on index cards to be used on busy weeknights, when one pot on the stove could feed the whole family. The slow simmer allows the potatoes to soften and thicken the broth naturally, while the final rest off heat lets the flavors fully blend. It’s beloved for its simplicity, warmth, and unmistakable homemade feel.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Soup
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 20 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 2 leeks (thinly sliced)
  • 4 potatoes (large, peeled and diced)
  • 5 cups water
  • 2 cups milk
  • ½ cup cheese (grated )
  • 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp paprika

Instructions
 

Step 1: Melt Butter

  • Melt the butter in a soup pot over low heat.

Step 2: Sauté Leeks

  • Add sliced leeks to the pot.
  • Sauté gently for about 2 minutes on low heat.

Step 3: Add Potatoes

  • Add diced potatoes to the pot.
  • Sauté for 1 more minute while stirring.

Step 4: Simmer Soup

  • Add water to the pot.
  • Cover and cook for 30 minutes, until potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Finish with Dairy and Seasoning

  • Add milk, grated cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika.
  • Bring to a boil, then turn off heat.

Step 6: Rest the Soup

  • Cover the pot and let the soup stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips

  • Use sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor
  • Blend half the soup for a creamier texture
  • Add cooked bacon for extra richness
  • Substitute vegetable broth for deeper flavor
  • Add garlic with the leeks for more aroma
  • Top with chives or green onions before serving
  • Use half-and-half instead of milk for extra creaminess
  • Add carrots or celery for more vegetables

Nutrition

Calories: 20kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 7gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 520mgPotassium: 620mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 520IUVitamin C: 14mgCalcium: 160mgIron: 1.4mg
Keyword Cheese, comfort food, cozy meals, one-pot, potatoes, soup, vintage recipe, winter comfort food
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