Creamy Apple-Cheddar Potato Soup
Indulge in a delightful blend of flavors with our Creamy Apple-Cheddar Potato Soup. This comforting dish combines the earthy richness of tender potatoes with the sweet tartness of fresh apples and the sharp tang of cheddar cheese. Perfect for chilly days, this velvety soup is not only easy to prepare but also makes for a heartwarming meal to share with family and friends. Enjoy it with crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete dining experience.
N/A
Servings
120
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
chopped onion
1/2 cup (chopped)
butter
1 tablespoon (melted)
medium potatoes
2 (peeled and diced)
apple cider
2 cups (liquid)
dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon (crushed)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
cayenne pepper
1 dash (to taste)
medium apple
1 (peeled and chopped)
milk
1/2 cup (liquid)
flour
2 tablespoons (all-purpose)
shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup (for melting)
Instructions
1
Peel and dice the potatoes into small, even cubes. Also, peel and chop the apple, removing the core and seeds.
2
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the chopped onions. Sauté until the onions become translucent and tender, about 5 minutes.
3
Add the diced potatoes to the saucepan along with the apple cider, crushed thyme, salt, and a dash of cayenne pepper. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes until the potatoes are slightly tender.
4
Stir in the chopped apple and continue to simmer, covered, for an additional 5 minutes, or until both the potatoes and apples are completely tender.
5
In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and flour until smooth. Gradually stir this mixture into the soup while cooking on low, continuously stirring until the soup becomes bubbly and slightly thickened.
6
Remove the saucepan from heat and slowly whisk in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Serve warm, garnished with additional cheese or chopped herbs if desired.
Nutrition Information
6g
Fat
14g
Carbs
4g
Protein
2g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Apple-Cheddar Potato Soup?
It is a comforting, velvety soup that combines the earthy richness of potatoes with the sweet-tart flavor of apples and the sharp tang of cheddar cheese.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it uses butter, milk, and cheese without any meat products.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 120 calories.
What are the best types of apples to use?
Firm apples like Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness work best in this soup.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While sharp cheddar is recommended for flavor, you can use mild cheddar, Gruyere, or Monterey Jack.
How do I thicken the soup?
The soup is thickened using a slurry made from whisking together milk and flour, which is then stirred into the simmering base.
Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, substitute the butter with oil, the milk with a plant-based alternative, and use vegan cheddar shreds.
Which potatoes should I use?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their high starch content and creamy texture when cooked.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Yes, peeling the apples is recommended to ensure the soup has a smooth and consistent texture.
How long does it take to cook?
The total cooking time is approximately 25 to 30 minutes once the vegetables are prepped.
Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
Yes, you can substitute apple juice, though apple cider provides a deeper, more robust flavor profile.
How should I store leftover soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can this soup be frozen?
Freezing is not recommended because the dairy and potato components may separate or become grainy upon thawing.
What side dishes pair well with this soup?
It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or roasted vegetables.
Is this soup gluten-free?
No, the recipe uses all-purpose flour. To make it gluten-free, use a cornstarch slurry or gluten-free flour blend.
How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?
Remove the saucepan from the heat before slowly whisking in the cheese to ensure it melts smoothly.
Can I add protein like chicken or bacon?
Absolutely! Stirring in cooked shredded chicken or topping with crispy bacon bits adds great flavor and protein.
What spices are used in this recipe?
The soup is seasoned with dried thyme, salt, and a dash of cayenne pepper for a subtle warmth.
How much fiber is in each serving?
There are approximately 2 grams of fiber per serving.
Is the soup spicy?
No, it is very mild. The dash of cayenne pepper adds depth without making the dish spicy.
Can I use heavy cream instead of milk?
Yes, substituting heavy cream for milk will result in an even richer and creamier soup.
What can I use instead of butter?
You can use olive oil or margarine to sauté the onions if butter is unavailable.
Can I use dried onions?
Fresh onions are preferred for texture, but you can substitute 2 tablespoons of dried onion flakes if necessary.
How do I know when the potatoes are done?
The potatoes are done when they are fork-tender and easily pierced without resistance.
Can I blend the soup?
Yes, if you prefer a completely smooth texture, you can use an immersion blender before adding the cheese.
How small should I dice the potatoes?
Dice them into small, even 1/2-inch cubes to ensure they cook quickly and uniformly.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, children typically enjoy the sweet and savory combination of apple and melted cheese.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, the recipe scales easily. Just ensure you use a large enough pot to accommodate the extra volume.
How much fat is in this soup?
Each serving contains 6 grams of fat.
What is the best way to reheat this soup?
Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain its creamy consistency.