- Heat the butter in a large soup pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute, taking care not to burn it.
3. Add the Vegetables and Stock
- Add the diced potatoes, carrots, and celery to the pot.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring the vegetables are fully submerged.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Blend the Soup
- Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches, then return it to the pot.
- For a chunkier texture, blend only half the soup and leave the rest as is.
5. Thicken and Season
- In a small bowl, mix the flour with a few tablespoons of water to create a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the soup and cook over low heat until the soup thickens slightly.
- Add the milk (or cream) and season with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir well and let the soup simmer gently for 5 more minutes.
6. Prepare the Cheesy Toast
- Preheat your broiler or oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spread softened butter over each slice of bread, and sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder if using.
- Top each slice with a generous amount of grated cheddar cheese.
- Place the bread slices on a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
7. Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the hot potato soup into bowls.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve with the cheesy toast on the side or place a piece on top of the soup for a decadent presentation.
Tips for Success
- Customize the Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses for the toast, such as Gruyère, mozzarella, or Parmesan, to create unique flavor combinations.
- Enhance the Soup: Add crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream as toppings for extra richness.
- Make It Heartier: Stir in cooked sausage, diced ham, or cooked chicken for added protein.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to adjust consistency.
Why Potato Soup with Cheesy Toast?
This dish is a beautiful combination of simplicity and comfort. The creamy potato soup is satisfying on its own, but the cheesy toast elevates the experience, making it feel special. Whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself, this meal delivers warmth, flavor, and a sense of home.
Enjoy a bowl of Potato Soup with Cheesy Toast for the ultimate cozy experience—perfect for cold evenings or when you need a comforting pick-me-up.
