Irish Potato Leek Cheddar (Printable)
Creamy blend of potatoes, leeks, and Irish cheddar for a rich, comforting dish with savory depth.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
02 - 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only, cleaned and sliced
03 - 1 medium yellow onion, diced
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped plus extra for garnish
→ Dairy
06 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
07 - 1 cup Irish cheddar cheese, grated
08 - 1 cup whole milk
09 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
→ Pantry
10 - 4 cups vegetable broth
11 - 1 teaspoon salt plus more to taste
12 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
13 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg optional
# How-To Steps:
01 - Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add leeks, onion, and garlic. Sauté 5–6 minutes until soft and fragrant, taking care not to brown.
02 - Add diced potatoes to the pot and cook 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally to coat evenly.
03 - Pour in vegetable broth, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered 20–25 minutes until potatoes are completely tender.
04 - Remove from heat. Puree with immersion blender until smooth and creamy, or blend in batches using countertop blender and return to pot.
05 - Stir in milk and cream, then add grated cheddar. Heat gently, stirring continuously until cheese melts completely and soup becomes velvety.
06 - Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives and extra cheddar if desired.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The cheddar creates these velvety ribbons that transform simple ingredients into something luxurious
- It comes together faster than you'd think, but tastes like it simmered all day
02 -
- Don't rush sautéing the leeks because that sweetness is what balances the sharp cheddar
- Adding cheese to boiling soup can cause it to separate and turn grainy
03 -
- Clean leeks thoroughly by slicing them lengthwise and rinsing between layers
- Grate your own cheese instead of buying pre shredded for better melting