1- Creating this cheesy potato soup at home is a breeze with these simple steps, starting from prepping your ingredients to serving a hot bowl. Begin by melting the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat, which sets the foundation for the soup’s rich flavor. Follow along to achieve that perfect creamy and chunky texture everyone loves.

2- Next, add the chopped Vidalia onion and sauté for 3 minutes until it softens, then toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes. This builds a savory base that makes the soup so inviting. Now, stir in the potatoes and chicken broth, bring it to a boil, and simmer for 12 to 14 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

3- After that, transfer 1 cup of the mixture to a blender and puree until smooth, then return it to the saucepan. Stir in the milk and heat gently until hot, avoiding a boil to keep the texture creamy. Season with salt and pepper, mix in 1 cup of the shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese until it melts, and ladle into bowls. Top with the remaining ¼ cup cheese and optional garnishes like crumbled bacon and chopped chives.