Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, filling dish that warms both the heart and tummy, then you’re in for a treat with this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe. This soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a cherished favorite in my kitchen.

Every spoonful is packed with tender potatoes, savory garlic, and delightful herbs that come together in a bowl of comfort. Whether you’re serving it as an entrée or pairing it with crusty bread, this soup never disappoints!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this soup is great even on your busiest days.
• Kid-friendly: The cheesy goodness makes it a hit for kids and adults alike. Everyone will be asking for seconds!
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.
• Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! This recipe uses everyday items that you probably already have in your pantry and fridge. Ready? Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Soup

• Potatoes: 2.5 lbs (about 1.1 kg) Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed into ½-inch pieces (about 6-7 medium potatoes)
• Fat: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter OR 3 tablespoons olive oil + 1 tablespoon butter
• Aromatics:
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1.5 cups)
  • 5-6 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
• Flour: 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (helps thicken the soup)
• Liquid Base:
  • 4 cups (32 fl oz / 950 ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 cups (16 fl oz / 475 ml) whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
  • 1/2 cup (4 fl oz / 120 ml) heavy cream (optional, but recommended for ultimate creaminess)
• Cheese: 2 cups (about 8 oz / 225g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded (avoid pre-shredded for better melting)
• Herbs:
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• Seasoning:
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground (or to taste)
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (optional, for a hint of warmth)

Optional Garnish

• Cooked crumbled Turkey Turkey Bacon
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• More fresh chives or parsley
• Croutons

Variations

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is versatile enough to suit your mood and pantry! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add extra veggies: Toss in some chopped carrots or celery during the onion sauté for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce if you love a kick.
• Swap the cheese: Try using Gruyère or Monterey Jack cheese for different flavor profiles.
• Creamy vegan option: Substitute dairy with plant-based milk and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

How to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Peel your Yukon Gold potatoes and chop them into uniform ½-inch cubes. Rinsing them under cold water helps remove excess starch which can make the soup gummy. Set those aside while we work on building flavors!

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the butter (or olive oil/butter combo). Once melted and shimmering, add in your finely chopped onion. Sauté until softened and translucent—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. This step brings out their natural sweetness without browning.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Next up is the garlic! Stir in your minced garlic and cook for another minute or two until fragrant. Just be cautious not to let it burn; burnt garlic can turn bitter!

Step 4: Create the Roux

Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over those lovely onions and garlic. Stir continuously for about a minute—this cooks out that raw flour taste and helps thicken our soup later on.

Step 5: Incorporate Broth

Gradually whisk in your chicken or vegetable broth while scraping any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot. Whisking prevents lumps from forming! Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Add Potatoes

Now it’s time to add your rinsed potato cubes! Stir well before bringing everything back to a gentle simmer again. Cover it up and let it cook until those potatoes are tender—this should take about 15-20 minutes.

Step 7: Blend Part of the Soup

To create that creamy texture while keeping some hearty potato chunks, carefully ladle about half of the soup into a blender. Make sure to vent it slightly by removing the center cap while covering with a towel—this lets steam escape safely as you blend until smooth.

Step 8: Combine & Heat

Return your blended mixture back into the pot along with remaining chunky soup. Lower the heat before slowly pouring in whole milk (or half-and-half) along with heavy cream if you’re using it! Stir in fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme while allowing everything to heat through gently.

Step 9: Finish with Cheese

Remove from heat completely before gradually adding shredded sharp cheddar cheese—stirring after each handful until fully melted ensures creamy perfection without graininess.

Step 10: Season & Serve

Taste your creation! Season generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and perhaps that pinch of cayenne pepper if desired. Ladle into bowls and garnish as you please with toppings like crumbled turkey bacon or extra cheese.

Enjoy every spoonful of warmth from this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe! It’s comforting food at its finest that’s sure to please anyone gathered around your table!

Pro Tips for Making Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Creating the perfect potato soup is all about attention to detail, and with these simple tips, you’ll be on your way to a deliciously creamy masterpiece.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor. Fresh cheddar melts beautifully, while fresh herbs add brightness and aroma to each bowl.

• Don’t Skip Rinsing Potatoes: Rinsing your cubed potatoes helps remove excess starch, which can lead to a gummy texture in your soup. This simple step ensures a smoother, creamier finish.

• Blend Carefully: When blending hot soup, always vent the lid with a kitchen towel to avoid steam buildup. This keeps you safe and prevents messy spills while achieving that desired creamy consistency.

• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Since cheese can add saltiness to the soup, taste as you go! This allows you to find the perfect balance of flavors without overpowering the dish.

• Garnish Generously: Don’t hold back on toppings! A mix of textures and flavors from garnishes enhances your soup visually and adds delightful contrasts that make every bite special.

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Serving this hearty soup is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary dishes. With a few simple touches, you can transform a cozy meal into an inviting feast!

Garnishes

• Fresh Chives or Parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped chives or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the soup.
• Extra Shredded Cheddar: Add more cheese on top for those who crave an extra cheesy bite! It melts beautifully over the warm soup.
• Croutons: Crunchy croutons provide a delightful contrast in texture and are perfect for scooping up that creamy goodness.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is ideal for dipping into the soup. Its chewy texture complements the creamy soup perfectly.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the potato soup.
• Steamed Vegetables: Brightly colored steamed vegetables like broccoli or carrots not only add nutrition but also bring vibrant colors to your meal.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: For a comforting combination, serve alongside crispy grilled cheese sandwiches for that classic pairing that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Enjoy creating this delicious Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe! It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re warming up on a chilly day or hosting friends for dinner. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, which makes weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store and reheat your scrumptious soup.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely at room temperature before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• For added freshness, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the soup before sealing the container.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the soup cool entirely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label each container with the date for easy tracking.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave some space at the top of the container as it will expand when frozen.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Gently reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If the soup becomes too thick after freezing, add a splash of milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this hearty recipe!

Can I make the Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk and heavy cream with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or coconut cream. Just make sure to use a dairy-free cheese that melts well for that cheesy flavor!

How long does the Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Just be sure to reheat it gently!

Can I adjust the ingredients in this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or celery for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also swap out herbs based on your preference; dill or rosemary could add a delightful twist!

Is it possible to make this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe vegan?

Certainly! Use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk along with vegan cheese options. This will transform your soup into a delicious vegan version without sacrificing taste!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe as much as I do! It’s perfect for cozy nights in and is sure to warm your heart as well as your belly. Don’t hesitate to experiment with toppings and enjoy every creamy spoonful. Happy cooking!