Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting bowl of goodness that warms both the heart and the soul, then my Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is just what you need! This soup is like a cozy hug on a chilly day, filled with creamy richness and the delightful flavor of garlic and herbs. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s so simple to whip up that you’ll find yourself making it again and again!

What makes this potato soup truly special is its ability to satisfy everyone at the table. It’s hearty enough to be a meal on its own, yet versatile enough to pair beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Trust me, once you try this soup, it will become one of your favorites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: You’ll only need common pantry staples and fresh herbs to create this deliciousness.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and cheesy flavor.
• Quick Prep Time: The entire process takes under an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare this soup in advance and reheat it for an effortless meal later.
• Customizable Toppings: Personalize each bowl with your favorite garnishes for that extra touch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything you need:

For the Soup Base

• 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

• Broth: 4 cups (32 fl oz / 950 ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• Milk: 2 cups (16 fl oz / 475 ml) whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
• Cream: 1/2 cup (4 fl oz / 120 ml) heavy cream (optional but recommended for ultimate creaminess)

Cheese & Herbs

• 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 & Garnish

• Seasoning:
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground (or to taste)
• Optional Garnish:
• Cooked crumbled bacon
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• More fresh chives or parsley
• Croutons

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix it up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add Veggies: Throw in some diced carrots or celery for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a kick!
• Change Up the Cheese: Try different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist.
• Go Vegan: Substitute non-dairy milk and cheese alternatives to make this soup plant-based.

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 cubes. Rinsing them under cold water removes excess starch which helps keep the soup from getting gummy. Set them aside while we get started on our flavorful base.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your chosen fat—whether it’s butter or a mix of olive oil and butter. Once melted and shimmering, toss in the finely chopped onion. Sauté it for about five to seven minutes until softened and translucent but not browned. This step really brings out their natural sweetness!

Step 3: Add Garlic & Flour

Next up, add those minced garlic cloves! Cook them for another minute or two until fragrant—just be careful not to burn them as they can turn bitter quickly. After that, sprinkle in the flour while stirring continuously; cooking it briefly creates a roux which will help thicken our lovely soup.

Step 4: Incorporate Broth

Gradually whisk in your broth of choice—scraping up any flavorful bits sticking to the bottom of the pot as you go. Whisking prevents lumps from forming; once smooth, bring it all to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Cook the Potatoes

Time to add those rinsed potato cubes! Stir them in well before bringing everything back to a simmer. Cover your pot and let them cook until tender—around fifteen to twenty minutes should do it! Stir occasionally so nothing sticks.

Step 6: Blend It Up

Now comes the fun part! Carefully ladle about half of your soup into a blender—be sure not to fill it more than halfway due to steam buildup. Blend until smooth then pour it back into your pot with the remaining chunky mixture.

Step 7: Stir in Dairy & Herbs

Reduce heat to low before slowly pouring in milk and heavy cream if using; stir gently while adding fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme. Heat through gently without boiling after adding dairy—it keeps everything creamy!

Step 8: Cheese It Up

Remove from heat completely before gradually adding shredded cheddar cheese—stirring continuously until fully melted before each addition ensures smoothness without graininess.

Step 9: Final Seasoning

Give your masterpiece a taste test! Adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, or even cayenne pepper if desired—you want everything balanced just right.

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy

Ladle that heavenly creamy soup into bowls and garnish generously with your favorite toppings like crumbled bacon, extra cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt—all optional but oh-so-delicious!

And there you have it—a dish that’s sure to become part of your regular rotation! Enjoy every last drop of this comforting Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Making a creamy, savory potato soup is easier than you might think! Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality cheese make a big difference in flavor. They elevate the dish and provide a vibrant taste that dried or pre-packaged alternatives can’t match.
• Don’t rush the sautéing: Take your time when cooking the onions and garlic. Sautéing them until they’re soft and aromatic builds a rich base for your soup, enhancing its overall depth of flavor.
• Control the heat: After adding dairy, keep the heat low to prevent curdling. This ensures your soup remains creamy and smooth rather than grainy or separated.
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Since cheese adds saltiness, taste as you go to avoid over-seasoning. This allows you to achieve the perfect balance of flavors without overwhelming your palate.
• Blend with care: When blending hot liquids, always vent the lid to allow steam to escape. This prevents pressure build-up and reduces the risk of splattering hot soup all over your kitchen.

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

This delicious potato soup is not just a comfort food; it’s also visually appealing and can be dressed up in various ways! Here are some ideas to present this delightful dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Crumbled bacon (optional): Adds a crunchy texture and smoky flavor that complements the creaminess of the soup.
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese: A sprinkle on top melts slightly into the hot soup, creating an inviting look and enhancing cheesiness.
• Fresh herbs: A few sprigs of parsley or chives add vibrant color and freshness, making the presentation pop.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm baguette or sourdough loaf is perfect for dipping into the soup, adding a satisfying crunch alongside its creaminess.
• Simple green salad: Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup while balancing out your meal.
• Garlic breadsticks: These buttery, garlicky sticks are great for soaking up every last bit of delicious soup, making them an irresistible pairing.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional nutrients and textures that complement this hearty dish beautifully.

Enjoy crafting this comforting bowl of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, whether on a cozy night in or shared with friends at a gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, allowing the flavors to develop even more. Store it in the refrigerator or freezer, making your mealtime stress-free.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For best flavor, reheat only the amount you plan to eat.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Add a splash of milk or broth if it thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use other types of cheese in this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives a wonderful flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different taste experience.

How can I thicken my Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe without using cream?

If you want a lighter version, simply increase the amount of potatoes or add more flour when making the roux. You can also blend more of the soup to achieve a thicker texture without heavy cream.

Can I make this soup vegan-friendly?

Yes! Substitute butter with olive oil or coconut oil, use plant-based milk and heavy cream alternatives, and ensure you select a dairy-free cheese option.

What can I serve with my Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, salads, or even grilled vegetables for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup! Its warm, comforting flavors make it perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings with friends and family. Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings and enjoy every spoonful! Happy cooking!