Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy bowl of comfort on a chilly evening, the Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is just what you need! This recipe has been a cherished favorite in my home, perfect for those busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want to serve something warm and satisfying. The rich, creamy texture combined with the flavors of garlic and herbs makes it a dish that everyone will love.

Imagine gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing stories while savoring this delightful soup. It’s not just filling; it’s a hug in a bowl that warms your heart and nourishes your soul!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: This soup comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!
• Family-friendly appeal: With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, even picky eaters will ask for seconds.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare this soup in advance and simply reheat it when you’re ready to enjoy.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of cheddar, garlic, and fresh herbs creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone raving.
• Customizable toppings: Dress it up with your favorite garnishes for an extra touch of flair!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients! Each one plays an important role in bringing this soup to life. Here’s what you’ll 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)

For Flavor

• 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

• Salt: 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground (or to taste)
• Cayenne or Paprika: Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (optional, for a hint of warmth)

Optional Garnish

• Cooked crumbled 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 wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Add more veggies: Toss in chopped carrots or celery along with the onions for added nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
• Make it lighter: Use low-fat milk and skip the heavy cream for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for unique tastes.

How to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by peeling your Yukon Gold potatoes and cutting them into uniform ½-inch cubes. Rinsing them under cold water helps remove excess starch which can make the soup gummy. Setting them aside ensures they’re ready when you need them!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add your chosen fat—either butter alone or a mix of olive oil and butter. Once melted and shimmering, toss in the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until softened and translucent. This step builds a flavorful base by bringing out the natural sweetness of the onion.

Step 3: Add the Garlic

Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute or two until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn—it can turn bitter quickly! This aromatic duo sets up an irresistible flavor profile.

Step 4: Make Your Roux

Sprinkle the flour over your sautéed mixture and stir continuously for about two minutes. This creates a roux that thickens your soup beautifully while cooking out any raw flour taste.

Step 5: Whisk in Broth

Gradually whisk in your broth while scraping up any delicious bits stuck to the bottom of the pot—those are packed with flavor! Keep whisking until everything is smooth before bringing it to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Cook Your Potatoes

Add those rinsed potato cubes to your pot and stir well. Bring everything back to a gentle simmer before covering and letting it cook for about 15–20 minutes. You want those potatoes tender enough to pierce easily with a fork!

Step 7: Blend It Up

To achieve that creamy texture while keeping some hearty potato chunks intact, carefully ladle half of the soup into a blender. Blend until smooth then return it back to the pot. Remember to leave room at the top of your blender lid to let steam escape—safety first!

Step 8: Stir in Dairy

Now reduce heat to low and slowly pour in whole milk and heavy cream if you’re using it. Stir constantly as you add fresh parsley, chives, and thyme. Allow everything to heat gently without boiling—it keeps that lovely creamy texture intact!

Step 9: Melt in Cheese

Remove from heat entirely before gradually adding shredded cheddar cheese by handfuls. Stir well between each addition until fully melted—this prevents graininess and ensures creamy goodness throughout.

Step 10: Season & Serve

Give your soup a taste test! Adjust seasoning with salt, freshly ground black pepper, or cayenne if desired. Ladle into bowls and garnish generously with your choice of toppings like crumbled Turkey Bacon or extra cheese.

Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Making this potato soup is not only simple but also incredibly rewarding! Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time.

• Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting. Freshly shredding your cheddar will give you that delicious creamy texture we all love.

• Don’t skip rinsing the potatoes: Rinsing the cubed potatoes helps remove excess starch, which can make the soup gummy. This step is crucial for achieving a silky-smooth finish.

• Blend with caution: When blending hot liquids, always allow steam to escape and don’t fill the blender more than halfway. This prevents messy spills and ensures a safe blending process.

• Season in layers: Taste your soup as you go and adjust the seasoning at different stages. This will enhance the flavors throughout the dish, making it more vibrant and delicious.

• Customize thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend more of the mixture; if you like it thinner, simply add a bit more broth or milk until desired consistency is achieved!

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup makes for a cozy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or at a gathering with friends, here are some ideas on how to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives adds a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the soup.
• Extra cheese: A generous handful of shredded cheddar on top just before serving creates an inviting appearance and enhances flavor.
• Croutons: Crunchy croutons provide a delightful texture contrast and are perfect for those who love a little crunch in their creamy soup.

Side Dishes

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing adds brightness and balances out the richness of the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. It’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser!
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color to your meal while adding extra nutrition. Try carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers tossed with olive oil and herbs.
• Stuffed Breadsticks: Cheesy stuffed breadsticks make an excellent partner to your potato soup. They are fun to eat and great for scooping up every last drop!

Enjoy crafting this beautiful dish and sharing it with loved ones!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a big batch, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to handle leftovers and make the most of your delicious soup.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for storage.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• If the soup thickens too much after freezing, add a splash of milk or broth while reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this hearty soup recipe.

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

Yes! You can substitute whole milk with a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk and replace heavy cream with a plant-based cream for a creamy texture.

What can I use instead of cheddar cheese in the Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe?

For a different flavor, try using Gruyère or Monterey Jack cheese. Vegan cheese alternatives are also great options if you’re looking for a dairy-free version.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe?

You can add additional herbs like rosemary or sage, or toss in some sautéed vegetables like carrots or celery for added depth and nutrition.

Is this soup suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! Just ensure you let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It keeps well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Can I add meat to the Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe?

Certainly! Cooked shredded chicken or turkey would work beautifully in this soup. Just stir them in during the final stages of cooking to warm through.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy evenings at home. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with friends and family. Happy cooking!