Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that wraps you in comfort like a warm hug, then you’ve come to the right place! This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is a favorite in my home, especially during chilly evenings or when I need something quick yet satisfying. The creamy texture combined with the savory flavors of cheddar and garlic makes this soup not just a meal but an experience. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where everyone can gather around the table and enjoy a bowl filled with love.

This recipe is truly special because it’s simple enough for anyone to make, yet it tastes like you’ve spent hours crafting it. Plus, who doesn’t love a hearty soup that can warm you from the inside out?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will delight in the creamy goodness of this potato soup, making it a hit at any dinner table.
• Versatile: Customize your toppings and add-ins to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge – it tastes even better the next day!
• Comforting Flavors: The combination of cheddar cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs creates an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you probably already have on hand. It all comes together beautifully to create a rich flavor profile.

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 bacon
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• More fresh chives or parsley
• Croutons

Variations

One of the best things about this potato soup is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some diced carrots or celery along with the onions for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make It Spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Herb Swaps: Experiment with different herbs like dill or rosemary if you want to change up the flavor profile.
• Creamy Vegan Option: Substitute dairy products with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor without cheese.

How to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Potatoes

Peel your Yukon Gold potatoes and chop them into uniform cubes about half an inch in size. Rinsing them under cold water helps remove excess starch which can make your soup gummy. Set those aside while we work on building our base.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and add in your butter or olive oil mixture. Once it’s melted and shimmering—this is key—add your finely chopped yellow onion. Sauté them for about five to seven minutes until they’re softened but not browned; this brings out their natural sweetness.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Next up is the garlic! Add your minced cloves to the pot and cook them for another one to two minutes while stirring constantly. You want those fragrant aromas wafting through your kitchen but be careful not to burn them!

Step 4: Create Your Roux

Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over your sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously as you cook this mixture for one to two minutes; this creates a roux that will help thicken our soup nicely without any raw flour taste.

Step 5: Incorporate Broth

Now it’s time to whisk in your broth gradually—this helps prevent lumps from forming as you scrape any flavorful bits off the bottom of the pot. Once everything is smooth, bring it all to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Cook Potatoes

Add those rinsed potato cubes into your pot and give everything a good stir. Return everything back to a gentle simmer again then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover it up and let it cook away for about fifteen to twenty minutes until those potatoes are fork-tender!

Step 7: Blend It Up

To get that signature creamy texture while still keeping some hearty chunks, carefully ladle half of your soup into a blender. Blend until smooth—remember safety first! Always vent your blender lid with a kitchen towel so steam can escape safely before pouring it back into the pot with remaining chunky soup.

Step 8: Add Dairy

Reduce heat again to low before slowly pouring in whole milk (or half-and-half) along with heavy cream if you’re using it. Stir constantly as you mix in those lovely fresh herbs—parsley, chives, thyme—and let everything gently heat through without boiling.

Step 9: Melt Cheese In

Remove that pot from heat completely! Gradually add shredded sharp cheddar cheese by handfuls while stirring continuously until each portion melts smoothly into our delicious soup.

Step10: Season To Taste

Give everything one last taste test! Season generously with salt as needed along with freshly ground black pepper—and if you’re feeling adventurous—a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika offers just the right amount of warmth.

Step11: Serve & Enjoy

Scoop generous portions into bowls while garnishing with whatever toppings make your heart sing! Crumbled bacon? Extra cheese? A dollop of sour cream? Go wild! Serve hot and enjoy every comforting spoonful!

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is more than just food; it’s about gathering around warmth shared among friends and family on chilly nights. So grab that spoon—you’re going to love this one!

Pro Tips for Making Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Making a delicious potato soup is all about the little details, and I’m here to help you make it perfect!

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal because they are creamy and hold their shape well. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets, as they tend to break down too much in soup.

• Don’t rush the onions and garlic: Sautéing them until they’re soft and fragrant builds a flavor foundation for your soup. This step enhances the overall taste and gives your soup that comforting aroma.

• Blend carefully: If you’re using a blender, make sure to vent it properly to prevent any splashes or burns. Alternatively, use an immersion blender for easier blending directly in the pot!

• Add cheese off the heat: This prevents the cheese from becoming grainy or clumping together. It allows for a smooth and creamy texture that will make every spoonful delightful.

• Taste as you go: Seasoning is key! Always taste your soup before serving to ensure it’s perfectly balanced. Adjust salt, pepper, and other spices based on your preference—this way, you’ll create a dish that’s uniquely yours.

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Serving this hearty potato soup is just as important as making it! A lovely presentation can elevate your meal even more.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Extra cheese on top will melt slightly into the hot soup, enhancing its creaminess and adding an extra cheesy bite.
• Croutons: Toasted bread pieces provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of the soup.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm baguette or sourdough loaf is perfect for dipping into your creamy soup, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
• Garden salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots or Brussels sprouts complement this dish wonderfully while adding some healthy elements to your meal.
• Grilled cheese sandwiches: A classic pairing that never goes out of style! The gooey, melty cheese alongside crispy bread makes for an indulgent side that kids and adults alike will love.

Enjoy crafting this delightful dish—it’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious soup:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing as outlined below.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool entirely before pouring it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Leave some headspace as the soup will expand as it freezes.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful soup.

Can I use different types of cheese in the Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar cheese is recommended for its flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may affect the overall taste and creaminess of the soup.

How do I make the Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, substitute butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Use non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk) instead of whole milk, and skip heavy cream or use coconut cream for a creamy texture. Finally, select a vegan cheese that melts well!

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

This comforting soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. You could also serve it with grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic combo!

Can I add more vegetables to my Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, celery, or even spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the onions at the beginning of the recipe.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe as much as I do! It’s not just any soup; it’s a warm hug in a bowl filled with rich flavors and comforting ingredients. Perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a little pick-me-up. Remember, cooking is all about enjoying the process and sharing joy with those around you. Happy cooking!