Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, then this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is just what you need. There’s something incredibly comforting about a creamy potato soup loaded with rich cheddar cheese and aromatic herbs. This recipe has become a favorite in my home, especially on busy weeknights or during family gatherings when everyone craves a bowl of something hearty and satisfying.

This soup is not only delicious but also simple to make. It’s perfect for those moments when you want to whip up something quick yet impressive. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and cheesy goodness!
• Make-ahead friendly: You can easily prepare it in advance and reheat it for an effortless meal.
• Versatile toppings: Customize each bowl with your favorite garnishes for added flair.
• Comforting flavors: The combination of cheddar, garlic, and herbs creates a warm, inviting taste that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is a breeze! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create a comforting dish.

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

One of the best things about this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Add some greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese such as Gruyère or Pepper Jack for unique flavor profiles.
• Add protein: Stir in cooked shredded chicken or turkey for a heartier version!

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 helps remove excess starch which can make the soup gummy. Setting them aside ensures they are ready when you need them later!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and add your fat choice—either unsalted butter or the olive oil-butter combo. Once melted and shimmering, add the finely chopped onion. Sautéing until softened brings out their natural sweetness without browning them too much—this step lays the foundation for an incredible flavor base.

Step 3: Add Garlic & Flour

Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant—this should take about one or two minutes. Be careful not to burn it! Then sprinkle in the flour over your sautéed onions and garlic; stirring continuously helps create a roux that thickens our soup beautifully.

Step 4: Whisk in Broth

Gradually whisk in your chicken or vegetable broth while scraping any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot. This is crucial as it prevents lumps from forming. Bring it to a gentle simmer so all those wonderful flavors can meld together.

Step 5: Add Potatoes & Simmer

Now it’s time to add those rinsed potato cubes! Stir well before bringing everything back up to a gentle simmer again. Covering lets them cook evenly—just remember to stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom!

Step 6: Blend Some & Keep It Chunky

To achieve that creamy texture while keeping some potato chunks intact, ladle half of the soup into your blender (be careful with hot liquids!). Blend until smooth then pour back into the pot with what’s left behind—this will give you that cozy feel!

Step 7: Stir in Dairy & Herbs

Reduce heat to low before slowly pouring in either whole milk or half-and-half along with heavy cream if you’re using it. Stir well as you add fresh herbs; this infusion gives our soup depth! Allow everything to heat through gently without boiling.

Step 8: Cheese Time!

With everything heated through nicely, it’s time for cheese! Gradually stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese off the heat; doing so prevents graininess and helps achieve that silky finish we all love.

Step 9: Season & Serve

Finally, taste your masterpiece! Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper before serving hot into bowls garnished with your favorite toppings like crumbled Turkey Turkey Bacon or sour cream! Enjoy every cozy spoonful!

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe will surely become one of those cherished dishes you’ll return to again and again. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Making a creamy, flavorful potato soup is simple when you follow these expert tips!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality cheese will elevate the overall flavor of your soup. Fresh ingredients have vibrant flavors that dried ones just can’t replicate, making your dish more delicious.

• Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Take your time when sautéing the onions and garlic. This step builds the base flavor of the soup and ensures your aromatics are perfectly caramelized for a deeper taste.

• Adjust Thickness to Your Preference: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend more of it! Alternatively, if you like a lighter texture, blend less. This customization gives you control over how hearty you want your soup to be.

• Gradually Incorporate Dairy: Always add dairy off the heat to prevent curdling. This method ensures a smooth and creamy consistency without any graininess in your soup.

• Taste as You Go: Seasoning is key! Taste your soup at various stages to adjust salt and spices according to your preference. The cheese adds saltiness, so be mindful of that when seasoning.

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Serving this delightful potato soup is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to make your serving truly special!

Garnishes

• Crumbled Turkey Bacon: Adds a savory crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess.
• Extra Shredded Cheddar: A sprinkle on top melts slightly into the hot soup, enhancing its cheesy goodness.
• Fresh Chives or Parsley: A sprinkle of these herbs not only adds color but also brings a fresh burst of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up those rich flavors.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic combo! A gooey grilled cheese pairs wonderfully with the hearty potato soup for a comforting meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition while complementing the creamy texture of the soup.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress family and friends with your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup! Enjoy every comforting bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly so you can savor its delightful flavors longer.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container.
• Refrigerate the soup for up to 4 days.
• Make sure to label your container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Seal tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For easier thawing, consider freezing in individual portions.

Reheating

• Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
• Reheat on medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid boiling after adding any dairy to maintain creaminess.
• Add a splash of milk or water if the soup has thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that may come up while making this delicious soup!

Can I make the Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe without dairy?

Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk and heavy cream with unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk) and omit the heavy cream for a dairy-free version. The flavor will still be rich and satisfying!

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

Consider adding additional herbs like rosemary or dill for an extra flavor boost! You could also mix in other vegetables like carrots or celery when sautéing the onions.

What type of cheese works best in this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe?

Sharp cheddar is ideal for this recipe due to its bold flavor. However, feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different twist!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy 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 that brings comfort and joy. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying it solo, I encourage you to dive into this recipe. Happy cooking!