Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting dish that warms both the heart and the soul, this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is just what you need. There’s something truly special about the combination of creamy potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and fragrant herbs simmering together on the stove. This soup is not only perfect for chilly evenings but also a fantastic choice for family gatherings or meal prep. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, making it one of my all-time favorites.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself after a long day or gathering friends around the dinner table, this soup is sure to bring smiles all around. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare, which means more time to relax and enjoy your loved ones!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: With its rich flavors and creamy texture, everyone will love digging into this comforting soup.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare this soup in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve—perfect for meal prep!
• Endless Customization: Feel free to play with toppings and ingredients based on what you have at home or what you enjoy.
• Deliciously Satisfying: Each spoonful is packed with flavor, making it perfect for those comfort food cravings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delicious soup, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we 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)

For the Liquid Base

• 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)

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)

For Seasoning

• 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 Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily adjust it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add Vegetables: Toss in some diced carrots or celery at the beginning with the onions for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make It Spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to give your soup an extra kick!
• Go Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut milk for regular milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives if you’re avoiding dairy.
• Change Up the Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or dill to create unique flavor profiles that suit your taste.

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, preventing your soup from becoming gummy. Setting them aside while preparing the base ensures they’re ready when you need them.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Place a large pot over medium heat and add either your butter or olive oil/butter combination. Once melted and shimmering, toss in your finely chopped yellow onion. Sauté for about five to seven minutes until softened—this process releases their natural sweetness without browning them.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Next up is our aromatic friend garlic! Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute or two until fragrant. Be cautious not to burn it; burnt garlic can turn bitter quickly.

Step 4: Create a Roux

Sprinkle all-purpose flour over those lovely sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously as it cooks for about one to two minutes; this step helps eliminate any raw flour taste while creating a roux that thickens our delicious soup.

Step 5: Incorporate Broth

Gradually whisk in your broth—be sure to scrape any flavorful bits off the bottom of the pot! Whisking prevents lumps from forming while bringing everything together into a smooth mixture that will become our comforting base.

Step 6: Cook Potatoes

Now it’s time for those cubed potatoes! Add them into your simmering mixture and stir well. Bring back to a gentle simmer before covering; let it cook on medium-low heat for about fifteen to twenty minutes until tender enough to pierce easily with a fork.

Step 7: Blend Halfway

It’s time to bring out that creamy goodness! Carefully ladle about half of your soup into a standard blender—make sure not to fill more than halfway due to steam expansion! Blend until smooth before pouring back into the pot with remaining chunky soup.

Step 8: Add Dairy

Reduce heat low now as we gently pour in whole milk (or half-and-half) alongside heavy cream if desired! Stir constantly as we add fresh herbs too—this brings everything together beautifully without letting it boil after adding dairy.

Step 9: Melt Cheese

Remove from heat entirely before gradually adding shredded sharp cheddar cheese—a handful at a time—stirring continuously until each addition melts completely! This technique keeps our cheese luscious rather than grainy!

Step10: Season & Serve

Finally!, taste that wonderful creation you’ve made! Season generously with salt & freshly ground black pepper along with optional cayenne pepper/smoked paprika if desired before ladling hot creamy goodness into bowls!

Garnish however you’d like with crumbled bacon, extra cheese…the sky’s truly the limit here! Enjoy immediately while still warm – it’s comfort food at its finest!

Pro Tips for Making Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Making a delicious potato soup is all about the little details. Here are some pro tips to ensure your soup turns out absolutely perfect!

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor. They hold their shape well during cooking, which adds heartiness to the soup.
• Sauté with Care: Make sure you sauté the onions until they are just translucent. This step enhances their sweetness without browning them too much, creating a solid flavor base for your soup.
• Gradual Cheese Addition: When adding cheese, do so gradually off the heat. This prevents the cheese from becoming grainy or clumping together, ensuring a smooth and creamy finish.
• Season as You Go: Taste your soup at various stages of cooking and adjust the salt and pepper accordingly. Remember that flavors intensify as they cook, especially with the addition of cheese.
• Blend Wisely: If you opt to blend part of your soup, do it in small batches to avoid accidents. Blending hot liquids can be tricky, so always vent your blender lid to allow steam to escape safely.

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

This comforting potato soup is not only satisfying but also visually appealing when presented well. Here are some ideas on how to serve it up beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped chives or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Extra Cheese: A handful of shredded sharp cheddar on top provides an inviting melty layer that makes each bite irresistible.
• Croutons: Adding crispy croutons gives a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy soup texture.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your cheesy soup, enhancing its comforting qualities.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing balances the richness of the soup while adding freshness.
• Steamed Broccoli: This nutritious side complements the meal beautifully and adds a splash of color on the plate.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies are an excellent way to introduce more flavors and textures alongside your hearty potato soup.

Enjoy crafting this delicious Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup! It’s perfect for cozy nights in or impressing friends at dinner gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch and enjoy it throughout the week, making your dinner planning a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• If you plan to have leftovers, avoid adding any garnishes until serving to keep them fresh.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool entirely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. For best texture, it’s recommended to not freeze with dairy added; add cream and cheese after thawing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.
• If the soup is too thick after reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

Got questions about this delicious recipe? Here are some common queries!

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

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar adds a wonderful flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of your favorites for a unique twist.

How can I make this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe vegan?

To make this soup vegan-friendly, substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan butter, use plant-based milk and cream alternatives, and replace cheese with a dairy-free cheese option or nutritional yeast for added flavor.

Can I add vegetables to this potato soup?

Definitely! You can enhance your soup by adding veggies like carrots, celery, or spinach. Just sauté them along with the onions and garlic at the beginning for extra flavor and nutrition.

What’s the best way to thicken my potato soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency without blending, simply let it simmer longer so that the potatoes break down more. Alternatively, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe as much as I do! It’s not just filling and flavorful but also brings warmth and comfort on chilly evenings. Whether you’re enjoying it alone or sharing with loved ones, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Dive into this creamy goodness and let it warm your heart—happy cooking!