Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that wraps you in warmth and flavor, then my Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is just the ticket! This soup is rich and creamy, packed with delicious cheddar cheese and aromatic herbs that create a symphony of flavors. It’s a go-to recipe for cozy family dinners or busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending all day in the kitchen. Each spoonful feels like a warm hug, making it perfect for any occasion!

Not only is this soup satisfying, but it’s also easy to make. You can whip it up in under an hour, and it’s even better as leftovers the next day! Whether you’re serving it at a casual gathering or just enjoying a quiet night in, this potato soup will surely delight everyone around your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and ingredients, you’ll have this soup ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will love the cheesy goodness of this hearty soup.
• Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep or freezing, so you can enjoy it whenever you crave comfort food.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of garlic, cheddar, and fresh herbs makes every bite unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delicious dish!

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

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

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to make the soup your own.

• Add vegetables: Toss in diced carrots or celery for extra nutrition and flavor.
• For a spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.
• Swap the protein: Use cooked shredded chicken instead of turkey bacon for added heartiness.
• Make it vegan: Substitute dairy with plant-based milk and cream along with nutritional yeast for cheesiness.

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 about half an inch thick. Rinsing them under cold water helps remove excess starch, which prevents the soup from becoming gummy later on. Set those aside; we’re off to a great start!

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your butter—or the olive oil/butter combo if you’re going that route. Once melted and shimmering, toss in your finely chopped onion. Sauté these beauties for about five to seven minutes until they’re softened and translucent but not browned. This step releases their natural sweetness!

Step 3: Add Garlic

Next up is the minced garlic! Stir it into the pot and let it cook for another minute or two until fragrant. Be sure to keep stirring; burnt garlic can turn bitter quickly—yikes!

Step 4: Create the Roux

Sprinkle that flour over your sautéed onions and garlic mixture. Stir continuously and let it cook for about one to two minutes; this helps get rid of any raw flour taste while creating a roux that thickens our delicious soup.

Step 5: Whisk in Broth

Gradually whisk in your chicken or vegetable broth bit by bit. As you do this, remember to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck on the bottom; that’s where all the magic happens! Once combined and smooth, bring everything to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Cook Potatoes

Now it’s time for those lovely potato cubes! Add them into the pot, stir well, cover it up, and let everything simmer gently on medium-low heat for about fifteen to twenty minutes until they’re fork-tender.

Step 7: Blend Halfway

Ready to achieve that creamy texture? Carefully ladle half of the soup into a blender—don’t fill it more than halfway! Securely cover with a towel to allow steam escape while blending until smooth. Pour that back into your pot along with any remaining chunky goodness.

Step 8: Stir in Dairy

Turn down the heat low now! Slowly pour in your whole milk—and heavy cream if you’re using it—while stirring constantly. Toss in those fresh herbs too! Let everything gently heat through for about five minutes without boiling; we want creamy perfection here!

Step 9: Melt Cheese

Off heat completely now! Gradually add your shredded cheddar cheese by handfuls while stirring until each addition melts before adding more. This prevents graininess—trust me; you want silky smoothness!

Step 10: Season & Serve

Taste test time! Season generously with salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne if desired. Remember—the cheese adds saltiness too! Then ladle your hot creamy goodness into bowls topped with crumbled Turkey Turkey Bacon or Greek yogurt as desired. Enjoy immediately!

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is sure to become a favorite at your table just like it has at mine!

Pro Tips for Making Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Making this soup is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you create the perfect bowl every time!

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor. They hold up well in soups without falling apart.

• Don’t rush the sautéing: Take your time when cooking the onions and garlic. Sautéing them slowly allows their natural sugars to caramelize, enhancing the overall flavor of the soup.

• Be cautious with blending: When blending hot liquids, always leave the lid slightly ajar to let steam escape. This prevents pressure buildup, keeping you safe while achieving that creamy consistency.

• Gradually add cheese off heat: Adding cheese while the pot is off the heat ensures it melts smoothly into the soup without becoming grainy, resulting in a luxurious texture.

• Taste as you go: Since different cheeses vary in saltiness, tasting your soup at different stages allows you to adjust seasoning effectively for that perfect balance.

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

This hearty potato soup is not only delicious but also visually appealing when served right! Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives adds color and freshness, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
• Extra cheese: A handful of shredded cheddar on top creates an inviting melted layer that promises cheesy goodness with every spoonful.
• Crispy toppings: Crumbled Turkey Bacon or croutons provide a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Toasted slices of garlic bread make a perfect companion, allowing you to soak up every last drop of soup.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients to your meal while complementing the comforting nature of the soup.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: For a classic pairing, serve with gooey grilled cheese sandwiches that can be dipped into the warm soup for an extra treat!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup will be a hit at any gathering or cozy night in. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down completely first.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
• Note: The texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.
• You may need to add a splash of milk or broth if it thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe:

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

Absolutely! You can substitute the butter with plant-based butter or olive oil, use vegetable broth, and replace dairy with coconut milk or nut milk options for a creamy texture.

How do I thicken my Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, simply blend more of the soup until smooth or add a bit more flour when you’re cooking the onions and garlic.

Can I add other vegetables to this potato soup?

Yes! Feel free to mix in vegetables like carrots, celery, or kale for extra nutrition and flavor. Just adjust your cooking time accordingly.

What’s the best way to serve this potato soup?

This soup is delicious served hot with toppings like crumbled Turkey Turkey Bacon, fresh herbs, or even some crusty bread on the side for dipping.

How long does this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it can last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup as much as I do! Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a comforting dish that warms the soul. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring a bowl all by yourself, it’s sure to bring joy. Don’t hesitate to experiment with toppings and variations to make it your own. Happy cooking!