Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the soul, then this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is just the ticket! There’s something truly special about a big bowl of creamy potato soup, especially when it’s packed with flavor from garlic and fresh herbs. Whether it’s a chilly weeknight or a family gathering, this soup will bring everyone together and fill your home with delightful aromas.

What sets this recipe apart is its comforting heartiness and easy preparation. You can whip it up in no time, making it perfect for busy nights when you want to serve something delicious without spending all day in the kitchen. Plus, it’s an instant crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and savory flavors, everyone from kids to adults will gobble it up.
• Customizable: You can easily add your favorite toppings or mix in different ingredients to make it your own.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this soup ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of cheddar cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs creates a taste that’s both rich and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun of cooking! For this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe, you’ll need the following:

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 for ultimate creaminess)
• Cheese: 2 cups (about 8 oz / 225g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
• 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)

Optional Garnish

• Cooked crumbled 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 flexible enough to suit your tastes! Here are some fun ideas to customize your soup:

• Add Some Veggies: Toss in some diced carrots or celery for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you love a little heat.
• Creamy Vegan Option: Substitute non-dairy milk and vegan cheese for a delicious plant-based version.
• Extra Protein: Stir in some cooked chicken or white beans for an added protein boost.

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. Rinsing them under cold water removes excess starch and helps prevent the soup from becoming too gummy. Setting them aside allows you to focus on building those wonderful flavors.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add your butter (or olive oil/butter combo). Once melted and shimmering, toss in the finely chopped onion. Sautéing the onion for about 5-7 minutes until translucent enhances its sweetness without letting it brown—this step is key for depth of flavor.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Next up is the garlic! Stir it into the pot and let it cook for another minute or two until fragrant. Keep stirring constantly so it doesn’t burn; burnt garlic can turn bitter!

Step 4: Make Your Roux

Sprinkle the flour over your sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously for about one minute to create a roux that thickens our soup beautifully while cooking out that raw flour taste.

Step 5: Whisk in Broth

Gradually whisk in your broth—take your time here! Scrape any flavorful bits off the bottom of the pot as you go. This ensures a smooth mixture free of lumps.

Step 6: Cook Your Potatoes

Add those rinsed potato cubes into your pot. Bring everything back to a gentle simmer before covering. Let it cook on medium-low heat for about fifteen minutes until your potatoes are tender enough to pierce easily with a fork.

Step 7: Blend It Up!

Here comes the fun part! Carefully ladle about half of your soup into a blender. Blend until smooth—this adds that creamy texture we love while keeping some hearty potato chunks intact when mixed back into the pot.

Step 8: Add Dairy & Herbs

Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in whole milk and heavy cream if using. Mix in fresh parsley, chives, and thyme—these bright herbs elevate our comforting dish! Heat through gently but don’t boil after adding dairy; we want our soup creamy!

Step 9: Cheese Time!

Remove from heat completely before gradually stirring in shredded cheddar cheese—do this slowly so each handful melts beautifully into your soup without becoming grainy.

Step10: Final Seasoning

Taste your creation! Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and perhaps a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika if desired; remember cheese adds some saltiness too!

Step11: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle hot soup into bowls. Don’t forget those optional toppings like crumbled bacon or extra cheese! Enjoy every warm spoonful with friends and family—you’ve made something truly special!

Pro Tips for Making Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Making a delicious potato soup doesn’t have to be daunting! With these simple tips, you can elevate your culinary experience and ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality cheese make a significant difference in flavor compared to dried or pre-packaged alternatives. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall taste and aroma of the soup.

• Don’t Rush the Cooking Process: Allow the onions to sauté until translucent and soft. This step builds a flavorful base that infuses the entire soup with warmth and depth.

• Adjust Consistency to Your Liking: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend more of it, or if you want it chunkier, blend less. This flexibility lets you customize the texture to suit your taste preferences.

• Season Gradually: Start with a little salt and pepper, then adjust after adding cheese. Since cheese contributes saltiness, this method ensures you don’t oversalt your soup while allowing for perfect seasoning.

• Serve Immediately for Best Flavor: Potato soup is best enjoyed fresh as it preserves its creamy texture and rich flavor. Reheating can change both consistency and taste, so savor it right away!

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Serving your hearty potato soup can be as enjoyable as making it! Consider these delightful presentation ideas that will impress family and friends alike.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle additional chopped parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Cheese Drizzle: Add a swirl of melted cheddar on top for visual appeal and extra cheesiness.
• Crunchy Toppings: Croutons or crispy shallots add texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the rich soup. It absorbs flavors beautifully while adding heartiness to your meal.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the creamy richness of the potato soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color, nutrition, and an earthy element that pairs well with the comforting flavors of the soup.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic pairing! The gooeyness of grilled cheese complements the creamy texture of the soup—perfect for dipping!

Enjoy crafting this delightful dish with family or friends! Your kitchen will be filled with warmth, comfort, and incredible aromas that invite everyone to gather around. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy delicious bowls of comfort whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to label your container with the date!

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• For best results, avoid freezing if you have added dairy; consider adding it during reheating instead.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth if it thickens too much.
• If using a microwave, heat in intervals and stir in between to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up while making this comforting soup!

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

Yes, while Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture, you can also use Russet or red potatoes. Just note that the final texture may vary slightly.

How can I make this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Adjust quantities as needed for thickening.

Can I add more vegetables to this potato soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

What can I use instead of cheese in this recipe?

For a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative. Keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess will differ slightly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe as much as I do! It’s a cozy dish that brings warmth and joy, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings and ingredients—make it your own! Happy cooking!