Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting dish to warm your heart and soul, my Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is just what you need. This silky, creamy soup is packed with flavor from fresh herbs and sharp cheddar cheese. It’s the kind of recipe that brings family together around the table, whether it’s a bustling weeknight or a special gathering with loved ones. The best part? It’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to favorite in my kitchen.

This soup is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly satisfying. Each spoonful offers creamy goodness and hearty chunks of potato, making it perfect for any occasion. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it might just become your favorite too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and ingredients, you’ll have this delicious soup ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and cheesy flavor – it’s a hit with everyone!
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time; it stores well in the fridge or freezer for those busy days.
• Customizable toppings: You can add your favorite garnishes, making each bowl uniquely yours.
• Comforting and filling: This soup is sure to warm you up on chilly nights or whenever you need a cozy meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe, you’ll find that the ingredients are simple and wholesome. Here’s what you need to gather:

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)

Thickening Agent

• Flour: 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

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

Fresh 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 soup is its versatility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Add more vegetables: Toss in some carrots or celery for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce if you’re in the mood for some heat.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute coconut milk instead of cream and use vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
• Mix up the cheese: Try other cheeses like Gruyère or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.

How to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Potatoes

Peel your Yukon Gold potatoes and chop them into uniform ½-inch cubes. Rinsing them under cold water removes excess starch which helps keep the soup from getting gummy. Set them aside while you sauté the aromatics.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Place a large pot over medium heat and add your butter (or olive oil/butter combo). When it’s melted and shimmering, add the finely chopped yellow onion. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened – this brings out their sweetness without browning them too much. Then toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Roux

Sprinkle all-purpose flour over your sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes; this cooks out that raw flour taste while creating a roux that will help thicken your soup.

Step 4: Add Broth Gradually

Now it’s time to whisk in your chicken or vegetable broth slowly. Scrape up any flavorful bits stuck at the bottom as you whisk continuously to avoid lumps forming. Once everything is smooth, bring it to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Cook Potatoes

Stir in those rinsed potato cubes! Bring back to a gentle simmer before covering the pot. Let it cook on medium-low heat for about 15-20 minutes until tender enough to pierce easily with a fork. Give it an occasional stir!

Step 6: Blend It Up

This step adds that signature creamy texture we love! Carefully ladle half of the soup into a standard blender – remember not to fill more than halfway! Blend until smooth before pouring back into the pot with remaining chunky soup.

Step 7: Add Creaminess

Reduce heat to low now, then slowly pour in whole milk (or half-and-half) along with heavy cream if using. Stir constantly as you add fresh parsley, chives, and thyme too! Heat gently but don’t let it boil after adding dairy – we want that smooth texture!

Step 8: Cheese Time!

Remove from heat completely before gradually adding shredded sharp cheddar cheese by handfuls. Stir continuously until fully melted before adding more – this keeps our soup creamy rather than grainy!

Step 9: Season It Right

Taste your wonderful creation! Season generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, plus cayenne pepper or smoked paprika if you’d like that little kick.

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle hot soup into bowls and garnish generously with toppings like crumbled Turkey Turkey Bacon, more cheese, sour cream, fresh herbs or croutons! Enjoy immediately because nothing beats cozy homemade comfort food!

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is truly something special, made even better when shared with friends and family around your table!

Pro Tips for Making Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Creating the perfect bowl of potato soup is all about the little details, and I’m here to help you make it delicious! Here are some pro tips that will elevate your soup to a whole new level.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme add vibrant flavor and brightness to your soup. Dried herbs can work too, but fresh ones truly enhance the taste profile.

• Don’t rush the roux: Cooking the flour with the onions and garlic is essential for a smooth texture. This step develops flavor and ensures that your soup doesn’t have a raw flour taste.

• Experiment with cheese: While sharp cheddar is fantastic, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for added depth and creaminess. Just remember to shred them fresh for the best melting quality!

• Blend carefully: When blending hot soup, ensure you allow steam to escape by covering the lid with a kitchen towel. This prevents any dangerous splatter and ensures a smooth consistency.

• Adjust seasoning gradually: As you add cheese, remember it brings saltiness to the table. Taste as you go to avoid over-seasoning your soup!

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Serving your hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup can be just as fun as making it! A beautifully presented bowl can make the meal even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas on how to serve this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives right before serving adds color and enhances freshness.
• Extra shredded cheese: A handful of melted cheese on top not only looks appealing but also gives an extra cheesy kick in every bite.
• Croutons: Crispy croutons provide a delightful crunch that complements the creamy texture of the soup.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: This classic pairing offers a crunchy texture and complements the flavors of the soup perfectly.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the potato soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots or Brussels sprouts add nutrition and flavor while bringing a pop of color to your meal.
• Cheese quesadillas: Quick and cheesy, these are perfect for dipping into your creamy soup, enhancing both flavor and satisfaction.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’re all set to enjoy a delicious bowl of hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup that warms both your heart and stomach! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time, ensuring you always have a warm bowl of comfort ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to label the container with the date, so you remember when it was made.

Freezing

• If you want to keep it longer, this soup freezes beautifully!
• Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label and date the containers, then freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• You can also microwave in increments of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I customize the Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe with different cheeses?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is recommended for its flavor and melting properties, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for different tastes.

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

To make this recipe vegan-friendly, simply substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan butter, use plant-based milk and cream alternatives (like almond or coconut milk), and choose a dairy-free cheese option.

Can I add vegetables to this potato soup?

Yes! You can easily add veggies like carrots, celery, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with onions at the beginning and adjust cooking times as needed.

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

This creamy soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even a side of roasted vegetables. It’s hearty enough to be enjoyed on its own too!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe! Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a beloved dish in any season. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a gathering with friends and family, this recipe is bound to bring warmth and smiles. Happy cooking!