Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that warms the soul, then this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is exactly what you need! There’s something special about a bowl of creamy potato soup that invites everyone to gather around the table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The rich flavors of cheddar cheese and fresh herbs make it not just filling, but also incredibly satisfying.

This soup is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find it’s perfect for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices alike. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for those nights when time is short.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the creamy texture and cheesy flavor, so it’s an ideal meal for picky eaters.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this soup in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment.
• Customizable Flavors: Feel free to adjust the herbs and seasonings to fit your taste preferences!
• Comforting Goodness: Each spoonful brings warmth and comfort, perfect for chilly days or when you need a little pick-me-up.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You probably have most of these in your pantry already. This recipe relies on fresh flavors to create a hearty soup you’ll want to make again and again.

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)
• Optional Spices: 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

The beauty of this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe lies in its flexibility! You can easily tweak the ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal tastes.

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some diced carrots or celery for added nutrition and flavor.
• Swap the Cheese: Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a unique twist.
• Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up!
• Go Vegan: Use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives along with olive oil instead of butter for a delicious vegan 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 ½-inch cubes. Rinse the cubed potatoes under cold water to remove excess starch – this helps prevent the soup from becoming gummy. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the butter (or olive oil/butter combination). Once melted and shimmering, add the finely chopped yellow onion. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent but not browned. This step builds a base of sweet flavor that enhances your soup.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute or two until fragrant. Keep stirring continuously; burnt garlic can turn bitter quickly!

Step 4: Create the Roux

Sprinkle flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously as you cook it out for about one minute. This creates a roux that will help thicken your soup later on.

Step 5: Whisk in Broth

Gradually whisk in your choice of broth while scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the pot’s bottom. This ensures no lumps form as you bring everything together into a smooth mixture—then bring it all to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Cook Potatoes

Add the rinsed potato cubes to the pot and give it all a good stir! Bring back to simmering gently before covering with a lid; let cook for about 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.

Step 7: Blend It Up

To achieve that creamy texture while keeping some chunks, carefully ladle half of your mixture into a blender. Blend until smooth before returning it all back into your pot—just remember not to fill more than halfway!

Step 8: Stir In Dairy

Reduce heat to low now as we pour in whole milk (or half-and-half) alongside heavy cream if you’re using it! Stir well while adding fresh herbs like parsley, chives, thyme—let everything warm gently through without boiling!

Step 9: Melt That Cheese

Take your pot off heat completely! Gradually add shredded sharp cheddar cheese—melting each handful before adding more ensures creamy goodness without clumps forming.

Step 10: Season & Serve

Finally! Taste that rich deliciousness—season generously with salt & black pepper along with optional spices if desired! Ladle into bowls topped with whatever garnishes make you smile most; enjoy immediately!

And there you have it—a comforting bowl of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup ready to warm hearts and bellies! Enjoy every spoonful with friends or family gathered around!

Pro Tips for Making Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Making a fantastic potato soup is all about the little details. Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect bowl of comfort!

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor, which enhances the overall richness of the soup.

• Don’t Rush the Aromatics: Take your time sautéing the onions and garlic until they’re softened and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base that will elevate your soup immensely.

• Whisk Gradually: When adding broth, whisk it in gradually to avoid lumps. This ensures a smooth, velvety texture that makes every spoonful delightful.

• Adjust Seasoning Last: Add salt and pepper towards the end of cooking. This allows you to taste and adjust without over-seasoning at the beginning, especially since cheese adds its own saltiness.

• Serve Immediately for Best Flavor: While this soup can be stored and reheated, it’s best enjoyed fresh out of the pot when it’s hot, creamy, and full of flavor!

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! Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or enjoying a quiet meal at home, presenting this comforting dish beautifully will make it even more inviting.

Garnishes

• Extra Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of additional sharp cheddar on top adds extra melty goodness.
• Fresh Herbs: Chopped chives or parsley not only add color but also a fresh flavor that balances the richness of the soup.
• Crumpled Turkey Bacon: For those who want a bit of crunch and savory flavor, crumbled Turkey bacon makes a delicious topping that complements the creamy base.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A loaf of fresh crusty bread or soft dinner rolls is perfect for dipping into your soup, providing a satisfying contrast in texture.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the rich soup.
• Garlic Breadsticks: These are an excellent way to enhance your meal with extra garlic flavor that pairs beautifully with cheesy potato soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add another layer of depth to your meal while keeping it wholesome and nutritious.

Enjoy serving this hearty soup alongside these thoughtful additions for an unforgettable dining experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its comforting flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly so you can savor those cozy vibes anytime!

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.
• If you have added garnishes, it’s best to store them separately to maintain their texture.

Freezing

• Cool the soup completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags (leaving space for expansion).
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label each container with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if necessary for creaminess.
• Alternatively, use the microwave, heating in short bursts, stirring occasionally until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious soup!

Can I adjust the thickness of the Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe?

Yes! If you prefer a thicker soup, blend more of the mixture. For a thinner consistency, add additional broth or milk while reheating.

What can I substitute for dairy in the Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe?

You can use plant-based milk alternatives like almond, oat, or soy milk. For creaminess, try coconut cream or a non-dairy sour cream.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute butter with vegan butter or olive oil and use plant-based cheese options along with vegetable broth for a delightful vegan version.

How do I enhance flavor in my Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe?

Adding spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper boosts flavor. You might also incorporate sautéed mushrooms or leeks for an extra kick!

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just remember to reheat it gently!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe brings warmth and joy to your table! It’s not just about filling your belly—it’s about creating memories around good food. Enjoy making this hearty delight, and don’t hesitate to share it with friends and family. Happy cooking!