Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish to warm your heart and fill your belly, this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is just what you need. It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whenever I make this soup, I’m reminded of chilly evenings spent with loved ones, huddled around the table, bowls steaming in front of us.

This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s not only delicious but also simple to prepare. You can whip it up quickly after a long day or make a big batch for meal prep. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll want to keep it close as one of your go-to recipes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a hearty pot of soup simmering on the stove in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love this creamy and cheesy soup – it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a weekend gathering, this soup fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This soup stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer, making it easy to enjoy later.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create this delightful soup! You probably have most of these items in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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, but recommended for ultimate creaminess)
• 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:
• 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

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with the flavors and ingredients. Here are some tasty variations:

• Add Some Veggies: Toss in diced carrots or celery while sautéing your onions for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make It Spicy: For those who like a kick, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
• Creamy Vegan Option: Substitute the dairy with almond milk and coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a vegan-friendly version!
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary or basil for an aromatic twist.

How to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prep 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. This step is crucial for achieving that smooth texture we all love!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Place a large pot over medium heat and add your choice of fat—either butter or olive oil with butter. Once melted and shimmering, toss in the finely chopped onion and sauté for about five to seven minutes until softened and translucent. This process releases their natural sweetness and creates a flavorful base.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Now it’s time to add the minced garlic! Stir it in and cook for another minute or two until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it; burnt garlic can turn bitter quickly!

Step 4: Make Your Roux

Sprinkle the flour over your sautéed onions and garlic while stirring continuously. Cook this mixture for about one to two minutes – this forms a roux that will help thicken our soup beautifully.

Step 5: Incorporate Broth

Gradually whisk in your choice of broth while scraping up any bits stuck at the bottom of the pot – those little flavors are pure gold! Keep whisking until everything is smooth before bringing it all to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Cook Potatoes

Add those rinsed potato cubes into the pot and give everything a good stir! Bring back to simmering then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover with a lid and let it cook away for about fifteen to twenty minutes until tender enough to pierce easily with a fork.

Step 7: Blend It Up

Here comes my favorite part! To achieve that creamy texture while keeping some potato chunks intact, carefully ladle half of the soup into your blender. Blend until smooth before pouring back into the pot with remaining chunky goodness.

Step 8: Stir In Dairy

Now reduce your heat to low before slowly pouring in whole milk (or half-and-half) along with heavy cream if you’re using it. Stir gently as you mix in those fresh herbs—parsley, chives, thyme—and let everything heat through without boiling.

Step 9: Add Cheese

Remove from heat completely before gradually adding shredded sharp cheddar cheese by handfuls—stirring continuously until each addition melts smoothly into that luscious broth.

Step10: Season Up

Taste test time! Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If you want an extra hint of warmth, add that pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika!

Step11: Serve It Up

Ladle out generous portions into bowls and garnish as desired—whether you’re adding crumbled bacon or extra cheese—the choice is yours! Enjoy every warm sip right away!

Pro Tips for Making Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Creating the perfect hearty potato soup is easier than you think! Here are some pro tips to help you achieve that creamy, flavorful goodness.

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe as they have a buttery flavor and creamy texture, making them perfect for soups. Their waxy consistency helps maintain some structure while cooking.

• Don’t skip the roux: Cooking the flour with onions and garlic creates a roux that thickens your soup beautifully. This step not only improves texture but also enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

• Blend carefully: If using a blender, remember to vent the lid to prevent steam buildup. This ensures a smooth blend without any accidents, keeping your kitchen safe and clean!

• Gradually add cheese: Incorporating cheese off heat prevents it from becoming grainy or clumping together. It allows for a silky-smooth finish that will make every spoonful delightful.

• Taste as you go: Seasoning is key! Tasting throughout the cooking process allows you to adjust flavors according to your preference, ensuring your soup is perfectly seasoned and tailored just for you.

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Serving this comforting potato soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation and enhance the meal experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chives or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the soup.
• Extra cheddar cheese: A handful of freshly shredded sharp cheddar on top melts slightly into the warm soup, adding an extra layer of creaminess and flavor.
• Croutons: Crunchy croutons provide a delightful textural contrast, making each bite interesting and satisfying.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of garlic bread complements the rich flavors of potato soup perfectly, making it an ideal companion.
• Simple green salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup, balancing out the meal beautifully.
• Steamed vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add vibrant color and nutrients to your meal while keeping things healthy and wholesome.
• Cheese quesadillas: Crispy quesadillas filled with melty cheese make for an easy side that pairs wonderfully with your hearty soup, providing additional comfort food vibes.

Enjoying your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup in these ways will surely impress family and friends alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better the next day, but it’s also easy to store and reheat, making it a convenient choice for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing it to prevent condensation.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this comforting recipe:

Can I make this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute whole milk with a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Use a dairy-free cheese alternative for a fully dairy-free version.

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

If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can add more flour while creating the roux or blend more of the soup before mixing it back. Alternatively, adding less liquid when cooking will also give you that desired thickness.

What can I use instead of cheddar cheese in this potato soup recipe?

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack for unique flavors. Just ensure they melt well!

Can I add vegetables to my Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate veggies like carrots or celery when sautéing your onions for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort and satisfaction. Enjoy every delicious spoonful, and don’t hesitate to share your variations! Happy cooking!