Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting dish to warm your soul, this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is just what you need. It’s rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor—perfect for chilly evenings or when you want to impress your family and friends with minimal effort. This soup has been a favorite in my home for years; it never fails to bring smiles around the dinner table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with loved ones, this recipe fits right in.

Made with simple ingredients, it’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Who wouldn’t love a big bowl of cheesy potato bliss? Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious soup bubbling on the stove in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the creamy texture and cheesy flavor—it’s sure to be a hit!
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time; it freezes beautifully for those busy days when cooking feels like too much.
• Versatile toppings: Customize each bowl with your favorite garnishes, from crispy Turkey Bacon to fresh herbs—make it your own!
• Comforting flavors: The combination of garlic, cheddar, and herbs creates an irresistible aroma that fills your home with warmth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is part of the fun! You’ll find they are simple and wholesome, making it easy to whip up this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

• 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 & Herbs

• 2 cups (about 8 oz / 225g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded (avoid pre-shredded for better melting)
• 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 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 flexibility! You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add some veggies: Toss in some diced carrots or celery for added nutrition and crunch.
• Make it spicy: Stir in some diced jalapeños or add a splash of hot sauce for a kick.
• Creamy alternative: Swap out whole milk for coconut milk for a dairy-free option that still delivers creaminess.
• Bulk it up: Incorporate cooked quinoa or lentils for extra protein and heartiness.

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. Rinsing them under cold water helps remove excess starch, which prevents the soup from becoming gummy later on. Set those aside while you get started on the flavorful base!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add either butter or your olive oil/butter combination. Once melted and shimmering, toss in the finely chopped yellow onion. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent—not browned! This step builds flavor right from the start.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Next up is adding minced garlic! Stir it in gently and cook for another minute or two until fragrant. Be careful here; burnt garlic can ruin the soup’s lovely flavor!

Step 4: Create Your Roux

Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over your sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously while cooking this mixture for about 1-2 minutes; this helps eliminate any raw flour taste while thickening the soup beautifully.

Step 5: Whisk in Broth

Gradually whisk in your chicken or vegetable broth—do this slowly while scraping any flavorful bits off the bottom of the pot. This process helps prevent lumps from forming, so keep whisking until everything is smooth before bringing it to a simmer.

Step 6: Add Potatoes

Now it’s time to add those rinsed potato cubes! Stir them into the pot well before bringing everything back to a gentle simmer. Cover with a lid and let those potatoes cook away for about 15-20 minutes until tender.

Step 7: Blend It Up!

To achieve that creamy texture while retaining some potato chunks, carefully ladle half of the soup into a blender. Blend until smooth—remember to vent that lid! Pour it back into the pot with the remaining chunky goodness.

Step 8: Add Dairy & Herbs

Reduce heat to low before slowly pouring in whole milk (or half-and-half) along with heavy cream if you’re using it. Stir constantly as you introduce fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme into your creamy mixture.

Step 9: Melt In The Cheese

Remove your pot from heat completely! Gradually add shredded sharp cheddar cheese—one handful at a time—stirring continuously until each addition is fully melted before adding more.

Step 10: Final Seasoning

Taste your creation now! Season generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper or smoked paprika if desired. Remember that cheese adds saltiness too.

Step 11: Serve & Garnish

Ladle that hot creamy goodness into bowls! Top generously with your favorite garnishes like crumbled Turkey Bacon, extra cheese, sour cream, fresh herbs, or croutons before diving in!

Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe!

Pro Tips for Making Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Making potato soup is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your dish to perfection!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme add vibrant flavor and brightness to the soup. Dried herbs can work in a pinch, but fresh herbs truly make the dish shine.

• Don’t rush the sautéing: Taking the time to sauté the onions until they are soft and translucent builds a flavorful base for your soup. This step enhances the overall taste, creating a deeper flavor profile.

• Blend with care: If you’re blending hot soup, always vent the lid of your blender. This allows steam to escape and prevents any dangerous splatters. A smooth blend adds creaminess without losing that hearty texture.

• Gradually add cheese: When incorporating cheese into the soup off the heat, add it in small handfuls and stir until melted before adding more. This ensures a smooth, creamy texture without clumps.

• Taste as you go: Seasoning is key! Always taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed. Remember that flavors develop as they cook, so final adjustments can make all the difference.

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Serving potato soup can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some fun ideas to present your delicious creation.

Garnishes

• Extra shredded cheddar cheese: A sprinkle of freshly shredded cheddar on top adds a beautiful melty layer.
• Fresh chives or parsley: These not only enhance visual appeal but also provide an extra burst of flavor.
• Croutons: Adding crunchy croutons delivers texture contrast that complements the creamy soup beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf or baguette is perfect for dipping into your hearty soup. The crusty exterior contrasts wonderfully with the creamy interior of the soup.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing balances the richness of the potato soup while adding freshness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies (like carrots or Brussels sprouts) bring color and nutrition to your meal. Their earthy flavors complement the comforting soup.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic pairing that never goes out of style! The crispy bread and gooey cheese create a comforting duo with your hearty potato soup.

Enjoy crafting this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family for cozy gatherings!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your soup:

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 4 days.
• When storing, leave some space at the top of the container for expansion if you plan to freeze it.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving about an inch of space at the top.
• Label the containers with the date; it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in intervals, stirring between each until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe:

Can I modify the Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe for a vegan diet?

Absolutely! For a vegan version, simply substitute unsalted butter with olive oil or vegan butter, use plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk), and opt for a dairy-free cheese alternative.

How long does the Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, this soup can last up to 4 days. If you freeze it, it will stay good for about 3 months!

What kind of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture when cooked. However, you can also use Russet potatoes if that’s what you have on hand.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes! To make this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch as a thickening agent.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort on those chilly days. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with loved ones, your kitchen will be filled with wonderful aromas that invite all to gather around. Enjoy every creamy spoonful and don’t hesitate to make it your own with different toppings or herbs. Happy cooking!