Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, you’ve come to the right place! This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is one of my all-time favorites. It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor—perfect for those busy weeknights when you just want to huddle up with a big bowl of goodness. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings and makes for fantastic leftovers!

There’s something truly magical about the combination of cheddar cheese and garlic in this soup. Each spoonful is like a warm hug, making it an instant hit with everyone. Trust me; once you whip up this delightful recipe, it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this soup is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the creamy texture and cheesy flavor, making it ideal for all ages.
• Great for meal prep: This soup keeps well in the fridge or freezer, allowing you to enjoy hearty meals throughout the week.
• Customizable: You can easily tweak the flavors or toppings to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. 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)
• 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
• Dairy:
• 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

• 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 & Garnish

• 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 parts about this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add veggies: Toss in some chopped carrots or celery for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Mix in some diced jalapeños or hot sauce if you love a little kick!
• Swap the protein: Substitute crumbled turkey bacon with crispy chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Go lighter: Use low-fat milk instead of whole milk and skip the heavy cream for a lighter 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. Rinsing them under cold water helps remove excess starch, which prevents your soup from becoming gummy. After rinsing them well, set aside while you prepare the rest of your ingredients.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add either unsalted butter or a combination of olive oil and butter. Once melted and shimmering, add the finely chopped yellow onion. Sauté for about five to seven minutes until softened and translucent but not browned—this brings out their natural sweetness.

Step 3: Add Garlic & Flour

Next, add minced garlic to your pot and cook for an additional minute or two until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn! Then sprinkle flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously while cooking for about one to two minutes—this helps create a roux that thickens your soup later.

Step 4: Whisk in Broth

Gradually whisk in low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth while scraping any flavorful bits off the bottom of the pot. Continue whisking until smooth without lumps! Once combined, bring your mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Cook Potatoes

Now it’s time to add those rinsed potato cubes! Stir them well into your broth mixture before covering with a lid. Reduce heat to medium-low and let everything cook gently for fifteen to twenty minutes—just until those potato cubes are super tender.

Step 6: Blend Halfway

This step is crucial if you want that signature creamy texture! Carefully ladle about half of your soup into a standard blender. Securely attach the lid but remember to vent so steam can escape by covering with a kitchen towel. Blend until smooth then pour back into your pot with remaining chunky soup!

Step 7: Add Dairy & Herbs

Lower your heat as you slowly pour in whole milk and heavy cream—stirring constantly helps prevent curdling! Then add fresh parsley, chives, and thyme before letting everything heat through gently without boiling.

Step 8: Incorporate Cheese

Remove from heat completely before gradually adding shredded sharp cheddar cheese—do this in small handfuls while stirring continuously until fully melted between each addition! This method keeps your cheese from becoming grainy.

Step 9: Season & Serve

Finally! Taste your delicious creation before seasoning generously with salt and black pepper—add cayenne pepper or smoked paprika if desired too! Ladle hot soup into bowls then garnish however you’d like—with crumbled turkey bacon, extra cheese, sour cream…you name it!

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

Pro Tips for Making Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Making a creamy, delicious potato soup is easier than you might think! Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes have a natural buttery flavor and creamy texture, making them ideal for soups. Their waxy nature holds up well during cooking, preventing mushiness.

• Don’t Skip the Roux: Cooking the flour with the aromatics before adding liquids creates a smooth base and prevents lumps in your soup. It also enhances the flavor depth of the dish.

• Gradually Add Dairy: Slowly incorporating milk and cream off the heat helps achieve that velvety texture without risking curdling. This step is essential for maintaining the creaminess of your soup.

• Fresh Herbs Matter: Using fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme brightens up the flavors in your soup. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but fresh ones provide a vibrancy that elevates the dish.

• Taste as You Go: Seasoning your soup gradually allows you to adjust flavors to your preference. Since cheese adds saltiness, it’s crucial to taste before adding more salt.

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! Here are some delightful ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Crumbled Turkey Bacon: A sprinkle of crispy turkey bacon adds a savory crunch that pairs wonderfully with creamy soup.
• Extra Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A handful of freshly shredded cheddar on top creates an inviting melty layer that enhances flavor and presentation.
• Fresh Chives or Parsley: A sprinkle of these herbs not only adds color but also brings an aromatic freshness that complements the rich soup.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: This warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your soup and soaking up all that cheesy goodness.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly seasoned steamed broccoli or green beans offer a healthy side option that balances out the meal.
• Croutons: These crunchy bites are fantastic for adding texture and can be made from leftover bread tossed with olive oil and seasonings before baking until golden.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to enjoy a delightful bowl of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. It’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week. You can prepare it in advance and store it for quick lunches or cozy dinners.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover soup in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before covering and refrigerating.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool to room temperature before freezing.
• Transfer the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe:

Can I make this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter with olive oil, use plant-based milk and cream alternatives, and opt for a vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also skip the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative!

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

If you prefer a thicker texture, you can blend more of the soup or add additional flour when sautéing the onions and garlic. Another option is to incorporate instant potato flakes while simmering until you reach your desired thickness.

Can I substitute other types of cheese in this soup recipe?

Yes! While sharp cheddar adds great flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack. Just ensure they melt well for that creamy consistency!

How long does this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup keep in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup can last in your refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just reheat thoroughly before serving!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe as I am! It’s not just satisfying; it brings warmth and comfort on chilly days. Enjoy making this delightful dish, and don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite toppings. Happy cooking, and may every spoonful bring you joy!