Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the heart and soul, you’ve come to the right place! This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is one of my all-time favorites. It’s creamy, rich, and bursting with flavor from sharp cheddar cheese and fresh herbs. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this soup brings everyone together around the table. Each spoonful feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, making it a go-to comfort food in our home.

The best part? It’s simple to prepare! With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a batch that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Trust me, once you try this soup, it will become part of your regular meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have delicious soup ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love it! The cheesy flavor and creamy texture make it a hit with everyone.
• Make-Ahead Delight: Prepare it in advance and reheat for quick meals during busy weeks.
• Versatile Options: Customize it with your favorite toppings or add-ins for a unique twist every time!
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of cheddar cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs creates an irresistible taste sensation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! This recipe calls for wholesome components that blend beautifully together to create that rich, creamy goodness we all crave. 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
• 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)
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground (or to taste)
• Cayenne/Soy Sauce Spice: 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 Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add some veggies: Toss in some diced carrots or celery along with the onions for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to give your soup a kick.
• Swap the protein: Want more substance? Add cooked shredded chicken or turkey into your pot for heartiness.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute coconut milk or almond milk instead of dairy options if you’re looking for a lighter version!

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 helps remove excess starch—this little trick prevents your soup from becoming gummy later on!

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the butter (or olive oil/butter combo). Once melted and shimmering, toss in the finely chopped yellow onion. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent but not browned; this builds a wonderful base flavor.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Next up is adding that aromatic garlic! Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute or two until fragrant. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn—burnt garlic can ruin your lovely soup!

Step 4: Create the Roux

Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over your sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously while cooking this roux for about one to two minutes; this cooks out any raw flour taste and gives your soup some much-needed thickness.

Step 5: Whisk in Broth

Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth bit by bit while scraping down those flavorful bits stuck at the bottom of the pot. This prevents lumps from forming—no one likes lumpy soup! Once smooth, bring it all to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Cook Your Potatoes

Now it’s time to add those rinsed potato cubes! Stir well before bringing everything back to a gentle simmer. Cover it up and let it cook on medium-low heat for about 15-20 minutes until those potatoes are tender enough to pierce easily with a fork.

Step 7: Blend It Up

For that signature creamy texture while keeping some hearty potato chunks intact, carefully ladle half of your soup into a blender. Securely lid it up but vent with a kitchen towel on top so steam can escape safely. Blend until smooth and pour back into your pot.

Step 8: Stir in Dairy

Turn down the heat to low as you slowly pour in whole milk (or half-and-half) along with heavy cream if you’re using it. Stir constantly while adding fresh parsley, chives, and thyme—it’s going to smell divine! Allow everything to heat through gently without boiling.

Step 9: Add Cheese

Remove from heat completely before gradually adding shredded sharp cheddar cheese—a handful at a time—while stirring continuously until fully melted each time before adding more. This method keeps your cheese from getting grainy!

Step 10: Season & Serve

Give everything one last taste test before seasoning generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper—remember that cheese adds saltiness too! Ladle hot soup into bowls and garnish with tasty toppings like crumbled Turkey Turkey Bacon or extra cheese. Enjoy immediately—you deserve every delightful spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Making a delicious potato soup is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you can take your soup to the next level!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and quality cheese, as they greatly enhance the flavor and richness of the soup. Fresh ingredients bring vibrant taste that dried or processed alternatives simply can’t match.

• Don’t Rush the Sauté: Take your time sautéing the onions and garlic until they’re softened and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base that makes all the difference in your final dish.

• Blend Carefully: When blending part of your soup, ensure you vent the blender lid to prevent any dangerous steam buildup. Safety first—this way, you’ll get a velvety texture without any surprises!

• Adjust Consistency to Your Liking: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend more of the mixture; if you enjoy chunkier textures, blend less. Tailor it to your preference for an extra personal touch.

• Taste as You Go: Season gradually throughout the cooking process, especially after adding cheese. This allows you to control flavors better and achieve that perfect balance without over-salting.

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Presenting this hearty potato soup is just as important as making it! Here are some fun ideas for serving that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens each bowl.
• Extra Cheese: A handful of shredded sharp cheddar on top creates a melty layer that’s irresistible when served hot.
• Croutons: Adding crispy croutons provides a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup while providing a refreshing crunch.
• Garlic Bread: Warm, toasted garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your creamy potato soup, adding an extra layer of savory goodness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts add color and nutrients to your meal while balancing out the creaminess.
• Cheesy Biscuits: Flaky biscuits loaded with cheese make for an indulgent side that pairs perfectly with this hearty dish.

Enjoy serving this comforting Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe alongside these garnishes and sides—your guests (and taste buds) will thank you!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge and even freezes beautifully, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer it into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or use the microwave on a low setting.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to avoid scorching.
• If the soup thickens during storage, add a splash of broth or milk while reheating to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! You can substitute olive oil for butter, use plant-based milk and cream alternatives, and skip the cheese or opt for a vegan cheese.

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

The soup will last in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just reheat gently before serving!

Can I use other types of potatoes in this recipe?

Yes! While Yukon Gold is preferred for its creaminess, you can also use Russet or red potatoes. Keep in mind that texture may vary slightly.

What can I serve with this potato soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, salads, or sandwiches. It’s a hearty meal on its own but complements light sides beautifully!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe! It’s not just a dish; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort to any table. Whether you’re enjoying it alone or sharing with loved ones, I’m sure it will become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking!