Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your heart and soul, my Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is just what you need. This soup has been a cherished favorite in my home for years. It’s creamy, comforting, and made with wholesome ingredients that bring everyone together. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this soup never fails to impress.

There’s something magical about the combination of cheddar, garlic, and herbs that makes this dish so special. As it simmers on the stove, your kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone to the table. Plus, it’s straightforward enough for even novice cooks to whip up!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal fuss, this soup comes together quickly.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike love the creamy texture and cheesy flavor.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers all week.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of garlic and cheddar creates a deliciously rich taste that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome items that come together beautifully to create our hearty soup.

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
• 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)
• 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 how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative and customize it to suit your taste.

• Add some greens: Toss in fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to give it some kick.
• Swap out the cheese: Try different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for unique flavors.
• Throw in some protein: Add cooked chicken or turkey for a heartier meal.

How to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by peeling your Yukon Gold potatoes and chopping them into uniform cubes. Rinse them under cold water to wash away excess starch – this helps keep your soup from becoming gummy later on.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, add your butter or olive oil/butter combination. Once melted and shimmering, toss in the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened but not browned; this step brings out their natural sweetness.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute or two until fragrant. Keep stirring constantly so you don’t burn the garlic—it can turn bitter if overcooked!

Step 4: Create Your Roux

Sprinkle flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously as you cook for an additional minute or two. This roux will help thicken your soup later on.

Step 5: Incorporate Broth

Gradually whisk in your broth while scraping any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot. Keep whisking until smooth – we want no lumps here! Bring everything to a gentle simmer afterward.

Step 6: Add Potatoes

Now it’s time to add those potato cubes! Stir them well into the pot and bring it back to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 15-20 minutes until they’re tender enough to pierce with a fork.

Step 7: Blend Halfway

To achieve that creamy texture while keeping some hearty chunks intact, ladle half of your soup into a blender carefully. Blend until smooth—just remember to vent the lid so steam can escape!

Step 8: Return Blended Soup

Pour the blended soup back into the pot with the remaining chunky mixture. This step gives us that perfect balance between creamy and chunky textures.

Step 9: Stir in Dairy

Lower your heat before slowly pouring in whole milk (or half-and-half) along with heavy cream if using. Stir gently as you mix in fresh herbs like parsley and chives – let those flavors meld together without boiling.

Step 10: Melt Cheese In

Remove from heat completely before gradually adding shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until each handful melts completely; this prevents graininess!

Step 11: Season It Up

Taste your wonderful creation! Season generously with salt, black pepper, and optional spices as desired—remember that cheese adds its own saltiness too!

Step12: Serve & Enjoy

Ladle steaming bowls of soup topped with garnishes like turkey bacon bits, extra cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt—whatever makes you happy! Serve immediately while it’s hot!

Pro Tips for Making Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Whether you’re whipping this up for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these tips will help you achieve the ultimate creamy comfort food experience!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality cheese make all the difference. They enhance the flavors of your soup, ensuring that each spoonful is bursting with taste.

• Don’t Skip the Roux: Taking the time to create a roux with flour, onions, and garlic provides a solid base that thickens your soup beautifully, avoiding a watery consistency.

• Blend in Batches Safely: If using a blender, remember to blend in batches and vent the lid. This prevents dangerous steam buildup and allows you to achieve that perfect creamy texture without mess.

• Add Cheese Off Heat: By adding the cheddar cheese when the pot is off the heat, you’ll ensure it melts smoothly and doesn’t become grainy. This step is crucial for achieving that luscious finish!

• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Since cheese adds saltiness, start with less salt and pepper. Tasting as you go allows you to fine-tune the flavor to your liking without over-seasoning.

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Serving this delicious soup can be just as enjoyable as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can elevate your presentation and impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of extra chopped parsley or chives not only adds color but also enhances freshness.
• Crumbled Turkey Bacon: This adds a delightful crunch and savory flavor contrast that makes every bite more satisfying.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop on top brings creaminess and tang that complements the rich soup perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread or baguette is perfect for dipping into this hearty soup. The texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens dressed in vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup while adding freshness.
• Garlic Breadsticks: These are great for those who enjoy an extra garlic kick! They’re perfect for any leftover soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional flavors and nutrients to your meal, complementing the potatoes nicely.

Enjoy your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe with these serving suggestions, and let every bowl warm hearts around your table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy warm, comforting bowls throughout the week. With just a few simple storage tips, you can savor this delicious soup 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 possible, keep toppings separate until ready to serve to maintain their freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the soup cool down fully, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For stovetop reheating, gently warm over low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• If using a microwave, transfer to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.
• Add a splash of milk or cream if needed to restore creaminess.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

Can I make the Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe without dairy?

Yes! You can substitute whole milk and heavy cream with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or coconut cream. Just ensure that they are unsweetened for the best flavor.

What are good toppings for the Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe?

Great options include crumbled Turkey Bacon, extra shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, fresh herbs like chives or parsley, and crunchy croutons. Feel free to mix and match!

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

If you prefer a thicker consistency, consider blending more of the soup or adding a little extra flour during cooking. Alternatively, reduce the amount of broth used.

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

Absolutely! Carrots or celery can add flavor and nutrition. Just chop them finely and sauté them with the onions at the beginning.

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll find joy in making this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup! It’s not just about nourishing your body; it’s also about warming your heart on chilly days. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a cozy night in by yourself, this soup is sure to delight. Happy cooking!