Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting bowl of warmth that feels like a hug from the inside, 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—a true crowd-pleaser for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. The blend of sharp cheddar and fragrant herbs makes this soup incredibly satisfying, and I promise it will warm your heart and soul.

What’s more, this recipe is so straightforward that even novice cooks can whip it up in no time! With simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, it’s perfect for those days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the creamy texture and cheesy goodness!
• Versatile: You can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Comforting Flavors: The combination of cheddar cheese and garlic creates a rich flavor that feels like home.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: It’s ideal for prepping in advance; just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe uses simple, wholesome items that pack a punch of flavor. 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)

For Flavoring

• 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)
• Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground (or to taste)
• Cayenne or Smoked Paprika: Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (optional, for 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 switch up ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add More Veggies: Throw in some carrots or celery for added nutrition and color.
• Spice It Up: If you love heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
• Creamy Vegan Version: Substitute with plant-based milk and vegan cheese for a dairy-free alternative.
• Swap the Cheese: Try different types of cheese like gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist!

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 cubes. Rinsing them under cold water helps remove excess starch which can make your soup gummy. Setting them aside ensures they are ready when it’s time to add them to the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and add your choice of fat—either unsalted butter or a mix of olive oil and butter. Once melted and shimmering, toss in the finely chopped onion. Sauté until softened and translucent but not browned—this step brings out their natural sweetness.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Now it’s time to infuse some flavor! Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute or two until fragrant. Stir constantly to avoid burning; nobody wants bitter garlic in their soup!

Step 4: Create a Roux

Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over your sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously while cooking for about two minutes. This creates a roux that helps thicken your soup later on.

Step 5: Whisk in Broth

Gradually whisk in low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth while scraping the bottom of the pot to release flavorful bits stuck there. Whisking prevents lumps from forming—no one likes chunky soup! Once smooth, bring it all to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Cook Potatoes

Add those rinsed potato cubes into the pot and stir well. Bring everything back to a gentle simmer then cover it up! Let it cook for about fifteen to twenty minutes until those potatoes are tender enough to pierce with a fork.

Step 7: Blend It Up!

To achieve that lovely creamy texture while keeping some heartiness, ladle about half of your soup into a blender—just be cautious as hot liquids can be tricky! Blend until smooth then pour it back into your pot with the remaining chunky mixture.

Step 8: Add Dairy & Herbs

Reduce heat to low before slowly pouring in whole milk and heavy cream if you’re using it—this is where the magic happens! Stir constantly as you add fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme. Allow it all to gently heat through without boiling; we want creaminess here!

Step 9: Melt in Cheese

Remove from heat completely before gradually adding shredded sharp cheddar cheese—stirring continuously until fully melted between each addition prevents graininess.

Step 10: Final Seasoning & Serve

Taste your delicious creation! Season generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, plus cayenne if desired. Ladle into bowls and garnish with toppings like crumbled turkey bacon or extra cheese before diving in!

Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe—it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table too!

Pro Tips for Making Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Making the perfect bowl of potato soup can be simple and rewarding. With a few expert tips, you can elevate your dish to new heights!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and freshly shredded cheese. Fresh ingredients enhance the flavors and texture of the soup, making it more vibrant and satisfying.

• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, add extra broth or milk until you reach your desired thickness. This flexibility allows you to customize your soup based on personal preference.

• Don’t Rush the Simmering: Allow the potatoes to simmer until they’re very tender. This step is crucial for creating that creamy texture and ensures that every bite is comforting and delicious.

• Experiment with Cheese: While sharp cheddar adds a lovely flavor, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Gouda for added depth. Different cheeses can bring unique tastes and richness to your soup.

• Store Leftovers Wisely: If you have leftover soup, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for 3-4 days and actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld!

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Serving your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is all about presentation and pairing with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more delightful!

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: A sprinkle of finely chopped green onions adds a fresh crunch and a pop of color, enhancing both flavor and visual appeal.

• Crumbled Turkey Bacon: For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, crumbled turkey bacon offers a savory topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A loaf of crusty sourdough or French bread is perfect for dipping into this hearty soup. The chewy texture complements the creamy consistency beautifully.

• Simple Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the soup.

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts add color and nutrition while harmonizing with the hearty nature of the potato soup.

• Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks: These indulgent breadsticks are cheesy, buttery, and garlicky—perfect for sopping up every last drop of deliciousness from your bowl!

Enjoy crafting this delicious dish that comforts not just your belly but also your heart!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later use, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool entirely.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in intervals, stirring often.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

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

Absolutely! You can substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives like almond milk or coconut cream. Just ensure they are unsweetened for the best results.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe?

You can enhance the flavor by adding more herbs like rosemary or basil, or even some sautéed mushrooms or carrots. A splash of lemon juice just before serving adds a wonderful brightness too!

What should I do if my soup turns out too thick?

If your soup is thicker than you’d like, simply stir in additional broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Heat gently while stirring.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or even leafy greens. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is tender.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup becomes a comforting staple in your kitchen! With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s not just delicious but also a wonderful way to enjoy wholesome ingredients. Enjoy making it as much as you’ll love eating it! Happy cooking!