Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, then this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is just what you need. There’s something so comforting about a bowl of creamy potato soup, especially on chilly evenings or during family gatherings. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s not only delicious but also simple to whip up. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet quick to prepare.

What makes this soup truly special are the layers of flavor from fresh herbs and sharp cheddar cheese, making every spoonful a delight. Plus, it’s easy to customize depending on what you have on hand. So whether you’re serving it as a side at dinner or enjoying it on its own with some crusty bread, you’ll find it’s a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this soup comes together quickly, allowing you to focus on what really matters—enjoying time with loved ones.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and cheesy goodness, making it an ideal choice for family meals.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time! This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, so you can enjoy it later without any hassle.
• Deliciously comforting: The combination of garlic, herbs, and cheddar cheese creates a rich flavor profile that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what to gather:

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

For Aromatics

• Onion: 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1.5 cups)
• Garlic: 5-6 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons)

For Thickening

• Flour: 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

For 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)
• Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (4 fl oz / 120 ml) heavy cream (optional)

For Flavor

• 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)

For Seasoning

• Salt: 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground (or to taste)
• Cayenne pepper or smoked paprika: Pinch (optional)

Optional Garnish

• Cooked crumbled bacon
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• More fresh chives or parsley
• Croutons

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to adjust it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add vegetables: Toss in some carrots or celery for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a kick.
• Use different cheeses: Swap in gouda or Monterey jack if you’re looking for a unique twist.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute the milk and cream with your favorite plant-based alternatives like almond milk or coconut cream.

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 the cubed potatoes under cold water helps remove excess starch. This step is crucial because it prevents the soup from becoming gummy and ensures those lovely chunks of potato stay intact!

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the butter (or olive oil/butter combination). Once melted and shimmering, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent but not browned. This process enhances the sweetness of the onions and sets the stage for rich flavors.

Step 3: Create Your Roux

Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute or two until fragrant—just be careful not to burn it! Then sprinkle in the flour over your sautéed aromatics. Stir continuously for about two minutes; this helps cook out that raw flour taste while creating a roux that thickens the soup beautifully.

Step 4: Add Broth

Gradually whisk in your chicken or vegetable broth bit by bit while scraping up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This step is key for flavor! Whisk until smooth; then bring everything to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Cook Potatoes

Now add in your rinsed potato cubes! Stir well before bringing it back to simmer gently. Cover the pot and let it cook away for about 15-20 minutes until those potatoes are tender enough to pierce easily with a fork.

Step 6: Blend It Up

Here comes the fun part! Carefully ladle about half of your soup into a blender—this gives you that signature creamy texture while keeping some chunks intact. Blend until smooth and pour back into your pot with remaining chunky soup.

Step 7: Mix in Dairy

Reduce heat to low before slowly pouring in whole milk (or half-and-half) along with heavy cream if using—don’t forget to stir constantly here! Add in those fresh herbs too. Let everything heat through gently—just five minutes will do!

Step 8: Finish with Cheese

Remove from heat completely before gradually adding sharp cheddar cheese one handful at a time while stirring continuously until fully melted each time. Avoiding heat here keeps that cheese from turning grainy!

Step 9: Season & Serve

Finally, taste your masterpiece! Season generously with salt, pepper, and if desired cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for an extra kick. Ladle hot soup into bowls and garnish with crumbled bacon if desired along with any toppings you love—extra cheese always wins hearts!

Enjoy every warm spoonful of this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe; it’s sure to become one of your favorites too!

Pro Tips for Making Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Making a creamy and delicious potato soup can be a breeze with just a few extra tips to ensure perfection!

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal because they are creamy and hold their shape well, adding texture to your soup without becoming mushy.
• Don’t rush the sautéing: Taking the time to properly sauté your onions and garlic enhances their flavors, creating a rich foundation for your soup. Remember, patience pays off in flavor!
• Add cheese off the heat: By incorporating shredded cheese after removing the pot from heat, you prevent it from becoming grainy or clumping together, ensuring that your soup remains smooth and creamy.
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Since cheese contributes additional saltiness, taste your soup before adding more salt. This way, you’ll avoid overpowering the dish and can customize it to your liking.
• Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor: Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme brighten up the rich flavors of the soup. They add a touch of freshness that balances out the creaminess perfectly.

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Serving this potato soup is as enjoyable as making it! With its warm, inviting aroma and rich flavors, you’ll want to present it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh chives: A sprinkle of finely chopped chives adds a pop of color and mild onion flavor.
• Extra cheddar cheese: A handful of freshly shredded cheddar on top creates a gooey goodness that’s hard to resist.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop adds creaminess and tang, perfectly complementing the richness of the soup.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread or baguette is perfect for dipping into your hearty soup, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the potato soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies enhance your meal with added nutrients and textures while offering a deliciously caramelized flavor.
• Grilled cheese sandwiches: Classic grilled cheese pairs wonderfully with this soup and makes for a comforting, nostalgic duo that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and comfort.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Label with the date and contents, then freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze without adding any cream or cheese; instead, stir them in when reheating.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If frozen without cream and cheese, add these ingredients during reheating for that creamy finish.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious soup recipe:

Can I use other types of potatoes for this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe?

Yes, while Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture, you can substitute with Russet or red potatoes. Just note that different potatoes may alter the final texture slightly.

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

To add some heat, you can include more cayenne pepper or smoked paprika while cooking. Alternatively, serve with a dash of hot sauce when you’re ready to enjoy!

Can I substitute non-dairy milk in the Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! You can use almond milk, oat milk, or any other non-dairy milk of your choice. Just ensure it’s unsweetened for the best flavor balance.

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

This soup will last for about 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe as much as I do! It’s not just a comforting dish; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need some extra love on your plate. Enjoy every spoonful and feel free to share your thoughts or variations you try – I would love to hear from you!