Warm up with this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, a creamy and comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days. If you’re looking for a cozy meal that brings the whole family together, this Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is just what you need. It’s rich with cheesy goodness and fragrant herbs, making it a favorite in my home. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends, this soup never disappoints.

There’s something magical about how simple ingredients can create such warmth and flavor. Plus, it comes together quickly, so you can enjoy hearty bowls of comfort without spending all day in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make: With just a few steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have a delicious soup on the table in no time.
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and cheesy flavor—it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for easy meals throughout the week.
Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your taste—add your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that will come together beautifully in this soup. You might already have many of these items in your pantry!

4 large potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and diced
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is its flexibility! Here are some fun ways to make it your own:

Add extra veggies: Toss in some chopped carrots or celery for added nutrition and texture.
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give your soup a little kick.
Use different cheeses: Swap out sharp cheddar for gouda or mozzarella for a unique flavor profile.
Herb swap: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or chives instead of dried thyme for added freshness.

How to Make Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add in the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it’s translucent. This step is crucial because sautéing the onions brings out their natural sweetness. Then, stir in the minced garlic cloves and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Next, add the diced potatoes along with the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender. This cooking method allows all those lovely flavors to meld together while softening our potatoes beautifully.

Step 3: Blend for Creaminess

For that creamy texture we crave, partially mash the potatoes using a potato masher or use an immersion blender if you prefer an ultra-smooth consistency. This blending creates that comforting creaminess throughout each bowl.

Step 4: Add Cream & Cheese

Now it’s time to stir in one cup of heavy cream along with one cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well until everything is melted and creamy—this is where our soup gets its luscious richness! Don’t forget to season with dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste; these little touches make all the difference.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Finally, ladle your beautiful soup into bowls and feel free to garnish with fresh herbs or extra cheese if desired. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this heartwarming dish that’s sure to bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Making Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup can be a delightful experience, and these tips will ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time!

Choose the right potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for a creamy texture. They break down easily and create a silky smooth soup.
Sauté the garlic properly: Sautéing the minced garlic until fragrant (but not burnt) enhances its flavor, giving your soup that rich, garlicky goodness without any bitterness.
Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, reserve some potato chunks and mash them in before adding cream. This adds both heartiness and a lovely rustic feel to your dish.
Experiment with herbs: While thyme is fantastic, consider adding fresh parsley or chives at the end for a burst of color and freshness. It brightens the flavor and makes your dish more visually appealing.
Make it ahead of time: This soup can be made in advance and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving.

How to Serve Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Presenting your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup beautifully will elevate your meal experience, making it even more enjoyable for you and your guests.

Garnishes

Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped chives or parsley adds color and a fresh taste that complements the richness of the soup.
Extra cheese: A handful of shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top creates an inviting look while enhancing that cheesy flavor we all love.

Side Dishes

Crusty bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread or a baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. The crunchy texture pairs beautifully with the smoothness of the soup.
Green salad: A light mixed green salad with a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. It balances out your meal perfectly!
Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts add depth to your meal and bring in additional nutrients while complementing the flavors of your soup.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy a cozy bowl of Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup that’s sure to warm both body and soul!

Make Ahead and Storage

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

Storing Leftovers

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For best taste, consume leftovers within this timeframe.

Freezing

Cool the soup completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.
Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

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

Can I use other types of cheese in Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar adds wonderful flavor, you can also try using Monterey Jack, Gouda, or a blend of your favorites for a different twist.

How can I make Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup vegan?

To make this soup vegan, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and use vegetable broth. You can also replace cheese with nutritional yeast for added flavor.

Can I add vegetables to Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables like carrots, celery, or broccoli. Just adjust cooking times as needed for perfect tenderness.

What herbs pair well with Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?

Aside from thyme, consider adding rosemary, parsley, or chives for extra flavor. Fresh herbs will give your soup a delightful aroma and taste!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this warm and hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup as much as I do! It’s special because it brings comfort on chilly days and is so easy to whip up. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients—it’s all about making it your own. Happy cooking, and may each bowl bring you warmth and joy!