Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting bowl of goodness that warms both body 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 a delicious blend of creamy potatoes and rich cheddar cheese, infused with fragrant herbs and garlic. Perfect for chilly evenings or casual family gatherings, this soup brings everyone together around the table, filling the air with its irresistible aroma.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You won’t need any fancy ingredients here—just wholesome, everyday staples that you probably already have in your kitchen. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend get-together, this soup is sure to please every palate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this cozy dish in no time.
• Family-friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love the creamy texture and cheesy flavor!
• Versatile: This soup is great as a starter or main course and works well with various toppings.
• Make-ahead convenience: It stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Rich in flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar and fresh herbs gives it an unforgettable taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe uses simple and wholesome items that come together to create a heartwarming dish. 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)

Thickening Agent

• Flour: 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

Liquid Base

• 4 cups (32 fl oz / 950 ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups (16 fl oz / 475 ml) whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
• 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 (or to taste)
• Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground (or to taste)
• Optional heat: Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika

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 recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add some greens: Toss in chopped spinach or kale for added nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
• Swap the protein: Use crumbled turkey sausage instead of Turkey Bacon for a heartier option.
• Make it spicy: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Herb twist: Experiment with different herbs like dill or rosemary for unique flavor profiles.

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 those cubes under cold water helps remove excess starch, which keeps your soup from becoming gummy. Set them aside while you get started on the base.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Place your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and add the butter (or your olive oil/butter mix). Once it’s melted and shimmering, toss in the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they’re softened and translucent—this brings out their natural sweetness! Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute or two until fragrant.

Step 3: Make Your Roux

Sprinkle flour over those golden onions and garlic, stirring continuously for about a minute or two. Cooking this roux is crucial; it eliminates any raw flour taste and thickens your soup beautifully.

Step 4: Add Broth Gradually

Now it’s time to whisk in your broth slowly! Pour it in little by little while scraping any flavorful bits off the bottom of the pot. This step ensures a smooth mixture without lumps—it’s all about that silky texture!

Step 5: Cook Your Potatoes

Add those rinsed potato cubes into the pot, stir well, and bring everything back to a gentle simmer. Cover it up and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes until those potatoes are tender enough to pierce easily with a fork. Don’t forget to stir occasionally!

Step 6: Blend It Up!

Here comes the fun part! Carefully ladle about half of your soup into a blender—make sure not to overfill—and blend until smooth. This creates a lovely creamy texture while keeping some chunks intact for heartiness. Pour that back into your pot!

Step 7: Stir in Dairy & Herbs

Reduce heat to low before slowly pouring in milk (or half-and-half) along with heavy cream if you’re using it. Stir continuously as you add minced parsley, chives, thyme, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne or paprika—this is where all those flavors combine!

Step 8: Finish with Cheese

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

Step 9: Season & Serve

Give your soup a taste test! Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed; remember that cheese adds saltiness too! Ladle that hot creamy goodness into bowls, garnishing generously with toppings like crumbled Turkey Turkey Bacon or extra cheese if desired.

Enjoy immediately—you’ve earned every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Making a delicious potato soup is all about the details, and I’m here to help you get it just right!

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect for this soup because they have a creamy texture that holds up well during cooking. Their natural sweetness also enhances the flavor of the soup.

• Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Take your time when sautéing the onions and garlic. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup and brings out their natural sweetness, making every spoonful delightful.

• Whisk Gradually: When adding the broth, whisk it in gradually to prevent lumps from forming. This ensures a silky smooth texture that’s essential for a creamy soup.

• Add Cheese Off Heat: For the best melting results, add your shredded cheddar cheese to the pot after removing it from heat. This prevents graininess and ensures that your soup remains velvety.

• Taste as You Go: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasoning gradually, especially since the cheese adds saltiness. This will help you achieve a perfectly balanced flavor.

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Presenting your hearty potato soup can be as fun as making it! With some thoughtful garnishes and side dishes, you can turn this cozy meal into a delightful dining experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped chives or parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each bowl.
• Shredded Cheese: A handful of extra sharp cheddar on top not only looks inviting but also enhances the cheesy goodness in every spoonful.
• Creamy Topping: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a tangy creaminess that beautifully complements the rich flavors of the soup.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough loaf is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last bit of your delicious soup.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots or Brussels sprouts add depth and texture while complementing the flavors in your potato soup.
• Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks: These are not only fun to make but offer an indulgent treat that pairs perfectly with your hearty dish!

Enjoy serving this comforting bowl of goodness; it’s sure to warm hearts and homes!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is perfect for meal prep! It’s not only delicious but also keeps well, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays or cozy gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate the soup for up to 3-4 days.
• Label your container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, move the soup to the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• If reheating from frozen, thaw first in the refrigerator and then heat on the stovetop or microwave.
• Add a splash of milk or cream if the soup is too thick after reheating.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! Substitute the butter with olive oil and use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives. Vegetable broth will work perfectly as well.

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

Consider adding additional herbs like rosemary or dill, or a splash of lemon juice for brightness. You can also incorporate sautéed vegetables like carrots or celery for more depth!

What can I serve with this potato soup?

This hearty potato soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even grilled cheese sandwiches. It makes for a filling and comforting meal!

Can I use another type of cheese in this recipe?

Yes! While sharp cheddar gives a robust flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether you whip it up for a chilly evening or meal prep for your busy week ahead, this recipe is sure to bring comfort and joy. Happy cooking!