Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb potato soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chasing away the chill. I discovered this amazing savory cheddar garlic herb recipe on a blustery autumn evening, and the aroma that filled my kitchen was pure magic – a rich blend of sharp cheddar, pungent garlic, and fragrant herbs. This soup is so incredibly creamy and satisfying, it feels like a warm hug in a bowl. If you’ve ever wondered how to make hearty cheddar garlic herb bread, this soup is its perfect soulmate. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
This soup is an absolute winner for so many reasons:
- Incredible Taste: Experience a truly rich cheddar garlic herb flavor that’s both comforting and deeply satisfying.
- Quick Prep: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious meal on a busy weeknight.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients, it’s a great way to enjoy a gourmet taste without breaking the bank.
- Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will adore the creamy texture and the irresistible cheesy, garlicky goodness.
- Healthy-ish Indulgence: Packed with potatoes and herbs, it feels like a treat but offers some good-for-you benefits too.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a starter, a light lunch, or a hearty main course.
- Unforgettable Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar and aromatic garlic creates a rich cheddar garlic herb flavor you’ll crave.
- Simple to Make: It’s an easy hearty cheddar garlic herb recipe that anyone can master.
Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients for a truly comforting bowl. You’ll find that the base of this soup is much like what you’d use for a fantastic cheesy garlic herb loaf, but transformed into a creamy, dreamy soup. The potatoes are the star, providing a wonderfully starchy base that thickens the soup beautifully. Freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese is key for that signature melt and flavor, while the aromatics – onion and garlic – build the savory foundation. Don’t skip the herbs; they add that essential fragrant note.
- 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced – these create a lovely creamy texture
- 1 small onion, finely chopped – about ½ cup, for a sweet aromatic base
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that garlicky punch
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth – the liquid base of our soup
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese – for ultimate cheesy goodness
- 1 cup milk – adds creaminess without being too heavy
- ½ cup heavy cream – for that luxurious, velvety finish
- 3 tablespoons butter – to sauté the aromatics and start our roux
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – to thicken the soup
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – adds an earthy, savory note
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary – provides a piney, fragrant aroma
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley – for a touch of fresh flavor and color
- Salt and black pepper, to taste – to enhance all the flavors
- Optional toppings: chopped chives, extra cheddar, cooked turkey bacon bits – for extra flair!
How to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a truly decadent soup. It’s a process that’s both easy and rewarding, filling your kitchen with an incredible aroma as it cooks. Think of it as creating your own comforting, garlicky cheddar herb bake in a pot. Get ready for a dish that feels incredibly special but is surprisingly straightforward to prepare.
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Begin by melting 3 tablespoons butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the 1 small onion, finely chopped, and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the 3 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for just 30 seconds more until wonderfully fragrant. This step builds the essential flavor base.
Step 2: Building the Base
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour over the softened onions and garlic. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and create a simple roux. Gradually whisk in the 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, making sure to incorporate it smoothly. This creates the creamy foundation for our soup.
Step 3: Simmering the Potatoes
Now, add the 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced, along with the 1 teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon dried rosemary, and ½ teaspoon dried parsley. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. This allows all those savory flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Achieving Creamy Texture
For that signature creamy texture, partially blend the soup. Use an immersion blender directly in the pot, or carefully transfer about half of the soup to a regular blender. Blend until mostly smooth, but be sure to leave some chunks of potato for delightful texture. If using a blender, return the pureed portion to the pot.
Step 5: Melting the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low – you don’t want to boil this mixture. Stir in the 1 cup milk, ½ cup heavy cream, and 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Continue to stir gently until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is velvety smooth. Season generously with salt and black pepper, to taste to enhance all those wonderful flavors.
Step 6: Serving and Garnishing
Ladle the hot, creamy soup into bowls. Garnish with your favorite toppings like chopped chives, extra cheddar, or cooked turkey bacon bits for added flavor and texture. This soup is absolutely divine served alongside a slice of hearty herb and cheese bread for dipping!
Pro Tips for the Best Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Want to elevate this soup from good to absolutely unforgettable? I’ve picked up a few tricks that make all the difference:
- Always use freshly shredded cheddar cheese. Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can make your soup a little grainy, and the flavor just isn’t as vibrant.
- Don’t overcook the potatoes before blending. They should be tender, but if they’re falling apart, your soup might end up too starchy.
- Taste and adjust seasonings at the very end. The saltiness of the cheese and broth can vary, so a final check ensures perfect flavor balance.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider toasting your herbs lightly in the butter before adding the onions.
What’s the secret to perfect Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?
The magic lies in the balance of creamy texture and robust flavor. Using a combination of milk and heavy cream creates that luxurious velvety feel, while freshly shredded sharp cheddar and plenty of garlic provide the signature taste. Think of it as a warm, liquid hug, perfect alongside a slice of cheddar and garlic infused bread.
Can I make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the soup up to the point of adding the cheese and cream, then let it cool completely before refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the soup base, then stir in the dairy and cheese until melted and smooth. It’s a great way to save time.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?
The most common pitfall is a grainy texture, which usually happens when using pre-shredded cheese. Another mistake is boiling the soup after adding the cheese and dairy, which can cause them to separate. Always simmer gently on low heat to keep it perfectly smooth and creamy.
Best Ways to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
This wonderfully creamy soup is so versatile, it’s perfect for almost any occasion. For a truly satisfying meal, serve it as a hearty main course with a side of crusty bread for dipping – maybe even some of that amazing cheesy garlic herb loaf! It also makes a fantastic appetizer or a comforting lunch. If you want to boost the flavor even further, a sprinkle of savory cheddar herb seasoning right before serving adds an extra punch. For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh green salad or some grilled cheese sandwiches.
Nutrition Facts for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
This hearty soup is a satisfying meal, packed with flavor and comforting ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
This delicious soup is fantastic for meal prep! Once it has cooled down completely, transfer the soup into airtight containers. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for lunches or quick dinners. If you want to store it for even longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure the containers are freezer-safe. For reheating, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until it’s heated through. Avoid boiling, especially if the cheese has already been added. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Some people love to spread a little garlic and herb cheddar spread on the side for an extra cheesy kick when serving leftovers!
Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
What makes this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup so comforting?
It’s the combination of creamy, velvety texture from the potatoes, milk, and cream, along with the deeply savory notes of sharp cheddar, garlic, and herbs. It truly feels like a warm hug in a bowl, making it the ultimate comfort food, especially on a chilly day. This is truly an easy hearty cheddar garlic herb recipe that delivers maximum comfort.
Can I make this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make this a vegetarian dish, simply swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth. The cheese and other ingredients are vegetarian-friendly, so it’s a simple substitution that keeps all the delicious flavor intact.
How can I make this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup thicker or thinner?
To thicken the soup, you can simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate, or you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry and stir it into the simmering soup until thickened. If it’s too thick, simply stir in a little more milk or broth until you reach your desired consistency.
What are some good pairings for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?
This soup is fantastic on its own, but it’s even better with a side! Crusty bread for dipping is a must, perhaps a slice of that amazing hearty herb and cheese bread. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette or even some grilled cheese sandwiches make this a complete and satisfying meal. It’s a versatile choice for any occasion.
Variations of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup You Can Try
This soup is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs. It’s a fantastic base for creating your own signature garlic cheddar herb comfort food.
- Lighter Version: For a lower-fat option, swap the heavy cream for more milk or even unsweetened almond milk. You can also use a reduced-sodium chicken or vegetable broth.
- Vegan Delight: To make this soup vegan, use vegetable broth, omit the dairy entirely, and stir in a vegan cheddar cheese alternative and a splash of unsweetened plant-based milk or cashew cream at the end.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce along with the herbs in Step 3. A touch of smoked paprika also adds a lovely depth and warmth.
- Heartier Meal: Transform this soup into a complete meal by stirring in shredded cooked chicken, turkey sausage, or even some white beans before serving. It’s a great way to use up leftovers and make it even more filling.
Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb: 25-Min Comfort Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian-friendly
Description
A creamy, cheesy, and herbaceous potato soup with a rich cheddar, garlic, and herb flavor, perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped chives, extra cheddar, cooked turkey bacon bits
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour over onions and garlic, stirring to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes. Slowly whisk in broth to create a smooth base.
- Add diced potatoes, thyme, rosemary, and parsley. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Partially blend the soup with an immersion blender, or mash half the potatoes with a masher, leaving some chunks for texture.
- Stir in milk, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar. Simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes until cheese is melted and soup is velvety. Season with salt and pepper.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with optional toppings like chives or turkey bacon bits.
Notes
- For a lighter soup, use unsweetened almond milk instead of milk and omit the cream.
- Add shredded cooked chicken or beef sausage before serving for a heartier meal.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar for smoother melting; pre-shredded cheese can cause graininess.
- Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a hint of heat.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days and taste even better the next day. Reheat gently, stirring often.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 11g
