There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of soup, especially on cool evenings or after a long day. The rich aroma of garlic mingling with melted cheddar cheese draws you in, promising warmth and nourishment with every spoonful. This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is a delightful twist on a classic, transforming simple ingredients into a luscious, savory experience that feels like a hug in a bowl.
I first crafted this recipe after searching for a dish that would excite my taste buds while still being easy to whip up on busy weeknights. With the earthy, creamy Yukon Gold potatoes at its base, combined with fragrant garlic and fresh herbs, it’s quickly become a go-to for family gatherings and cozy dinners alike. Plus, the versatility is a game-changer! Whether you’re enjoying it on its own or using it as a delicious side, this soup satisfies every time. Let’s dive into this creamy goodness that will elevate your mealtime routine and entice your loved ones away from takeout!
Why is Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup irresistible?
There’s an enchanting warmth to each bowl that wraps you in comfort.
- Rich Creaminess: The combination of cheddar cheese and heavy cream makes for an indulgent, velvety texture.
- Herbaceous Freshness: Fresh parsley, chives, and thyme infuse a delightful fragrance that elevates simple potatoes to gourmet status.
- Flavor Explosion: Garlic brings a savory depth that harmonizes beautifully with the sharpness of the cheese.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this soup impresses even the pickiest eaters.
- Quick & Simple: With straightforward steps and minimal prep, you can have a delightful meal on the table in no time.
Dive into this Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, and you’ll discover why it’s destined to become a favorite!
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Ingredients
For the Soup
- Yukon Gold potatoes – 2.5 lbs, peeled and cubed for a creamy base that absorbs flavors beautifully.
- Unsalted butter OR olive oil – 4 tablespoons butter or a mix of 3 tablespoons oil and 1 tablespoon butter to enhance richness without overpowering the dish.
- Yellow onion – 1 large finely chopped onion (about 1.5 cups) will add depth and sweetness to the soup.
- Garlic – 5-6 cloves minced for that aromatic, savory kick that transforms the soup into something special.
- All-purpose flour – 1/4 cup helps to thicken the soup, giving it a luxurious texture.
- Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth – 4 cups to keep flavors balanced and allow the potato essence to shine.
- Whole milk OR half-and-half – 2 cups of whole milk adds creaminess, while half-and-half brings extra richness.
- Heavy cream – 1/2 cup (optional) for those who want even more decadence in their soup.
- Sharp cheddar cheese – 2 cups freshly shredded for that melty goodness and robust flavor.
For the Herbs and Seasoning
- Fresh parsley – 1 tablespoon finely chopped to add a pop of color and freshness.
- Fresh chives – 1 tablespoon finely chopped enhances the soup with a mild onion flavor.
- Fresh thyme leaves – 1 teaspoon or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme gives an earthy touch and balances the richness.
- Salt – 1 teaspoon (or to taste) to enhance all the flavors in the soup.
- Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground (or to taste) adds a warm bite.
- Cayenne pepper or smoked paprika – A pinch for an optional kick of heat and smokiness.
Embrace the cozy flavors of this Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, and get ready to savor every spoonful!
How to Make Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
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Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the Yukon Gold potatoes and chop them into uniform ½-inch cubes. Rinse the cubed potatoes under cold water and set aside to keep them fresh.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the butter (or olive oil and butter combo). Once melted, add the finely chopped yellow onion. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent, filling your kitchen with a savory aroma.
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Add Garlic: Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until fragrant. The smell of garlic should perk up your senses!
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Make the Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring continuously to create a roux for about 1-2 minutes. This will help thicken your soup later on.
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Incorporate Broth: Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to avoid any lumps. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
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Add Potatoes: Stir in the rinsed potato cubes and mix well. Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are very tender, giving them a chance to absorb all the flavors. Stir occasionally.
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Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until creamy, or transfer part of it to a standard blender for a smoother texture, blending until about half to two-thirds of it is creamy.
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Stir in Dairy: Reduce the heat to low, then slowly pour in the whole milk (or half-and-half) and heavy cream. Stir in the fresh parsley, chives, and thyme. Heat gently for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
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Add Cheese: Remove from heat and gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until melted and beautifully creamy.
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Season to Taste: Taste the soup and season with salt, black pepper, and add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika if you want a bit of a kick.
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Serve & Garnish: Ladle the hot, creamy soup into bowls and garnish with toppings such as crumbled bacon, extra cheese, sour cream, fresh chives, or croutons for added texture.
Optional: Top with crispy bacon bits for an extra savory twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup components are perfect for meal prep! You can chop the Yukon Gold potatoes and store them in a bowl of cold water in the fridge for up to 24 hours to prevent browning. The onions and garlic can also be sautéed in advance, refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the sautéed mixture, follow the original recipe from the broth stage, and blend the soup as directed. This method ensures that your soup remains just as delicious and allows you to serve a warm, hearty meal with minimal effort during busy weeknights.
Expert Tips for Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
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Cube Uniformly: Cut your potatoes into ½-inch cubes to ensure even cooking and a creamy texture throughout the soup.
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Don’t Rush the Roux: Allow the flour to cook in the butter for 1-2 minutes to avoid a raw taste; this creates a rich base for your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup.
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Season Gradually: Always taste as you go! Add salt and pepper gradually to balance the flavors, enhancing the overall richness without overwhelming the dish.
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Blend to Preference: For a chunkier texture, blend only half the soup. Adjust blending to your taste preference for the perfect creamy consistency.
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Garnish Creatively: Top with crumbled bacon, a sprinkle of extra cheese, or fresh herbs to elevate the presentation and add exciting flavors.
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Storage Savvy: This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat to maintain the creamy texture before serving again.
How to Store and Freeze Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
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Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh while maintaining its creamy goodness.
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Freezer: Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent ice crystals.
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Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. If the soup thickens, add a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creamy consistency.
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Thawing: To thaw frozen soup, place it in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Enjoy a comforting bowl anytime!
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup and let your culinary imagination run wild!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk and heavy cream with coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free option that’s still rich and delicious.
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Veggie Boost: Add in 1 cup of diced carrots or celery for a colorful, nutritious twist that enhances both flavor and texture.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give your soup a delightful heat that will awaken your taste buds.
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Bacon Lovers: Stir in crispy, crumbled bacon either during cooking or as a garnish to add a savory crunch that complements the creaminess perfectly.
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Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs! Try using fresh dill or rosemary instead of thyme for a unique aromatic flair that brightens up the flavor profile.
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Cheese Lovers: Mix in other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a distinct, melty goodness that adds an extra layer of complexity.
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Creamier Texture: For a super creamy version, replace some of the potato with cauliflower. This not only thickens the soup but reduces carbs too.
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Chunky Style: For a heartier broth, don’t blend all the potatoes. Leave some chunks for a more rustic texture that feels extra satisfying in every spoonful.
Each variation allows you to craft a personalized soup experience that keeps the warmth alive in your kitchen and fills every bowl with love and joy!
What to Serve with Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?
Pair your deliciously creamy soup with sides that enhance its rich flavors, creating a cozy and satisfying meal.
- Crusty Bread: The perfect accompaniment for dipping, a warm, crusty loaf provides a delightful contrast to the smooth soup.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds a burst of freshness that balances the hearty soup.
- Garlic Breadsticks: They’re a crowd favorite! The buttery garlic flavor pairs harmoniously, making your meal feel indulgent and comforting.
- Roasted Vegetables: Crispy roasted seasonal vegetables bring a wonderful texture and earthy sweetness, complementing the soup beautifully.
- Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: Savory and crispy, these add a gourmet touch while their earthy flavors elevate the overall taste experience.
- Cheddar Biscuits: Flaky, cheesy biscuits echo the cheddar in the soup, creating a delicious consistency that comforts the soul.
- Savory Pumpkin Hummus with Pita Chips: Its creamy texture and warm spices offer a delightful contrast to the soup, perfect for an appetizer before the main dish.
- Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine adds a rich depth that enhances the flavors of the soup while elevating the dining experience.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet ending, soft, warm cookies juxtapose the soup’s savory elements, leaving you with a satisfying conclusion to your meal.
- Fruit Tart: A tart with a sweet filling balances the meal nicely, offering a light, refreshing finish after the richness of the soup.
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best potatoes for this soup?
Absolutely! I recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture and buttery flavor. Look for potatoes that are firm, with no dark spots or blemishes. If you find any green patches, it’s best to choose another potato, as the green indicates solanine, which can be toxic.
How should I store leftover Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?
To keep the soup fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on low heat to ensure the creamy texture remains intact. Stir occasionally, and feel free to add a splash of milk or broth if the soup has thickened.
Can I freeze Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?
Very! To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently, adding a little milk or broth to restore its creamy consistency.
What if my soup turns out too thick?
No worries! If your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is too thick, simply add a bit of broth or warm milk while stirring until you achieve your desired consistency. Remember, it’s always easier to add liquid than to take it away, so add gradually for the best results.
Is this soup suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Sure! To make this soup suitable for a dairy-free diet, you can substitute the milk and cream with unsweetened almond milk or a full-bodied non-dairy cream alternative. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens, especially if serving to guests with dietary considerations.
How long can I keep the soup in the fridge?
The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To ensure freshness, store it in an airtight container and give it a good stir before serving again to re-integrate the ingredients. Enjoy a cozy bowl anytime!
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup for Cozy Comfort on Chilly Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the Yukon Gold potatoes and chop them into uniform ½-inch cubes. Rinse and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt butter (or oil) over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add Garlic: Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle flour over the sautéed ingredients and stir for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Incorporate Broth: Gradually whisk in the broth, scraping the bottom to avoid lumps, and bring to a simmer.
- Add Potatoes: Stir in the potatoes and let it all simmer for 15-20 minutes until very tender.
- Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to blend until creamy or blend half in a standard blender.
- Stir in Dairy: Reduce heat to low, slowly add in milk and cream, and stir in herbs. Heat gently for 5 minutes.
- Add Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar until melted.
- Season to Taste: Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
- Serve & Garnish: Ladle into bowls and garnish with toppings like bacon, extra cheese, or herbs.