When chilly evenings beckon and you find yourself yearning for something cozy yet delightful, this Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is just what you need. The moment you stir this bubbling pot, the heady aroma of garlic mingling with rich, melted cheddar fills the kitchen, wrapping you in warmth. It’s a dish that effortlessly blends rich flavors and comfort, transforming simple ingredients like Yukon Gold potatoes and fresh herbs into a hearty masterpiece.
I uncovered this recipe as I was searching for a way to elevate my weeknight dinners—no more boring takeout! Instead, this soup became my go-to for impressing family and friends alike. The best part? It’s as flexible as it is comforting; you can switch up the herbs or even toss in leftover veggies lurking in your fridge. With just a few steps, you’ll have a bowlful of creamy, cheesy goodness that nourishes not only the body but the soul. Let’s dive into this deliciously easy recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home!
Why is Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup irresistible?
Creamy Comfort: The luscious blend of sharp cheddar and smooth cream creates a comforting soup that warms you from the inside out.
Easy Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip this up without hassle.
Versatile Additions: Transform this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or experimenting with spices to suit your taste.
Family Favorite: Delight both kids and adults alike with a dish that delivers a comforting taste of home-cooked goodness.
Perfect for Leftovers: Enjoy the satisfaction of making a big batch—this soup gets even better the next day!
Turn chilly evenings into cozy gatherings with this delectable recipe that will quickly become a favorite!
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Ingredients
Dive into the creamy goodness of Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup with these essential ingredients!
For the Soup
- Yukon Gold potatoes – 2.5 lbs, peeled and cubed for a buttery flavor.
- Unsalted butter or olive oil – 4 tablespoons (or 3 tablespoons olive oil + 1 tablespoon butter) – enhances richness.
- Yellow onion – 1 large, finely chopped (about 1.5 cups) – adds sweetness and depth.
- Garlic – 5–6 cloves, minced (about 2 tablespoons) – infuses delightful aroma and flavor.
- All-purpose flour – 1/4 cup – thickens the soup to creamy perfection.
- Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth – 4 cups – provides a savory base without excess salt.
- Whole milk (or half-and-half) – 2 cups – adds creaminess and richness.
- Heavy cream (optional) – 1/2 cup – for an indulgent finish.
- Sharp cheddar cheese – 2 cups, freshly shredded – delivers a bold, cheesy flavor.
For the Freshness
- Fresh parsley – 1 tablespoon, finely chopped – brightens the dish with a pop of color.
- Fresh chives – 1 tablespoon, finely chopped – adds a mild oniony flavor.
- Fresh thyme leaves – 1 teaspoon (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme) – brings aromatic earthiness.
To Season
- Salt – 1 teaspoon (or to taste) – enhances all the soup’s flavors.
- Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground (or to taste) – adds a subtle kick.
- Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (optional) – introduces warmth and depth, perfect for spice lovers.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to serving up a deliciously comforting bowl of Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup!
How to Make Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
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Prepare the Potatoes: Start by peeling and chopping the Yukon Gold potatoes into uniform ½-inch cubes. Rinse them under cold water to remove excess starch, then set aside to drain.
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Melt the Butter: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the butter (or your olive oil and butter mix). Watch for it to melt and shimmer, letting you know it’s ready for the next step.
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Sauté the Onions: Add the finely chopped yellow onion to the pot and sauté for 5-7 minutes. You’re aiming for a soft, translucent texture that adds sweetness to your soup.
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Add the Garlic: Toss in the minced garlic, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant and a beautiful golden color, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas.
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Make the Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring continuously. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until it’s a light, golden hue and has a lovely nutty aroma.
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Incorporate the Broth: Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen browned bits. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer as it begins to thicken.
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Add Potatoes: Gently fold in the rinsed potato cubes, stirring well. Cover the pot and cook for 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
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Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender or standard blender, blend about half to two-thirds of the soup until creamy, leaving some potato chunks for texture. This step is key for a delightful mouthfeel.
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Stir in Dairy: Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in the whole milk (or half-and-half) and heavy cream if you’re using it. Stir constantly, and let it heat through for about 5 minutes without bringing it to a boil.
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Melt the Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and gradually stir in the freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese, mixing until completely melted for that gooey, cheesy goodness.
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Season the Soup: Carefully season your soup with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika if desired for that extra kick.
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Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with optional toppings like crumbled bacon, extra cheese, sour cream, fresh chives, or croutons for an added crunch.
Optional: Top with a sprinkle of extra herbs for an added pop of color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy homemade comfort with minimal effort! You can chop and rinse the Yukon Gold potatoes and even sauté the onions and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, blend and store the soup (without the cheese) for up to 3 days in an airtight container to save time when you’re ready to enjoy it. When you’re set to serve, simply reheat the soup over low heat, stir in the cheese until melted, and enjoy a delightful bowl of warmth that’s just as delicious as fresh!
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to personalize this soup and let your culinary creativity shine!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk and cream with coconut milk or almond milk for a rich, non-dairy alternative that still delivers creaminess.
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Vegan: Use vegetable broth, olive oil, and replace cheddar cheese with cashew cheese or nutritional yeast for a delightful cheesy flavor without any animal products.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to elevate the heat level, making your soup a warming sensation on chilly nights. They’ll add a vibrant pop of color too!
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Herb Swaps: Experiment with fresh dill or basil instead of thyme to create a different aromatic experience, each bringing their unique essence to the soup.
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Bacon Lovers: Stir in crispy bacon bits right at the end or use it as a garnish for an added layer of smoky flavor that contrasts beautifully with the soup’s creaminess.
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Loaded Twist: Top your soup with extra toppings like grilled corn, avocado, or sour cream, taking inspiration from the loaded baked potato experience.
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Sweet Potato Option: Swap half of the Yukon Gold potatoes for sweet potatoes to introduce a subtle sweetness and a lovely orange hue to your soup.
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Cheese Medley: Mix different kinds of cheese such as gouda, Monterey jack, or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile that will surprise and delight your taste buds.
Let your imagination guide you in crafting the perfect bowl of comfort!
Expert Tips for Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
- Potato Variety: Use Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture and buttery flavor. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they won’t yield the same softness.
- Perfect Roux: Be mindful while making the roux; cooking even a minute too long can lead to a burnt flavor. Aim for a light golden color to keep it delicious.
- Blending Texture: Blend only half to two-thirds of the soup for a perfect balance of creaminess and texture; too much blending can make it overly smooth.
- Dairy Temperature: Add milk and cream at low heat to prevent curdling. Stir constantly to ensure a silky finish in your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup.
- Garnishing: Get creative with garnishes! Crumbled bacon, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh herbs can elevate both flavor and presentation.
How to Store and Freeze Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy the soup later, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top as it may expand when frozen.
Reheating: Thaw frozen soup in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You might want to add a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency.
Avoid Overheating: When reheating, avoid boiling the soup as it may separate or lose its creamy texture. Warm it gradually for the best results.
What to Serve with Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?
Transforming a simple bowl of soup into a delightful meal is all about thoughtful pairings that excite the palate.
- Crispy Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery goodness complements the creamy soup, adding texture and a burst of flavorful garlic.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the soup, balancing the meal perfectly.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness and crispy edges provide a lovely contrast, enhancing the overall dining experience with earthy flavors.
- Cheddar-Loaded Biscuits: Fluffy, cheesy biscuits are not only comforting but also perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up every drop.
- Herbed Quinoa: This protein-packed side dish brings a nutty flavor and delightful chew—adding heartiness alongside the creamy, soothing soup.
- Sparkling Apple Cider: This fizzy beverage offers a refreshing contrast, enhancing the soup’s rich flavors while uplifting any meal mood.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet finish, a warm cookie pairs well after enjoying the savory soup, providing a comforting, nostalgic touch.
- Apple Pie: A slice of warm apple pie brings a sweet finale, making the meal feel complete—especially when shared with loved ones.
- Homemade Croutons: Add extra crunch by garnishing the soup with these crispy delights, perfect for elevating each spoonful with flavor and texture.
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for the soup?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes. They are creamy and buttery, making the soup smooth and satisfying. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they won’t yield the same softness and might alter the overall consistency of your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup.
How should I store leftover soup?
You can store leftover Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the soup completely before sealing it up to maintain its flavor and freshness.
Can I freeze the Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?
Yes! You can definitely freeze this soup for future enjoyment. Pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. It will hold well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
How do I reheat frozen potato soup?
To reheat your frozen soup, gently thaw it in the fridge overnight. When ready to heat, pour it into a pot over low heat. Stir occasionally and consider adding a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture as it warms up. Avoid bringing it to a boil to prevent separation or curdling.
Can I customize the soup for dietary restrictions?
Very! This recipe is quite versatile. You can easily make it gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free option or cornstarch. If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, use almond milk or another plant-based milk and skip the heavy cream and cheese or opt for dairy-free cheese alternatives.
What should I do if the soup is too thick?
If you find that the soup is thicker than you like, you can simply add a bit of additional broth, milk, or water to thin it out. Start by adding a splash at a time, stirring well until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, it’s all about personal preference!
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup: Creamy Comfort in a Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and chop the Yukon Gold potatoes into uniform ½-inch cubes. Rinse them under cold water to remove excess starch, then set aside to drain.
- Melt the Butter: In a large pot over medium heat, add the butter (or olive oil mixture). Wait for it to melt and shimmer.
- Sauté the Onions: Add the finely chopped yellow onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add the Garlic: Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring continuously for about 1-2 minutes.
- Incorporate the Broth: Gradually whisk in the broth, scraping the bottom of the pot, and bring to a simmer.
- Add Potatoes: Gently fold in the potato cubes, cover the pot, and cook for 15-20 minutes until tender.
- Blend the Soup: Blend half to two-thirds of the soup until creamy, leaving some chunks for texture.
- Stir in Dairy: Reduce heat and slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly.
- Melt the Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted.
- Season the Soup: Season with salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne or paprika.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish as desired.