Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is the perfect combination of rich, creamy texture and bold, comforting flavors. This recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a hearty meal that feels both rustic and indulgent. The sharpness of cheddar cheese balances beautifully with the earthy creaminess of potatoes, while garlic and herbs add depth and aromatic charm. Whether served as a weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend meal, or even as a starter for a family gathering, this soup never fails to satisfy. Its wholesome ingredients and inviting aroma create an experience that feels both nourishing and indulgent. With its smooth yet chunky consistency, it appeals to all palates, making it an excellent dish to add to your repertoire. This soup is also highly versatile—you can adapt it to suit dietary preferences or personal taste, making it a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup: A Comforting Bowl of Flavor
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy, comforting potato soup loaded with cheddar cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs, perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: extra cheese, croutons, green onions, or bacon bits
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add diced potatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture (or transfer half the soup to a blender and return to the pot).
- Stir in milk, cheddar cheese, parsley, thyme, and paprika. Simmer gently for 5 minutes until cheese is melted and soup is creamy.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with desired toppings.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, substitute half the milk with heavy cream.
- Yukon gold potatoes can be used instead of russet for a creamier texture.
- To make vegetarian, use vegetable broth. To make vegan, use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Potatoes
The backbone of this soup, potatoes provide the creamy, starchy base. Russet or Yukon Gold are particularly good choices as they soften well while still holding structure, creating a hearty texture.
Cheddar Cheese
Sharp cheddar delivers tangy richness and helps achieve the soup’s velvety consistency. It melts beautifully, infusing every spoonful with bold, savory flavor.
Garlic
Garlic adds a pungent warmth and depth of flavor that balances the creamy richness. Roasting or sautéing it beforehand enhances its sweetness.
Onion
A classic addition to most soups, onion contributes aromatic depth and a subtle sweetness that complements the potatoes and cheese.
Carrots
Carrots add a gentle sweetness and vibrant color, balancing the savory richness with natural earthy notes.
Celery
Celery brings freshness and a slight herbal quality that lifts the heavier flavors of cheese and potatoes.
Butter
Butter provides a smooth, rich foundation for sautéing vegetables, enhancing their natural sweetness and adding body to the soup.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth
The broth serves as the flavorful liquid base. Chicken broth offers savory depth, while vegetable broth is a great vegetarian alternative.
Milk or Cream
Dairy enriches the soup, adding creaminess and ensuring a silky, smooth texture. For an extra indulgent bowl, cream is the ideal choice.
Fresh Herbs (Thyme, Parsley, Chives)
Herbs bring vibrancy and freshness, cutting through the richness while adding aromatic layers to the dish.
Salt and Pepper
Essential seasonings that balance flavors and highlight the natural taste of the ingredients.
Directions
Start by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant. Once the vegetables have released their aroma, stir in the diced potatoes and coat them evenly with the buttery base. Pour in the broth, ensuring the vegetables are fully covered, and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and allow the mixture to simmer until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
When the potatoes have softened, lightly mash a portion of them in the pot to thicken the soup while leaving some chunks for texture. Stir in milk or cream, adjusting the consistency to your preference. Next, add the cheddar cheese gradually, stirring until fully melted and incorporated. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese and herbs if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields about 6 servings, making it suitable for a family meal or a small gathering. Preparation takes approximately 15 minutes, while cooking requires 30–35 minutes, resulting in a total time of around 50 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much during storage, add a splash of broth or milk to restore its creamy consistency. Freezing is possible, though the dairy may slightly separate upon thawing; reheating slowly and whisking helps return its smoothness.
Variations and Customizations
Smoky Bacon Twist
Add crispy bacon crumbles for a smoky, savory note that pairs beautifully with cheddar.
Broccoli Addition
Incorporate steamed broccoli florets for a boost of nutrition and color.
Spicy Kick
Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to introduce gentle heat.
Lighter Version
Substitute cream with low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk for a lighter consistency.
Vegetarian-Friendly
Use vegetable broth and opt for sharp vegetarian cheddar to keep it meat-free.
Rustic Style
Leave the potatoes chunkier and add extra vegetables for a more rustic, stew-like finish.
Extra Creamy
Blend half the soup until smooth and mix it back into the pot for an ultra-silky texture.
Herb Variation
Experiment with rosemary, dill, or tarragon for different aromatic profiles.
Protein Boost
Add shredded cooked chicken or turkey for a heartier version.
Topped with Croutons
Serve with homemade croutons for a satisfying crunch.
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well and can be made a day in advance.
Can I freeze potato soup?
Yes, but the texture may change due to dairy separation. Reheat gently while stirring.
What potatoes work best?
Yukon Gold and Russet are the most reliable choices for creaminess and texture.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not rely on flour for thickening.
How can I thicken the soup more?
Mash more potatoes directly in the pot or add a small slurry of cornstarch and water.
Is it possible to make this vegan?
Yes, use vegetable broth, plant-based milk, and vegan cheese alternatives.
How do I prevent cheese from clumping?
Add cheese gradually while stirring over low heat to ensure smooth melting.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
It works, but freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and avoids additives.
Conclusion
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite. With its creamy base, sharp cheddar richness, and fragrant herbs, it strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nourishment. This recipe’s adaptability ensures it can suit different tastes and occasions, from a family dinner to a casual gathering with friends. Easy to prepare and store, it is as practical as it is delicious, making it a valuable addition to your recipe collection. Once you try this soup, it is sure to become a recurring favorite at your table.
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