Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

There is something undeniably comforting and soul-satisfying about a bowl of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. This dish wraps you in velvety richness, the perfect balance of sharp cheddar cheese, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs mingling with tender Yukon Gold potatoes. Each spoonful brings warmth and creamy goodness, making it an ideal meal whether you’re cozying up on a chilly evening or craving that heartwarming flavor to brighten your day. It’s not just soup; it’s a hug in a bowl that celebrates simple ingredients transformed into something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role—from the golden potatoes delivering a creamy texture to the sharp cheddar that adds boldness and melt-in-your-mouth indulgence. Let’s dive into the essentials that you’ll feel excited to gather for this cozy recipe.

• 2.5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes peeled and cubed: These potatoes become tender while holding their shape, giving the soup body and texture.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter or 3 tablespoons olive oil plus 1 tablespoon butter: Butter adds richness, while olive oil helps sauté the aromatics beautifully.
• 1 large yellow onion finely chopped: Provides a sweet and savory foundation that enhances every bite.
• 5 to 6 garlic cloves minced: Brings that signature garlic warmth and depth without overpowering.
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the soup, creating that luscious creamy feel you want.
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth: The liquid backbone, warming all the flavors together.
• 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half: Adds to the creaminess and softens the sharper edges of the cheese.
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional but dreamy): For extra velvety smoothness and indulgence, a little cream goes a long way.
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly shredded: The star ingredient, melting into richness and tangy goodness.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped: Introduces fresh herbaceous brightness.
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives chopped: Adds subtle oniony notes and color.
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Earthy and fragrant, it completes the herb trio perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the soup.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of heat and complexity.
• Pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika (optional): For those who like a little smoky warmth or gentle kick.

How to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by peeling your Yukon Gold potatoes and cutting them into chunky, half-inch cubes. Rinse the pieces under cold water to wash away excess starch, which helps prevent the soup from becoming gluey. Setting the potatoes aside for now lets you focus on building the soup’s flavorful base.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large soup pot, warm your butter over medium heat until melted and sizzling. Toss in the finely chopped yellow onion and cook it gently until it becomes soft and translucent, around 5 to 7 minutes. Add the minced garlic next and stir for a minute or two until the kitchen is filled with that irresistible aroma of freshly cooked garlic.

Step 3: Make the Roux Base

Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the softened onions and garlic, stirring constantly to coat everything. This mixture will thicken the soup and give it body, so allow it to cook for about a minute until it forms a smooth, glossy paste. This step is crucial for the soup’s signature creamy texture.

Step 4: Add Broth and Potatoes

Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while whisking to keep the mixture smooth. Be sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to capture all those caramelized bits that hold incredible flavor. Add the cubed potatoes, stir gently, and cover the pot. Let it simmer for approximately 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and ready to make the soup luscious.

Step 5: Blend to Desired Texture

Here is where you tailor the soup to your preference. Using an immersion blender, pulse the soup a few times to create a creamy base while still leaving some chunks of potato for bite. If you don’t have an immersion blender, scoop about half the soup into a regular blender, puree it until smooth, and then stir it back into the pot.

Step 6: Add Cream and Herbs

Lower the heat and gently stir in the milk and heavy cream, if using. Toss in the fresh parsley, chives, and thyme, allowing the herbs to infuse the soup with fresh, vibrant notes. Keep the soup warm but avoid boiling to maintain the silky texture you worked so hard to achieve.

Step 7: Melt in the Cheese

Remove the pot from heat and slowly add the shredded sharp cheddar in batches. Stir after each addition until the cheese melts smoothly, transforming the soup into a rich, golden, and irresistibly cheesy masterpiece. This stage is pure magic for any cheese lover.

Step 8: Season and Finish

Give your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. For a little extra warmth and complexity, sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Ladle the soup into bowls, dress with your favorite toppings, and get ready to savor every comforting spoonful.

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Garnishes

Garnishing your soup adds a tasty twist and visual appeal. Crispy bacon crumbles bring salty crunch, extra shredded cheddar adds gooey cheese pull, while dollops of sour cream or thick Greek yogurt contribute an indulgent creaminess. For freshness, sprinkle more herbs like chives or parsley on top, and don’t forget crunchy croutons for texture contrast.

Side Dishes

This soup loves company! Serve it with crusty bread or a warm baguette to soak up every last bit. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness beautifully. Roasted vegetables or a grilled cheese sandwich can also elevate this meal to an unbeatable comfort food experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Make your presentation fun by serving the soup in mini cast iron skillets or hollowed-out sourdough bread bowls for a rustic touch. Layer toppings in clear glass bowls to showcase the colors and textures. For entertaining, create a soup bar with various garnishes and let friends customize their bowls with different cheeses, herbs, or bacon bits.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the fresh herb flavors and creamy texture. Before serving again, stir well as some separation may occur.

Freezing

If you want to keep this soup longer, freeze it in portions using freezer-safe containers. Because it contains dairy and cheese, it’s best to freeze it without the cream and cheese, adding those fresh when reheating to keep the soup luscious and avoid curdling.

Reheating

Gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to prevent scorching. Add cream and shredded cheese towards the end for that just-melted, fresh-from-the-pot taste. A splash of milk can help adjust consistency if it thickened during storage.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives the soup its distinctive bite, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky Gouda for a unique twist.

Is there a vegan version of this soup?

You can create a vegan Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup by swapping dairy for plant-based milks and using vegan butter and cheese alternatives. Also, use vegetable broth to keep it entirely plant-based.

Can I make this soup in advance for a party?

Yes! This soup reheats beautifully, making it perfect for entertaining. Prepare it a day ahead and gently warm with fresh cheese and cream added just before serving to keep it tasty and fresh.

How thick should the soup be?

It’s a balance of creamy and chunky textures. You want enough thickness to coat your spoon but with some tender potato chunks remaining for delightful texture and bite.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Dried herbs work well in a pinch; just use about half the amount called for and add them earlier during cooking to help release their flavors fully.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup that keeps people coming back bowl after bowl. Its creamy, cheesy richness balanced with fresh herbs and fragrant garlic feels like a warm embrace you can savor any day. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both satisfying and soul-soothing, I encourage you to give this soup a try—you might just find your new favorite comfort food.

Print