Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

If you are craving a bowl of pure comfort that warms every corner of your heart and kitchen, this Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is exactly what you need. Rich, creamy, and bursting with fresh herbs, sharp cheddar, and the gentle bite of garlic, this soup transforms simple ingredients into a spectacular dish that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly evening or looking to impress guests with something truly soul-satisfying, the Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup will quickly become your go-to favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the secret to that perfect bowl. Each one plays a crucial role—olive oil and onions build the flavorful base, herbs bring layers of earthy aroma, potatoes create the creamy body, and sharp cheddar adds that irresistible cheesy hit.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to gently sauté the onions, bringing out their natural sweetness.
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped: Adds a subtle savory foundation with a touch of sweetness when cooked.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with a fragrant, robust taste that pairs beautifully with herbs.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a delicate herbal note that brightens the soup’s flavor profile.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary: Adds a woodsy, pine-like aroma for depth of flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Provides a gentle kick, balancing richness with mild heat.
• 6 cups Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 2 pounds): Creamy and naturally buttery, these potatoes create the luxurious texture.
• 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option): Serves as the flavorful liquid base that simmers the potatoes tender.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Adds richness without overpowering, making the soup silky smooth.
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus more for garnish: The star ingredient that brings cheesy sharpness and melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh chives, plus more for garnish: Adds a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish: Brings a fresh, herbaceous brightness to finish the soup.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring everything into perfect balance.
• Optional toppings: crumbled bacon, sour cream, croutons: Perfect add-ons for extra texture and indulgence.

How to Make Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by warming the olive oil over medium heat in a large pot or Dutch oven. Toss in the chopped onion and gently cook until it becomes soft, translucent, and fragrant. This careful cooking builds the savory foundation your soup needs.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Herbs

Now, stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and if you’re feeling a little adventurous, the red pepper flakes. Cook these together for about a minute, just until the aromatics really start to sing and fill your kitchen with mouthwatering scents.

Step 3: Combine Potatoes and Broth

Next, add your beautifully cubed Yukon Gold potatoes and pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Make sure the potatoes are fully submerged—this helps everything cook evenly and soak in that flavorful broth.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender enough to mash easily with a fork. This step is key to your soup’s creamy texture.

Step 5: Blend the Soup to Perfection

Here’s where the magic happens! Carefully work in batches to blend the soup smooth using a blender, or simply grab your immersion blender and puree everything directly in the pot. The result: a luscious, velvety base ready for its cheesy upgrade.

Step 6: Add Cream and Cheese

Pour the blended soup back into the pot (if it’s not already there), then stir in the heavy cream and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Keep the heat low and stir constantly until the cheese melts into a silky, dreamy consistency. Avoid boiling here to keep it perfectly smooth.

Step 7: Finish With Fresh Herbs and Seasoning

Finally, fold in the chopped fresh chives and parsley to lighten the richness with fresh herbal notes. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking—you want every spoonful to burst with balanced flavor.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into your favorite bowls and add a little extra shredded cheddar, chives, parsley, or those fabulous optional toppings. Crumbled bacon, a dollop of sour cream, or crunchy croutons make it even more irresistible.

How to Serve Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Garnishes

Don’t skip garnishes—they add texture, color, and extra bursts of flavor. Shredded sharp cheddar melts beautifully on top, while fresh chives and parsley give a lovely pop of green. Crumbled bacon adds smokiness and crunch, and a swirl of sour cream or crunchy croutons rounds out the experience.

Side Dishes

Pair your soup with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette or warm, crusty bread to soak up every last creamy drop. A simple grilled cheese sandwich makes an unbeatable match and turns the meal into casual comfort food heaven.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve the Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup in small ramekins for a starter or buffet-friendly option. You can also hollow out a small round loaf of rustic bread and ladle the soup inside for a stunning, edible bowl that doubles the delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer your leftover soup to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, which is perfect for quick meals or reheating after a busy day.

Freezing

Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup freezes well! Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the soup over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly and the cheese doesn’t separate. Adding a splash of cream or broth can bring back that silky texture if needed.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you’ll have a rich, satisfying vegetarian version that’s just as tasty.

What type of potatoes work best for this soup?

Yukon Gold potatoes are preferred because they have a creamy texture and slightly buttery flavor, which make the soup especially smooth and flavorful.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Pre-shredded cheese works fine in a pinch, but freshly shredded sharp cheddar melts more smoothly and has better flavor for this soup.

Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a creamy plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free cheese to adapt the recipe for dairy-free diets.

What should the consistency of the soup be?

It should be creamy and thick, yet pourable—like a rich chowder. If it’s too thick after blending, simply stir in a little extra broth or cream until you reach your desired texture.

Final Thoughts

This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a little bowl of joy that invites you to slow down and savor the flavors of home. With its comforting creaminess, fresh herb aroma, and cheesy warmth, it’s the perfect dish to share and enjoy any time you want something deliciously satisfying. Give it a try and watch it become a heartfelt staple in your kitchen!

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