Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cool evenings or whenever you need a warm hug in a bowl. This creamy, savory soup is packed with flavors that tell a story of home cooking, bringing families together around the dinner table. With creamy notes of garlic and rich cheddar, it’s a dish that feels like a cozy evening by the fireplace.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There are countless reasons to whip up this delightful potato soup. For starters, it’s quick and easy to make, taking you from the kitchen to the dinner table in just about 30 minutes. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, with simple ingredients that won’t break the bank. This family-approved classic is comforting and satisfying, making it ideal for weeknights, holidays, or potlucks when you want to impress guests without all the fuss.
But don’t just take my word for it; here’s a glowing endorsement from one of our home cooks:
"This soup blew my family away! Not only was it easy to make, but we couldn’t get enough of that cheesy, garlicky flavor. I’ll be making it again and again!" – Sarah J.
Preparing Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Making this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup involves sautéing aromatic veggies, creating a rich roux, and finishing with cheesy goodness—sounds delicious, right? The combination of Yukon Gold potatoes with fresh herbs, plus that sharp cheddar cheese, creates a soup that’s thick, creamy, and absolutely irresistible. Follow along to see how easy it is!
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to gather before diving into your cooking adventure:
- 2.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter OR 3 tablespoons olive oil + 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 5-6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (optional)
Optional garnishes: cooked bacon, extra cheddar cheese, sour cream, fresh chives, croutons.
Feel free to swap out the cheddar for your favorite cheese or use vegan alternatives to match your dietary preferences!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Peel and chop the potatoes into ½-inch cubes, then rinse them in cold water.
- In a large pot, heat butter (or oil) over medium heat. Sauté the onion for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in broth until smooth and bring to a simmer.
- Add potato cubes and cook for 15-20 minutes until tender.
- Blend half of the soup until smooth and return it to the pot.
- Reduce heat and stir in milk and cream, herbs, and cheese until melted.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
- Serve garnished with toppings of choice.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This soup is incredibly versatile, and you can enjoy it in so many ways! Serve it hot with some crusty bread for dipping, or top it off with crispy bacon bits, a dollop of sour cream, or additional cheese for that rich, creamy texture. Fresh herbs like chives and parsley add a lovely finishing touch while giving it that special Southern charm. Pair it with a light salad or a sandwich to create a comforting lunch or dinner.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare because this soup is so good!), refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if it thickens up too much. You can also freeze the soup for up to 2-3 months—just be sure to leave out any garnishes before freezing!
Helpful Cooking Tips
- For ultra-creamy soup, make sure to blend the portion really well for that luscious texture.
- Don’t skip the seasoning—salt and pepper elevate the flavors beautifully.
- Feel free to get creative with your herbs! Dill or basil can add an exciting twist.
- You can always swap the heavy cream for more milk or a nut-based alternative to reduce the richness.
Recipe Variations
Looking to switch things up? Here are a few variations you might want to consider:
- Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
- Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and skip heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Swap the cheese: Try different kinds of cheese like Gruyère or pepper jack for unique flavors.
Common Questions
How long does it take to prepare?
This comforting soup can be ready in about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to keep the creamy consistency without the gluten.
How do I store leftover potato soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 2-3 months. Just reheat on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy!
Dive into this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup any time you’re craving a warm, comforting meal that feels like home. Happy cooking!