If you are craving a bowl of warmth and comfort that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day, this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is your new best friend. Packed with the rich flavors of sharp cheddar, fragrant garlic, and a perfect blend of herbs, this soup is creamy and satisfying without being complicated. The tender russet potatoes, infused with thyme and rosemary, create a luscious texture that’s both hearty and smooth—making every spoonful a delight. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe balances simplicity and indulgence beautifully.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that lend incredible flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role from enhancing creaminess to adding aromatic depth and color to the soup.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps sauté the onions and garlic perfectly.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Balances the butter’s richness with a subtle fruity note and prevents burning.
- Yellow Onion (1 medium, diced): Provides a savory base with sweetness when sautéed.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the soup with its characteristic robust flavor.
- Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon): Brings a gentle earthy aroma supporting the herbaceous profile.
- Dried Rosemary (1/2 teaspoon): Adds pine-like fragrance and complexity.
- Smoked Paprika (1/4 teaspoon): Offers subtle smoky warmth without overpowering.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a mild heat that awakens the palate.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon, more to taste): Essential for balancing and intensifying flavors.
- Russet Potatoes (4 cups, peeled and diced): The star ingredient lending body and creamy texture to the soup.
- Low-Sodium Chicken or Vegetable Broth (3 cups): Provides a flavorful liquid base without excess saltiness.
- Milk (1 cup): Lightens the soup while maintaining creaminess.
- Heavy Cream (1/2 cup): Elevates the soup to velvety decadence.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese (1 1/2 cups, shredded): Melts into the hot soup for that signature cheesy goodness.
- Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Adds a fresh pop of color and subtle herb flavor as garnish.
- Optional toppings: Extra cheese, cooked bacon, sour cream, green onions to customize your bowl.
How to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Begin by warming butter and olive oil in a large pot set over medium heat. Once melted and hot, toss in the diced yellow onion, letting it soften and become translucent—this usually takes about 4 to 5 minutes. The onions create a sweet and savory foundation that pairs beautifully with the garlic. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt, stirring everything together to release the herbs’ fragrances fully. Cook for one more minute so the flavors can meld, setting up a wonderfully aromatic base for the soup.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
Next, stir in the peeled and diced russet potatoes, coating them gently in the fragrant mixture. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring everything up to a boil. After boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let the potatoes cook for 15 to 20 minutes until they’re fork-tender, which guarantees they’ll mash easily, contributing to a creamy yet textured consistency in the final soup.
Step 3: Mash for Texture
To get that perfect hearty yet silky texture, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot. Be careful not to overblend—you want a mix of smooth creaminess and small chunks for delightful mouthfeel with every bite.
Step 4: Add Dairy and Cheese
Pour in the milk and heavy cream and gently stir to combine. Then, sprinkle in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring consistently until it melts completely and the soup turns luxuriously creamy. This step transforms the soup into the indulgent comfort food it’s meant to be. Taste your creation, and adjust salt or pepper if needed.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish by adding freshly chopped parsley for a bright contrast in both flavor and appearance. Your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is now ready to warm up your plate and heart!
How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is where you can bring your personal touch and elevate this comforting soup. Fresh chopped parsley adds a lovely herbal brightness and a splash of color. For extra indulgence, consider sprinkling additional shredded sharp cheddar cheese or crumbled crispy bacon. A dollop of sour cream or a scattering of thinly sliced green onions also pairs delightfully, providing creamy tang or mild crispness that balances the soup’s rich texture.
Side Dishes
This soup is fabulous on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides. Freshly baked crusty bread or warm garlic bread makes for perfect dipping companions. A side green salad or roasted vegetables can add variation in texture and freshness, making the meal feel complete and nourishment-packed.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress your guests, serve the soup in mini bread bowls for a rustic yet charming touch. Alternatively, ladle the soup into clear glass mugs or jars layered with garnishes for a modern, visually enticing presentation. Topping with a swirl of cream or a sprinkle of smoked paprika right before serving can also make the bowl pop and heighten anticipation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftover soup to an airtight container and refrigerate. The soup keeps well for up to 3 days, during which the flavors continue to meld deliciously. Keep in mind it may thicken in the fridge, so a little extra broth or milk will be needed when reheating.
Freezing
This hearty soup freezes beautifully, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal. Portion it in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving room for expansion. Store for up to 3 months. Avoid adding fresh garnishes before freezing; save those for after thawing and reheating for peak freshness.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup has become too thick. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring between each, to ensure even warming without curdling the cheese or dairy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar adds a distinctive tang and richness, you can experiment with cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky gouda for a slightly different flavor profile. Just be mindful of melting properties for a smooth consistency.
Is this soup suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! If you substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth, this recipe becomes vegetarian-friendly without compromising on flavor or texture.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, replace the butter with olive oil, use a plant-based milk (like oat or almond milk), and choose a dairy-free cheese alternative. The soup may be less creamy but will still be delicious with these adjustments.
Why should I leave some potato chunks instead of blending everything?
Leaving some chunks adds body and texture to the soup, making it more interesting and hearty. Fully blending can create a thinner, more uniform soup that might miss the comforting feel of tender potato bites.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes with the herbs during cooking is an easy way to introduce heat. Alternatively, topping with spicy chorizo or jalapeño slices can bring a pleasant kick.
Final Thoughts
This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is much more than just a meal—it’s a warm invitation to savor simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. Every spoonful comforts, delights, and encourages sharing around the table. I encourage you to dive into making this soup your own and discover how easy it is to create a homemade classic that feels gourmet. Ready your ladle and enjoy the cozy, cheesy goodness waiting for you!
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Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is a comforting and creamy dish perfect for chilly days. Packed with tender potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and flavorful herbs like thyme and rosemary, this soup offers a rich and satisfying meal that’s easy to make on the stovetop. Garnished with fresh parsley and customizable toppings, it’s an inviting classic that’s both hearty and delicious.
Ingredients
Sauté Base
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, more to taste
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Garnishes and Optional Toppings
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
- Cooked bacon
- Sour cream
- Green onions
Instructions
- Heat Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until soft and translucent, building a flavorful base for your soup.
- Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant to release the herbs’ full aroma.
- Cook Potatoes: Add the peeled and diced russet potatoes to the pot. Pour in the low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Partially Mash Potatoes: Using a potato masher or immersion blender, mash some of the potatoes right in the pot to thicken the soup but leave some chunks intact to maintain texture and body.
- Add Dairy and Cheese: Stir in the milk and heavy cream, followed by the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix well until the cheese melts completely and the soup becomes creamy and smooth.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste your soup and adjust the salt or pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and your choice of optional toppings such as extra cheese, cooked bacon, sour cream, or green onions for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a lighter soup, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream or use all milk instead.
- Yukon Gold potatoes can be used to create a creamier texture compared to russet potatoes.
- This soup reheats well but tends to thicken when chilled; add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it when reheating.
