If you are searching for a soul-warming dish that wraps you in cheesy goodness and the aromatic charm of fresh herbs, then this Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe will quickly become your go-to comfort food. Imagine tender potatoes simmered in a rich broth, perfectly balanced with sharp cheddar cheese, fragrant garlic, and the subtle earthiness of thyme or rosemary—all coming together in a creamy bowl of pure happiness. This soup not only satisfies your cravings but also feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is simple yet vital, working in harmony to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the comforting starchiness of potatoes to the vibrant punch of fresh herbs, every component plays its part beautifully.
- 4 cups diced potatoes: The hearty base that gives the soup body and that comforting bite you crave.
- 3 cups chicken broth: Adds savory depth and moisture, infusing the potatoes with flavor as they cook.
- 1 cup milk or cream: Brings a luscious creaminess that makes this soup impossibly smooth.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The star ingredient delivering melty, sharp cheesiness that elevates every spoonful.
- 2 tbsp butter: For a rich, velvety foundation that helps cook garlic perfectly and enhances flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with a warm, aromatic bite that wakes up the palate.
- 1 tsp thyme or rosemary: Fresh herbs add subtle notes of earthiness and brightness, balancing the richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that sharpen and round out the overall flavor.
How to Make Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Garlic in Butter
Begin by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant but not browned. This step releases the garlic’s aroma and flavors the butter, creating a taste base that is truly irresistible for the soup.
Step 2: Simmer Potatoes in Broth
Next, add the diced potatoes directly into the pot along with the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 12 to 15 minutes. This simmering stage allows the potatoes to soak up the savory broth, softening perfectly without losing their structure.
Step 3: Add Milk, Cheese, and Herbs
Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the milk or cream along with the shredded cheddar cheese and your choice of either thyme or rosemary. Gently stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth. For an extra creamy texture, blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender, leaving some potato chunks intact for delightful texture contrast.
Step 4: Season and Serve Warm
Finally, taste your soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the soup warm for maximum comfort, letting those rustic, cheesy, garlicky flavors shine.
How to Serve Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes is a simple way to elevate your soup experience. Crumbled crispy bacon or finely chopped chives add amazing texture and bursts of flavor that complement the creamy base. A sprinkle of extra sharp cheddar on top is always welcome for that extra cheesy punch.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or buttery garlic rolls to help you soak up every last drop. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also offer a crisp contrast while keeping the meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic presentation. You can also garnish with a swirl of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for added flavor complexity and visual appeal. These little touches will impress your guests and keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it in an airtight container to preserve those fresh, comforting flavors.
Freezing
This soup also freezes well! Just cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. If it thickens too much, simply add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it back up to creamy perfection.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you’ll still have all that hearty, comforting flavor with a vegetarian-friendly twist.
Can I use different types of cheese?
While cheddar is ideal for its sharp, melty quality, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack or even a smoky gouda to add new layers of flavor.
What if I want a thicker soup?
For a thicker consistency, mash some of the potatoes completely before adding the milk and cheese, or blend a larger portion of the soup until desired thickness is reached.
Is it okay to use sweet potatoes?
Yes! Substituting sweet potatoes adds a subtle sweetness and a lovely orange hue that’s deliciously unique but still fits perfectly with the garlic and herb notes.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
You can! Just add all the ingredients except dairy and cheese to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. Add milk and cheese near the end and stir until melted and creamy.
Final Thoughts
This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe has everything you want from a classic comfort food—creamy texture, bold cheesy flavor, and that cozy feeling that makes you want to curl up with a bowl and a good book. I encourage you to try it soon; it’s not just a soup, it’s a warm hug disguised as dinner. Happy cooking!
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Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A hearty, cheesy potato soup infused with garlic and fresh herbs — cozy comfort in a bowl. This creamy, flavorful soup combines tender potatoes with sharp cheddar and aromatic herbs for the perfect satisfying meal on chilly days.
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp thyme or rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Simmer Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 12 to 15 minutes.
- Add Dairy and Cheese: Stir in the milk or cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and herbs (thyme or rosemary). Cook gently, allowing the cheese to melt fully.
- Blend for Creaminess: Using an immersion blender, partially blend the soup to create a creamy texture while leaving some potato chunks for body.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the soup warm, optionally garnishing with crispy bacon or chives.
Notes
- Top with crispy bacon or chives for extra flavor.
- Substitute sweet potatoes for a unique twist.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
