Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Indulge in the warmth and comfort of a steaming bowl of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. This delicious soup combines rich flavors, creamy textures, and the perfect blend of herbs, making it ideal for cozy dinners or gatherings with friends and family. With Yukon Gold potatoes, savory garlic, and sharp cheddar cheese, this soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience that will satisfy your cravings and warm your soul.

Why You’ll Love This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

This soup brings together flavor and comfort in every spoonful.

• Creamy Texture – The smooth combination of cheese and cream creates an irresistible richness.
• Fresh Herbs – Infusing fresh parsley, chives, and thyme elevates the flavor profile.
• Quick Prep – With simple ingredients and easy steps, making this soup is a breeze.
• Versatile Toppings – Customize each bowl with toppings like bacon, croutons, or sour cream to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with loved ones, this soup fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Blender or immersion blender

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven – Perfect for simmering the soup evenly without burning.
• Chef’s knife – Ensures precise chopping of vegetables for consistent cooking.
• Blender – Helps achieve the creamy texture by blending part of the soup smoothly.

Ingredients

Indulge in a creamy and comforting bowl of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, featuring tender Yukon Gold potatoes, aromatic garlic, and sharp cheddar cheese, all enriched with fresh herbs for a delightful flavor experience!

For the Potatoes

• Potatoes: 2.5 lbs (about 1.1 kg) Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed into ½-inch pieces (about 6-7 medium potatoes)

For Fat

• Fat: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter OR 3 tablespoons olive oil + 1 tablespoon butter

For Aromatics

• Aromatics:
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1.5 cups)
• 5-6 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons)

For Flour

• Flour: 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (helps thicken the soup)

For Liquid Base

• Liquid Base:
• 4 cups (32 fl oz / 950 ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups (16 fl oz / 475 ml) whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
• 1/2 cup (4 fl oz / 120 ml) heavy cream (optional, but recommended for ultimate creaminess)

For Cheese

• Cheese: 2 cups (about 8 oz / 225g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded (avoid pre-shredded for better melting)

For Herbs

• Herbs:
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)

For Seasoning

• Seasoning:
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground (or to taste)
• Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (optional, for a hint of warmth)

Optional Garnish

• Cooked crumbled bacon
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• More fresh chives or parsley
• Croutons

Pin

How to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Potatoes

Peel your Yukon Gold potatoes and chop them into uniform cubes. Rinse under cold water to remove excess starch which helps prevent gumminess in the soup. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Place a large pot over medium heat. Add butter or the olive oil/butter mix. Once melted and shimmering:
1. Add finely chopped yellow onion.
2. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring until softened but not browned.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add minced garlic to the pot:
1. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until fragrant.
Be cautious not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.

Step 4: Create a Roux

Sprinkle all-purpose flour over onions and garlic:
1. Stir continuously while cooking for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.
This forms a roux that thickens your soup.

Step 5: Incorporate Broth

Gradually whisk in chicken or vegetable broth:
1. Scrape bottom to loosen any flavorful bits.
2. Whisk until smooth before bringing it to a simmer.

Step 6: Add Potatoes

Stir in rinsed potato cubes:
1. Bring mixture back to simmer then reduce heat to medium-low.
2. Cover pot and cook for 15-20 minutes, until potatoes are tender.

Step 7: Blend Halfway

To achieve creamy texture while retaining some potato chunks:
1. Carefully ladle half of the soup into a blender.
2. Blend until smooth then return it back into the pot with remaining chunky soup.

Step 8: Add Dairy

Reduce heat to low:
1. Slowly pour in whole milk (or half-and-half) along with heavy cream if using.
2. Stir well while adding fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme.

Step 9: Melt Cheese Off Heat

Remove from heat completely:
Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese:
1. Stir continuously until fully melted before adding more.

Step10: Season Your Soup

Taste your hearty creation:
Add salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper/smoked paprika as desired.

Step11: Serve Hot

Ladle hot creamy soup into bowls:
Garnish generously with toppings like crumbled bacon or extra cheese! Enjoy immediately!

How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Serving Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is all about enhancing its comforting flavors and textures. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this creamy soup, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.

Garnish Ideas

• Crumble Bacon: Add crispy crumbled bacon on top for a savory crunch that complements the creaminess.
• Extra Cheese: Sprinkle more shredded cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy experience that melts into the soup.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the soup.
• Fresh Herbs: Top with additional fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and fresh flavor.

Crusty Bread Pairings

• French Baguette: Serve with slices of toasted French baguette, perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: The robust flavor of garlic bread complements the soup wonderfully and adds another layer of flavor.

Salad Suggestions

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette can refresh your palate between bites of hearty soup.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a crunchy texture and rich taste that pairs well with the creamy soup.

---

How to Perfect Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Perfecting your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup involves a few simple techniques to elevate its flavor and texture. Follow these tips to ensure every bowl is a delight.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh herbs and high-quality cheese for the best flavor in your soup.
• Blend Carefully: When blending part of the soup, ensure you allow steam to escape from the blender to avoid splatters and burns.
• Adjust Seasonings Gradually: Taste as you go, adding salt and pepper slowly to avoid overwhelming the dish, especially since cheese can add saltiness.
• Thicken Wisely: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend more potato chunks into a smooth base rather than adding additional flour or starch.

Pin

Best Side Dishes for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens provides a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
2. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft garlic breadsticks complement the creamy texture and add an aromatic touch.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables enhance nutritional value while offering a variety of flavors and textures.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms make for an elegant side that pairs beautifully with hearty soup.
5. Cheesy Quesadillas: Crispy quesadillas filled with cheese add additional comfort and are fun for dipping into the soup.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a deliciously sweet contrast to the savory soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will enhance your cooking experience. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the starch rinse: Not rinsing the cubed potatoes can lead to a gummy texture in the soup. Always rinse them under cold water before adding them to the pot.
• Burning the garlic: Garlic can quickly turn bitter if overcooked. Add it just after the onions have softened and sauté it for only 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Using pre-shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. For the best results, shred your cheddar cheese fresh from the block.
• Not tasting as you go: Seasoning is crucial for flavor. Taste your soup throughout the cooking process and adjust salt, pepper, and spices as needed.
• Forgetting to vent when blending: Blending hot liquids can be dangerous. Always allow steam to escape by removing the center cap of the blender lid and covering it with a towel.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow soup to cool before sealing containers.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze in portion-sized containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in containers for expansion as soup freezes.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over low heat in a pot, stirring often to prevent sticking.

Pin

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup so creamy?

The combination of whole milk or half-and-half with heavy cream adds a rich texture, while freshly shredded cheddar cheese brings flavor and creaminess.

Can I customize my Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots or celery, use different herbs, or even incorporate proteins such as cooked bacon or chicken for added heartiness.

How long does Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in airtight containers, this soup lasts for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup vegan?

Yes! Substitute butter with olive oil, use vegetable broth, and replace dairy with plant-based milk and cheese alternatives.

What should I serve with Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?

This comforting soup pairs well with crusty bread, salads, or sandwiches for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is not just comforting; it’s also versatile and customizable! Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a gathering, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different toppings or additional ingredients to make this recipe your own!