Name: Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp dried rosemary; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 4 cups diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet); 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

When the weather demands a comforting and cozy meal, few things can rival the soul-warming deliciousness of Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. This dish is the perfect blend of creamy textures and vibrant flavors. Made with hearty potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and a fragrant mix of garlic and herbs, this soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. The rich aroma that fills the air as it simmers is just a sneak peek of the flavor explosion to come. What’s more, you can have it all ready in just 30 minutes, making it the ideal choice for busy evenings when you’re craving something homemade and heartwarming.

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a well-crafted bowl of potato soup. The smooth, creamy base, punctuated by tender potato chunks, offers a delightful texture that begs to be savored slowly. But the true magic lies in how accessible this recipe is; you don’t need special ingredients or skills to unlock its full potential. With basic pantry staples and a few fresh additions, this is comfort food at its finest.

Perfect for any occasion, this Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup also appeals to diverse dietary preferences, accommodating vegetarian diets while remaining indulgently creamy. The inclusion of both chicken and vegetable broth options ensures flexibility whether you’re serving vegetarians or meat-lovers. So, why not treat yourself and your loved ones to the kind of meal that delights the senses and warms from the inside out?

Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for weeknight dinners.
Rich and Creamy: The combination of sharp cheddar and creamy base is irresistible.
Flavorful: Aromatic garlic and herbs enhance every spoonful.
Versatile: Can be made with chicken or vegetable broth to suit different tastes.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into cooking, it’s crucial to set up your kitchen for success. Start by gathering all necessary ingredients and tools. For this recipe, a large pot is essential to accommodate all ingredients while allowing you to blend the soup later. An immersion blender is ideal for partially blending the soup to achieve the desired texture. If unavailable, a regular blender can work—you’ll just need to return the blended portion to the pot after processing.

Your workstation should have easy access to your chopping board and knife as you’ll need to dice onions and potatoes swiftly. A good sharp knife is essential for smooth, even slices. Measuring spoons will ensure you get precise quantities of herbs and spices, which can make a big difference in flavor. Finally, have a ladle on hand for serving and stirring during the cooking process. Now your kitchen is prepared, and you’re ready to cook.

Ingredients

2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried rosemary
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
4 cups diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the diced onion. Cook the onion, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent, which should take about 4–5 minutes. This process helps release the sweetness of the onion and forms the flavor base for the soup.

Step 2: Add the Seasoning

Next, add the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and smoked paprika to the pot. Stir the mixture continuously for about a minute. This short cooking time is crucial as it aids in releasing the essential oils from the spices and infusing the dish with a deep, robust flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

Introduce the diced potatoes to the pot along with either chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once it starts bubbling, lower the heat and allow it to simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. The goal is to cook the potatoes until they’re fork-tender, adding a pleasant bite to the soup.

Step 4: Blend for Texture

After the potatoes are cooked, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup directly in the pot. Aim to leave some potato chunks for texture. If you prefer a smoother consistency, blend a bit more of the mixture. Alternatively, transfer half of the soup to a regular blender, then return it to the pot once blended.

Step 5: Final Touches

Finally, stir in the whole milk, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Keep the heat low to avoid curdling as you mix until the cheese is completely melted and the soup becomes creamy. Taste and season with salt and black pepper to your liking. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley just before serving warm.

Variations

Protein: Add cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham for extra protein.
Vegetables: Stir in spinach or kale for added nutrients and color.
Spices: Consider cumin or cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.

Cooking Notes

Ensure you dice the potatoes evenly to guarantee consistent cooking.
Using sharp cheddar is recommended for a strong cheese flavor.
For a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth slightly.
Adjust seasoning based on your family’s preference.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with crusty bread for dipping to complement the creamy texture.
Serve with a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Tips

Prepare all ingredients before you start cooking to streamline the process.
To make the soup thicker, you can mash some of the potatoes instead of blending.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approx. 400 per serving
Protein: 16g per serving
Sodium: 850mg per serving (varies with broth choice)

FAQs

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup, but it’s best to do so before adding the dairy. Reheat gently on the stovetop and add milk and cream once thawed.

What if I don’t have an immersion blender?

No worries! A regular blender works, just blend partially and return to pot.

Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth, plant-based milk, and cheese substitutes.

How do I prevent the soup from curdling?

Ensure to keep the heat low after adding cheese and dairy; avoid boiling.

Conclusion

This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s an opportunity to bring warmth and joy to your table. The perfect combination of creamy cheese and herbs spices up a classic favorite, while its simplicity and speed make it accessible for any home cook. We hope you enjoy this comforting delight as much as we do. Feel free to share your thoughts, tweaks, or serving suggestions in the comments. Try different variations to make it your own and savor the satisfaction of a truly comforting meal.