What could be more comforting on a blustery day than a bowl of Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup? This rich, creamy soup is packed with tender chunks of potato, the rich flavor of cheddar cheese, and the aromatic allure of garlic and herbs. Not only does it cater to every palate, but it also warms the soul, providing that much-needed comfort we all crave during colder months. Plus, with a total time of just 35 minutes, it’s a perfect option for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction.
The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity and the harmony of its ingredients. The sharpness of cheddar cheese beautifully balances the mellow warmth of potatoes, while herbs and garlic add layers of flavor that elevate this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. It’s also versatile: you can make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth, which makes it an inclusive dish, perfect for nearly any diet. Whether it’s the soulful, rich flavor, the cheesy goodness, or the aromatic herbs, there’s something in this soup for everyone to love. Whether you’re serving it at the family table or enjoying it solo, this soup promises a delightful culinary experience.
Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Here’s why this soup will become your go-to recipe:
- Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights.
- Rich and creamy: A luxurious texture and taste that feels indulgent.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable with ingredients you have on hand.
- Flavorful: Cheddar, garlic, and herbs offer a winning taste combination.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: Use vegetable broth for a plant-based version.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this sumptuous recipe, preparing your kitchen workspace and gathering all necessary utensils are key. The heart of this preparation begins with ensuring your space is clean and ready. A clean kitchen is always the best starting point for cooking success. Ensure you have a large pot ready — this will be essential for concocting your soup masterpiece. You might want to have an immersion blender on hand, as it makes blending the soup to your desired texture a breeze without extra dishes. Alternatively, a regular blender will work, but just be cautious when transferring hot liquids. A cutting board, a sharp knife, and measuring spoons are necessary to prepare your ingredients with precision.
Efficient preparation of ingredients is crucial. Dice your onions and potatoes uniformly for even cooking. Dicing not only speeds up cooking time but also ensures consistent texture and flavor distribution throughout your soup. Lastly, have your herbs and spices measured and ready to go. This mise en place method— French for “everything in its place”— helps streamline the cooking process.
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
In a large pot, begin by heating the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook them until they become translucent, taking about 4 to 5 minutes. This will soften their sharpness, letting them transform into a sweet aromatic base for your soup.
Step 2: Introduce the Flavors
Stir in the minced garlic along with thyme, rosemary, and smoked paprika. Cook this mixture for roughly one minute. This short cooking time releases all those amazing flavors, marrying them together and filling your kitchen with a tantalizing aroma.
Step 3: Simmer the Potatoes
Add your diced potatoes into the pot followed by the broth. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it bubble away gently for 15 to 20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork.
Step 4: Blend and Thicken
Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, enabling you to control the texture, keeping some potato chunks intact. If you wish for a smoother soup, you can transfer half of the soup to a blender, then return it to the pot.
Step 5: Enrich with Dairy and Cheese
Gently stir in the milk, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar. Keep the heat on low to allow these ingredients to meld together, creating a beautifully creamy soup. Stir continuously until the cheddar is fully melted and all the components come together in creamy harmony.
Final Touches: Season and Serve
Taste, then season the soup with salt and black pepper according to your preference. Garnish each bowl with chopped fresh parsley to add a vibrant color contrast. Serve the soup warm, ready to nourish and comfort anyone who digs in.
Variations
- Protein: For an extra protein boost, add crumbled bacon or diced ham before serving.
- Vegetables: Toss in some diced carrots or celery with the onions for added texture and nutrition.
- Spices: If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure your soup maintains a gentle simmer after adding the potatoes to prevent them from falling apart.
- Blending part of the soup helps thicken it without needing additional flour or cornstarch, keeping it gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
- This soup pairs beautifully with a fresh, crusty baguette or warm dinner rolls for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside a simple green salad to provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
Tips
- For the best flavor, use a high-quality sharp cheddar cheese and grate it yourself. Pre-shredded cheese can contain additives that affect melting.
- If the soup becomes too thick, thin it with an extra splash of broth or milk until you reach the preferred consistency.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: About 15g per serving
- Sodium: Varies based on broth used; adjust for dietary needs
FAQs
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup. Allow it to cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally.
What type of potatoes works best?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture. However, feel free to use any potatoes you have on hand.
Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the milk and cream with coconut milk, and opt for a plant-based cheddar to keep it dairy-free while still creamy.
How can I make it thicker?
If you prefer an even thicker texture, mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to form a slurry, and stir it into the simmering soup.
Conclusion
This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Its harmonious blend of flavors, comforting warmth, and sumptuous texture make it perfect for any occasion. Whether shared with loved ones or savored solo, it promises to be a dish you’ll return to time and again. Be sure to explore the variations and find your unique twist on this classic recipe. We invite you to share your creation with friends and encourage them to join in the cozy comfort this soup provides. Don’t forget to leave your thoughts and any creative variants in the comments below!
Print
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This rich, creamy soup is packed with tender chunks of potato, the rich flavor of cheddar cheese, and the aromatic allure of garlic and herbs.
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon dried herbs (like thyme or rosemary)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.
- Add the diced potatoes and vegetable broth; bring to a boil and simmer until potatoes are tender.
- Blend the mixture until smooth, then return to heat.
- Stir in the cheese and milk, seasoning with herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Cook until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
Notes
For added flavor, consider garnishing with fresh herbs or additional cheese when serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
Nutrition
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 12 g