Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
There’s something magical about the way a kitchen fills with the warm aroma of savory garlic mingling with creamy cheddar cheese. It’s a love letter to the senses, a gentle nudge to come in, sit down, and embrace the comfort of home. Imagine, for a moment, gathering around the table with close family and friends with steaming bowls of thick, delicious potato soup in front of you. That’s the essence of this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe—a simple dinner that transforms into a cozy celebration of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
Each spoonful of this soup tells a story—one of warmth, comfort, and togetherness. Here’s why making this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is an excellent choice for your next meal:
- Quick Prep: Just 15 minutes to chop and sauté—because we all deserve more time to enjoy life outside the kitchen!
- Cozy Flavors: A delightful blend of garlic, cheese, and herbs will have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds).
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings; it’s a dish that even picky eaters will love!
- Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have—make it vegan, gluten-free, or more indulgent with extra cheese as you please!
- Comforting Recipe: Perfect for chilly nights or when you need a hug in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 large russet potatoes: These are the stars of the show—creamy and starchy, giving the soup its heartiness.
- 1 medium onion: For a rich, sweet base. Make sure to chop it finely for the best texture.
- 4 cloves garlic: Freshly minced, because garlic is life!
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth: The flavorful backdrop that ties everything together. Go low-sodium if you prefer!
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: For a delightful creamy richness; adjust to your cheesy preferences.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds velvety texture but can be swapped for half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter touch.
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, or parsley): Chopped and ready to infuse your soup with flavor.
- Salt and pepper: To taste; season generously to bring out all the delicious flavors.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting. The rewarding flavors are definitely worth the little time you put in!
How to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
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Prepare the Vegetables: Peel and dice the potatoes into uniform cubes for even cooking. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic, releasing their vibrant aromas into the air.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat up a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent—about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic, stirring for another minute until fragrant; your kitchen will start to feel like home.
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Cook the Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the pot, followed by the broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, around 15-20 minutes.
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Mash the Potatoes: Once cooked, use a potato masher to partially crush the potatoes. You want to leave some chunks for texture while still making the soup creamy.
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Stir in the Cream and Cheese: Lower the heat and incorporate the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the soup becomes lusciously creamy.
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Season and Add Herbs: Stir in the fresh herbs, and season to taste with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes for the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Serve Hot: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with a sprinkle of extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy!
Tips and Creative Variations
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne for a hint of heat or some paprika for a smoky twist.
- Herb Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like dill or chives; each adds a unique flavor profile!
- Protein Boost: Stir in some cooked bacon or shredded rotisserie chicken for added protein.
- Vegan Version: Replace the cream with coconut milk and omit the cheese, or use a plant-based substitute.
Serving Ideas
Pair this hearty soup with crusty bread or a crisp green salad for a lovely balanced meal. Picture a family gathering around a warm table, laughter and stories flowing just as freely as the creamy potato soup. Try serving it on a cozy rainy day or a festive dinner party—it’s sure to be a hit!
Storing and Reheating
- Storing: Let the soup cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers. It can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: This soup freezes beautifully! Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some space at the top, as it will expand.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to thin it out if it thickens too much.
Pro Tips for Success
- Quality Cheese: Use real sharp cheddar for the best flavor; pre-shredded cheese may contain anti-caking agents that can dull the creamy texture.
- Fresh Herbs Vs. Dried: If using dried herbs, reduce the quantity by about one-third, as they are more concentrated in flavor.
- Taste as You Go: Don’t be afraid to adjust seasonings throughout cooking; personal preferences can elevate your dish.
FAQs
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Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes! This soup freezes well and can be stored for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. -
What’s the best substitute for heavy cream?
Greek yogurt or half-and-half can be great lighter substitutes, providing creaminess without the calorie load. -
Can I add vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! Carrots, celery, or spinach can enhance both the flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that warms the soul and brings people together. Each bowl is filled with memories waiting to be made—whether it’s a chilly evening at home or a hearty starter at a festive gathering. I invite you to make it, share it, and savor every spoonful with loved ones. Happy cooking!
Contents
Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes Creamy and starchy, giving the soup its heartiness.
- 1 medium onion Chopped finely for the best texture.
- 4 cloves garlic Freshly minced.
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth Use low-sodium if preferred.
Creamy Components
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese Adjust to preference for cheesiness.
- 1 cup heavy cream Can be substituted with half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
Seasoning and Herbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs Thyme, rosemary, or parsley, chopped.
- Salt and pepper To taste.
Instructions
Preparation
- Peel and dice the potatoes into uniform cubes for even cooking.
- Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
Cooking
- In a large pot, heat up a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent—about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, stirring for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot, followed by the broth. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer until potatoes are tender, around 15-20 minutes.
- Use a potato masher to partially crush the potatoes, leaving some chunks for texture.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until cheese melts and the soup is creamy.
- Stir in the fresh herbs, and season to taste with salt and pepper. Let simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Written by khadija — founder of Dailypan, sharing easy, cozy homemade recipes for every occasion.
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