Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
There’s something deeply comforting about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly evening. When the first cold winds of autumn begin to whisper at my windows, it’s not just the changing leaves that tug at my heartstrings, but the tantalizing scent of my Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe simmering on the stove. I remember my grandmother stirring her pot on the old gas stove, her laughter bubbling up just like the broth. Each spoonful of her rich, creamy soup brought us closer together, and I often felt the warmth wrap around me, a cozy hug that chased away the autumn chill.
Why Make This Recipe
You might be wondering, what makes this potato soup so special? Here are a few reasons to whip up your own pot today:
- Comforting Flavors: The earthy potatoes, sharp cheddar, and fragrant herbs blend beautifully, creating a symphony of flavor that warms your heart.
- Quick Prep: In just about 15 minutes, you can have the ingredients ready to go—the perfect simple dinner for busy weeknights.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a family dinner or a holiday gathering, everyone loves a hearty soup.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand—feel free to swap in different cheeses or herbs based on your pantry.
- Festive Cooking: Perfect for cozy gatherings, especially when paired with crusty bread!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious dish to life:
- 4 large russet potatoes – The stars of the show; they’ll become tender and creamy.
- 1 medium onion, diced – Adds a sweet base note that enhances the overall flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – The aromatic touch that brings depth and richness.
- 3 cups vegetable broth – Use homemade if you have it for an extra boost of flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream – For that luscious, creamy texture; substitute half and half for a lighter version.
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded – The soul of the soup! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Or use fresh if you have it!
- Salt and pepper – To taste; don’t skip on seasoning!
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – A pop of color and freshness to brighten every bowl.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
This recipe is a delightful weeknight meal that combines the pleasure of cooking with the joy of eating. It’s well worth the time, as every simmering moment builds that exquisite flavor!
How to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, melt a tablespoon of butter (or olive oil) and add your diced onion. Sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, stirring until fragrant (around 1 minute)—your kitchen will begin to smell heavenly!
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Add the Potatoes: Toss in the cubed potatoes and stir to coat with the onion and garlic mixture. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing those flavors to mingle.
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Pour in the Broth: Add the vegetable broth to the pot, bringing everything to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork.
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Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender (or carefully transferring to a traditional blender), blend the soup until creamy but still chunky. If it’s too thick, add a little more broth to reach your desired consistency.
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Stir in the Goodness: Return the blended soup to the pot over low heat. Add the heavy cream, shredded cheddar, dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Stir well until the cheese has fully melted, creating a creamy, cheesy delight.
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Serve and Garnish: Ladle your luscious soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley for a touch of freshness. If you have any leftover cheese, sprinkle it on top!
Tips and Creative Variations
- Add crumbled bacon or crispy shallots on top for an extra crunch.
- Swap the potatoes for cauliflower for a lighter version that’s equally satisfying.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions.
- Incorporate leafy greens like spinach or kale just before the soup is done for added nutrition and color.
Serving Ideas
Pair your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe with warm, crusty bread or homemade biscuits for a complete meal. A light side salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette perfectly compliments the richness of the soup. And for those cozy evenings, why not enjoy it with a glass of white wine or a cup of hot apple cider?
Storing and Reheating
Store your soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, either on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back its lovely creaminess.
Pro Tips for Success
- Always taste as you go—everyone’s palate is different, and you may want more seasoning!
- If you’re short on time, use pre-diced potatoes and pre-minced garlic to speed up prep.
- For extra flavor, roast the garlic before adding it to the pot; you’ll be amazed at the difference.
- Save some cheese to sprinkle on top just before serving for that extra gooeyness.
FAQs
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Can I freeze this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to let it cool before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. -
What’s the best substitute for heavy cream?
Half and half or a plant-based cream can work, but the texture might vary slightly. -
Can I use different types of potatoes?
You can! Gold or red potatoes are excellent choices for a creamier texture. -
How can I make this soup thicker?
Blend a portion of the soup fully, then stir it back in to thicken it up. -
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just ensure your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
As you gather around the table with a warm bowl of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, take a moment to savor not just the meal but the memories it brings. This recipe is more than just ingredients—it’s a blend of love, laughter, and the joy of sharing food with those we cherish. So gather your loved ones, share this recipe, and create new memories together. Happy cooking!
Contents
Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes The stars of the show; they’ll become tender and creamy.
- 1 medium onion, diced Adds a sweet base note that enhances the overall flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced The aromatic touch that brings depth and richness.
- 3 cups vegetable broth Use homemade if possible for an extra boost of flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream For a luscious, creamy texture; substitute half and half for a lighter version.
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded Feel free to experiment with other cheeses.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme Or use fresh thyme if you have it!
- to taste Salt and pepper Season to taste.
- for garnish Fresh parsley, chopped A pop of color and freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt a tablespoon of butter (or olive oil) and add your diced onion. Sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, stirring until fragrant (around 1 minute).
- Toss in the cubed potatoes and stir to coat with the onion and garlic mixture. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the vegetable broth to the pot, bringing everything to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until creamy but still chunky. If it’s too thick, add more broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Return the blended soup to the pot over low heat. Add the heavy cream, shredded cheddar, and dried thyme. Stir well until the cheese has fully melted.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley.
Notes
Written by khadija — founder of Dailypan, sharing easy, cozy homemade recipes for every occasion.