This rich and creamy potato soup is a comforting classic that warms the heart and fills the belly. With its cheesy goodness and aromatic herbs, this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is perfect for chilly days or when you need a quick and satisfying meal. It’s easy to make and uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. This soup is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to add your own twist with different spices or toppings. Get ready to enjoy a bowl of hearty goodness that will become a staple in your recipe collection.
Why Make This Recipe
This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is a dish that everyone can enjoy. The combination of creamy potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and fragrant garlic creates a delicious flavor that warms you from the inside out. Making this soup is also a great way to use up leftover potatoes, making it a cost-effective meal option. It’s an easy recipe that doesn’t require any special cooking skills, so even beginner cooks will have no trouble following the steps. Beyond its delightful taste, this soup is customizable. You can switch up the herbs, add vegetables, or even adjust the amount of cheese based on your preferences.
This soup also brings a sense of comfort during cold days or when you’re feeling under the weather. Not only is it hearty, but it can also be a complete meal if you add protein like cooked chicken or beans. The quick preparation time means you can whip it up for a weeknight dinner or make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week. Eating a bowl of this soup will not only please your taste buds but also warm your soul.
How to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
To make this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, start by gathering your ingredients. You will need potatoes, garlic, onion, vegetable or chicken broth, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese. Begin by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small pieces. Next, chop the onion and garlic. In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion and garlic until they are soft and fragrant. Then, add the diced potatoes and broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer until the potatoes are tender, which usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. After the potatoes are cooked, use a potato masher or immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency. For a creamy texture, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese is melted and all ingredients are well combined. Season with salt, pepper, and any herbs you prefer, such as thyme or parsley. Give it a final stir, and your soup is ready to serve!
How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Serving your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is easy and can be varied to suit your taste. A simple option is to ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese for added flavor. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs, like chives or parsley, on top for a colorful presentation.
For an extra comforting touch, consider serving the soup with crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches on the side. This combination makes for a satisfying meal sure to delight your family. Another idea is to offer toppings such as croutons, crispy bacon, or sour cream so that everyone can customize their bowl. The soup pairs well with a crisp green salad for a well-rounded dinner. Enjoy it warm and savor each spoonful!
How to Store Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Storing Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is straightforward. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it instead. To freeze, pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Make sure to leave some space at the top since the soup will expand when frozen.
When you’re ready to enjoy the soup again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. You can reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s hot throughout. If the soup becomes too thick after freezing, you can add a little extra broth or cream during reheating to restore its creamy consistency.
Tips to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, here are some handy tips. First, choose starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds, as they break down nicely and create a creamy texture. When sautéing the onions and garlic, avoid browning them too much to ensure a mild flavor in the soup.
Use freshly grated cheddar cheese rather than pre-shredded cheese, as it melts better and gives a creamier result. You can also add more garlic if you love a strong garlic flavor. If the soup seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add extra broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Lastly, feel free to experiment with additional seasonings like paprika, rosemary, or even a splash of hot sauce for a little kick to warm you up!
Variation
You can easily modify this recipe to suit your taste. For a different flavor profile, try adding vegetables like carrots, celery, or broccoli to the soup. If you enjoy a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper. For a healthier twist, opt for low-fat milk instead of cream, or use non-dairy milk for a vegan version. You can also play around with different types of cheese, such as gouda or mozzarella, to switch things up.
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative, and use a dairy-free cheese for added flavor.
2. How can I thicken the soup?
If you want a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the potatoes in the soup or add a cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with water) while simmering.
3. What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or sandwiches. Grilled cheese is a classic choice!
4. How long can I freeze the soup?
You can freeze the soup for up to three months. Make sure to store it in airtight containers to prevent freezer burn.
5. Can I use leftover baked potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover baked potatoes can add extra depth and flavor to your soup. Just dice them and mix them in when you start to simmer the broth.
Print
Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This rich and creamy potato soup is a comforting classic that warms the heart and fills the belly, featuring cheesy goodness and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (thyme, parsley, or chives) for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant.
- Add the diced potatoes and broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Use a potato masher or immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency.
- Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
- Season with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs you prefer before serving.
Notes
For a different twist, try adding other vegetables or switching up the cheese type. Leftover baked potatoes work well in this recipe too.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: potato soup, cheddar soup, garlic soup, comfort food
