This creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day! Thick potatoes, rich cheese, and fragrant herbs come together for a tasty treat.
Whenever I make this soup, the garlic smell fills my kitchen and makes my mouth water. It’s perfect with crusty bread for dipping—talk about comfort food! 🥖😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Use Russett or Yukon Gold potatoes for the best creaminess. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute with cauliflower florets for a low-carb version.
Broth: Chicken broth adds depth, but vegetable broth is a great swap for a vegetarian soup. Homemade broth is even better for flavor!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the soup a rich flavor. You can also use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or a mild cheddar for a different taste.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter soup, half-and-half or whole milk works well. Coconut milk can be an alternative for dairy-free options.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like chives or thyme are delightful in this soup. If you don’t have dried herbs, you can use fresh herbs—just double the amount!
How Do You Blend the Soup for the Perfect Texture?
The blending step is crucial for the right texture. You want a creamy base with some potato chunks for heartiness. Here’s how to nail it:
- Use an immersion blender—it’s easy and clean. Blend partially so some chunks remain.
- If using a traditional blender, let the soup cool briefly before blending. Blend in batches, and return it to the pot cautiously.
Blend until you reach your desired texture. Just remember, a little chunkiness makes the soup feel hearty and comforting!
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes (about 4 medium)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
For the Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (parsley or dill), for garnish
- Optional: Crusty bread slices, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until it’s fragrant. This will make your kitchen smell wonderful!
2. Cook the Potatoes:
Add the diced potatoes and the chicken broth to the pot. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. You can test this by piercing a potato with a fork—it should be easy to break apart.
3. Blend the Soup:
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup to achieve a creamy texture while still leaving some chunks of potato for heartiness. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can ladle half the soup into a traditional blender, blend until smooth, and then return it to the pot. Just be cautious not to fill the blender too full with hot soup!
4. Add the Cream and Cheese:
Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, dried parsley, thyme, and dill (if using). Allow the soup to gently heat over low heat, stirring frequently until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with fresh herbs and an extra sprinkle of cheddar cheese on top. Don’t forget to enjoy it with warm crusty bread or garlic toast on the side—it’s the perfect combination for a comforting meal!
This soup looks rich, creamy, and inviting, with visible specks of herbs and cheese throughout. The golden color and fresh herbs on top add a lovely touch to this cozy dish. Happy eating!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! Russett or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture. If you want a lower-carb option, you can even use cauliflower for a delicious twist.
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and you’re good to go! This keeps all the delicious flavors without the meat.
What If the Soup is Too Thick?
If your soup turns out thicker than you’d like, simply add a splash of broth or water while reheating until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir well to combine!
