As the chilly days of fall set in, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a hearty soup simmering on the stove. Last week, after returning from a brisk walk where I couldn’t help but admire the colorful leaves falling around me, I decided to whip up a batch of Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. The moment I started sautéing garlic and onions, the intoxicating aroma filled my kitchen, wrapping me in a comforting embrace.
Using creamy Yukon Gold potatoes and sharp cheddar cheese, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into an indulgent treat that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—dress it up with crispy bacon or keep it vegetarian with fresh herbs. Whether you’re looking to impress at a gathering or simply want to enjoy a cozy night in, this soup is sure to please. Join me in making the ultimate comfort food that takes just a bit of time yet delivers tons of flavor and nostalgia!
Why is Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting warmth: This soup is the perfect antidote to chilly days, offering soothing richness that envelops you in cozy goodness.
Flavor explosion: A mouthwatering blend of sharp cheddar, garlic, and fresh herbs elevates every spoonful, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Easy preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can enjoy homemade perfection without feeling overwhelmed.
Versatility shines: Dress it up or down with various toppings like crispy bacon or fresh chives, ensuring it suits any palate.
Nostalgic indulgence: Each bowl serves as a delightful reminder of heartwarming family meals, perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in.
Treat yourself to a soul-warming experience by preparing this delicious soup today!
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Ingredients
Transform your meal with this indulgent soup!
For the Soup Base
• Yukon Gold potatoes – ideal for that creamy texture that makes every bite comforting.
• Unsalted butter or butter and olive oil mix – for a rich and balanced flavor.
• Yellow onion – finely chopped to add sweetness and depth to the soup.
• Garlic cloves – minced for that aromatic kick that elevates the entire dish.
• All-purpose flour – acts as a thickening agent to create a luscious consistency.
• Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth – choose vegetable for a vegetarian option while enhancing the flavor.
For Creaminess
• Whole milk – adds creaminess and richness that’s simply irresistible.
• Heavy cream (optional) – for those moments when you want to elevate the indulgence even further.
For Flavor and Toppings
• Freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese – brings in that essential cheesy goodness to this Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup.
• Fresh herbs: parsley, chives, and thyme – a sprinkle of these will brighten up the soup with lovely freshness.
• Salt – enhances all the flavors, making them pop.
• Black pepper – adds a subtle warmth that balances the dish.
• Pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika – for just the right touch of heat or smokiness, depending on your mood.
Optional Toppings
• Crispy bacon – a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy soup.
• Extra cheddar – for those extra cheesy nights when one layer just isn’t enough!
• Sour cream – adds a tangy contrast to the rich soup.
• Croutons – a crunchy addition for texture and flavor.
• Chopped chives – a fresh garnish that brings color and taste to your bowl.
How to Make Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
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Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and chop the Yukon Gold potatoes into small pieces, ensuring even cooking and a creamy texture. Set them aside while you sauté the other ingredients.
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Heat the Pot: In a large pot, heat unsalted butter or a mix of butter and olive oil over medium heat. Wait until the butter is melted and bubbly, creating a lovely base for your soup.
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Sauté the Onion: Add the chopped yellow onion and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes. This will infuse your soup with sweet and savory flavors.
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Incorporate the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. The aroma will be heavenly, setting the stage for your delicious soup.
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Make the Roux: Add the flour and stir to create a light roux, cooking for a couple of minutes. This step thickens your soup and adds depth to the flavor.
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Add the Broth: Gradually add the broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Keep mixing until the mixture is smooth and combined.
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Cook the Potatoes: Add the potatoes to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
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Blend Until Smooth: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. If you love it creamy, blend until smooth; for a chunkier texture, blend less.
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Stir in Dairy: Add the whole milk and heavy cream (if using) and heat through, being careful not to boil, as this will keep it creamy.
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Add Cheese and Herbs: Stir in the freshly shredded cheddar cheese and herbs, seasoning with salt, black pepper, cayenne, or paprika to taste. The cheese will melt into the soup, enriching it further.
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Serve Hot: Serve your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup hot and enjoy it with optional toppings like crispy bacon or extra cheddar for that extra hit of flavor!
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for a wonderful pop of flavor and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to play around with this recipe and make it your own with these delightful twists!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with almond milk and coconut cream for a creamy, lactose-free version.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to introduce a zesty heat that dances on your palate. The blend of flavors will keep you reaching for another spoonful!
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Herbed Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or basil for a unique flavor profile. Just a hint can elevate your soup from comforting to gourmet.
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Smoky Flavor: Replace smoked paprika with a bit of smoked sausage or chorizo. This will add depth and a delightful rustic charm to your bowl.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and a pop of vibrant color. Their fresh notes perfectly complement the creamy base!
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Cheese Lover’s Dream: Mix in varieties like gouda or pepper jack for an extra kick of flavor and creaminess. The combination can make every bite a cheese lover’s fantasy!
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Crunch Factor: Top with homemade garlic croutons or crispy shallots instead of bacon for a delightful crunch and an aromatic twist. A simple, satisfying addition!
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Bread Bowl Delight: Serve your soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a fun presentation that’s sure to impress. Plus, you’ll have an extra snack waiting for you at the end!
What to Serve with Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?
Looking to create a heartwarming meal alongside your creamy soup? Let’s explore some delightful pairings!
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Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon makes a perfect contrast to the soup’s creamy texture, enhancing the savory flavors.
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Freshly Baked Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is ideal for dipping; its hearty texture complements the smoothness of the soup beautifully.
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Garden Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers brings a lightness that balances the richness of the soup.
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Cheddar Cheese Biscuits: Fluffy, cheesy biscuits or rolls echo the cheese in the soup, making for a comforting, indulgent experience.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted to caramelized perfection add earthy flavors and a vibrant color that’s visually appealing.
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Herbal Infused Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea can awaken the palate, offering a fragrant and soothing pairing for your cozy meal.
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Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay complements the creaminess with its crisp acidity and fruit notes, enhancing your dining experience.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, the sweetness of warm cookies will satisfy your cravings and round off your hearty meal perfectly.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the Yukon Gold potatoes and keep them in a bowl of cold water in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to prevent browning. Additionally, the onion and garlic can be sautéed and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When ready to finish your soup, simply heat the sautéed mixture, add the broth and prepped potatoes, and proceed with blending and adding the dairy. This not only saves you time on busy weeknights but also ensures the soup remains just as delicious and creamy. Enjoy a warm bowl of homemade comfort with minimal effort!
Storage Tips for Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
Freezer: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in a pot rather than the microwave to maintain creamy consistency. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup becomes too thick after freezing.
Serving Suggestions: When serving leftovers, consider adding fresh herbs or cheese on top to revitalize the flavors of your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup!
Expert Tips for Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
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Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this soup due to their creamy texture. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russet, which can lead to a grainy soup.
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Proper Roux Technique: When making the roux, cook the flour for just a few minutes to avoid a raw taste. A well-cooked roux is key to achieving that silky finish in your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup.
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Avoid Lumps: When adding the broth, pour it gradually while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. This ensures a smooth and creamy texture throughout.
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Adjust Seasoning: Don’t be shy with seasoning! Taste your soup before serving to adjust salt, pepper, and spices. A balanced flavor will elevate the dish, making every spoonful delightful.
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Blend to Preference: Use an immersion blender for a quick and easy way to purée your soup. Blend to your desired consistency—smooth or chunky—just remember that blending too long can make it overly creamy!
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Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Fresh herbs, crispy bacon, or a dollop of sour cream will add dimension to your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, making it a customizable favorite.
Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe Yukon Gold potatoes for the soup?
Absolutely! Look for Yukon Gold potatoes that are firm, smooth, and free from any dark spots or blemishes. Avoid those with sprouting eyes or soft spots, as they can affect the texture and flavor of your delicious Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup.
What is the best way to store leftover Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?
After enjoying your soup, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to keep it creamy.
Can I freeze Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup?
Sure! This soup freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before pouring it into freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave a little space at the top for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding a splash of milk or broth if necessary to restore its creamy texture.
What should I do if my soup is too thick after freezing?
Very good question! If your soup thickens after freezing, simply stir in some warm broth or milk while reheating it on low heat. This will bring back that nice, smooth consistency we all love in our Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, definitely! If you’re serving this soup to guests, be mindful of any dairy allergies. You can substitute the heavy cream and milk with non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk or cashew cream for a vegan option. Also, ensure that your broth is vegetable-based if you want it to be vegetarian-friendly.
What can I do if my soup has lumps after blending?
Oh, that can happen! If you find lumps in your soup after blending, try using an immersion blender to smooth it out further. Blend until you reach your preferred consistency. Alternatively, if you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches, but be careful with the hot liquid. Always vent the lid slightly to avoid pressure buildup!
Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup to Warm Your Soul
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel and chop the Yukon Gold potatoes into small pieces, ensuring even cooking and a creamy texture.
- In a large pot, heat unsalted butter or a mix of butter and olive oil over medium heat until melted and bubbly.
- Add the chopped yellow onion and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the flour and stir to create a light roux, cooking for a couple of minutes.
- Gradually add the broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add the potatoes to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency.
- Add the whole milk and heavy cream (if using) and heat through, being careful not to boil.
- Stir in the freshly shredded cheddar cheese and herbs, seasoning with salt, black pepper, cayenne, or paprika to taste.
- Serve your Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup hot, topped with optional crispy bacon or extra cheddar.