ULTIMATE CHEDDAR GARLIC HERB POTATO SOUP

Imagine a bowl filled with creamy, dreamy potato soup, infused with the pungent aroma of garlic, the comforting flavor of cheddar, and a medley of fresh herbs dancing on your tongue; that’s precisely what this Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup delivers. Say goodbye to bland weeknight dinners because this recipe is about to become your new favorite, guaranteed to warm you from the inside out.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus more for garnish
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Crispy bacon bits
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped green onions
• Croutons

Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure you stir occasionally to prevent burning!
3. Add the minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant. This step is crucial for building that delicious flavor base.

Step 2: Simmer the Potatoes

1. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the cubed potatoes.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender. This is where the magic happens; those potatoes are soaking up all those lovely flavors!

Step 3: Blend for Creaminess

1. Carefully transfer about 2 cups of the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender directly in the pot).
2. Blend until smooth and creamy. Be careful when blending hot liquids! If using a regular blender, vent the lid slightly to prevent pressure buildup.
3. Pour the blended soup back into the pot. This step is what gives our soup that amazing velvety texture.

Step 4: Add the Cheese and Cream

1. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth.
2. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Now, give it a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Don’t be shy with the salt – it really brings out the flavors!

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Herbs

1. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and chives.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings.

Tips for the Perfect Potato Soup

Choosing the Right Potatoes:

Yukon Gold potatoes are my go-to for potato soup because they have a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture. Russet potatoes will also work, but they tend to be starchier, so you might need to add a bit more liquid to achieve the desired consistency. Avoid using red potatoes, as they don’t break down as easily and won’t contribute to the creamy texture we’re after.

Achieving the Perfect Consistency:

The amount of soup you blend is key to controlling the thickness. If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend less. For a super smooth and creamy soup, blend a bit more. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the simmering soup if you want to thicken it further.

Boosting the Flavor:

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices! A pinch of smoked paprika can add a lovely smoky note. You could also try adding a bay leaf to the soup while it simmers, just remember to remove it before serving. For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch more red pepper flakes. If you love bacon, consider using bacon fat instead of olive oil to sauté the onions and garlic. The possibilities are endless!

Make-Ahead Tips:

This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can prepare the soup up to 2-3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be aware that the potatoes may absorb some of the liquid as it sits, so you might need to add a splash of broth or cream when reheating. I don’t recommend adding the cheddar cheese until you’re ready to serve the soup, as it can sometimes separate when reheated. Speaking of make-ahead meals, you might want to try out Addictive Crock Pot Potato Soup for another great easy meal.

Variations to Try

Loaded Baked Potato Soup:

Take this soup to the next level by adding all the fixings of a loaded baked potato! Top with crispy bacon bits, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. You could even add a dollop of butter for extra richness.

Broccoli Cheddar Potato Soup:

Add 1-2 cups of chopped broccoli florets to the soup along with the potatoes. The broccoli will cook right along with the potatoes and add a boost of nutrition and flavor. This is a great way to sneak in some extra veggies!

Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Potato Soup:

If you’re a fan of spicy food, add 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and minced, to the soup along with the onions and garlic. You can also add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat. This would pair nicely with Jalapeno Popper Soup Obsession if you’re looking for a spicy soup night.

Vegan Potato Soup:

To make this soup vegan, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream. You can also use a vegan cheddar cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Be sure to check out Velvet Vegetable Dream Soup for other great vegan options!

Serving Suggestions

This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is delicious on its own as a hearty and satisfying meal. However, it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with a crusty baguette for dipping, a grilled cheese sandwich, or a simple side salad. It’s also a wonderful starter for a more elaborate dinner. You could also enjoy it alongside Creamy Pasta Soup Heaven for a carbohydrate-filled feast. For a lighter meal, try it with Creamy Vegetable Soup Magic.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or cream to thin it out if it has thickened too much. I don’t recommend freezing this soup, as the potatoes can become grainy and the dairy can separate when thawed.

The Bottom Line

This Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for cozy nights in, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a comforting and flavorful meal. And if you’re looking for something similar with a keto twist, you might like Keto Cheeseburger Soup Bliss. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure deliciousness!