Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly day, a culinary hug that nourishes both body and soul. I find immense joy in crafting dishes that offer profound comfort, and this particular creation stands as a testament to simple, wholesome ingredients transformed into something truly extraordinary. For centuries, potato soup has been a humble staple in countless cultures, from the rustic kitchens of Europe to the comforting tables across America, evolving from basic sustenance into a beloved, versatile classic.
What makes this interpretation so universally adored, I believe, is its masterful blend of creamy, tender potatoes, the sharp, irresistible tang of cheddar cheese, the aromatic kick of fresh garlic, and a fragrant medley of herbs. Each spoonful delivers a satisfyingly thick texture and a rich, complex flavour profile that lingers delightfully.
It’s the perfect harmony of robust taste and comforting warmth that makes this soup an instant favourite.
Preparing this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe isn’t merely about cooking; it’s about creating an experience, a moment of blissful indulgence that feels both luxurious and genuinely homemade. It’s an ideal choice for a cozy evening, family gathering, or simply when you crave a truly satisfying and flavourful dish.
Ingredients:
Here’s everything we’ll need to create our incredibly comforting and flavorful Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe. Gather these fresh, wholesome ingredients, and let’s get ready to cook something truly special!
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced (about 1.5 cups)
- 2 stalks celery, finely diced (about 1 cup)
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced (about 1.5 tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried bay leaves (or 1 small whole bay leaf)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth (ensure it’s good quality for best flavor)
- 3 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes (about 6-7 medium potatoes)
- 2 cups whole milk (or 2% milk for a slightly lighter option)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for that extra luxurious texture)
- 4 cups (about 1 pound) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated (trust me, grating your own makes a huge difference!)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped, plus extra for garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped, plus extra for garnish
- 1.5 teaspoons salt (or to taste, broth varies in sodium content)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground is always best)
- Optional garnishes: Crispy bacon bits, extra shredded cheddar, a dollop of sour cream, more fresh herbs.
Preparing Our Hearty Foundations
Before we even think about turning on the stove, let’s get all of our ingredients prepped and ready to go. This “mise en place” (everything in its place) approach makes the cooking process so much smoother and more enjoyable, especially for a multi-step dish like our Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe. It ensures we can add ingredients at just the right moment, without scrambling.
- First things first, let’s tackle those potatoes. Grab your 3 pounds of Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. I personally love Russets for their creamy texture when cooked down, but Yukon Golds also work wonderfully, offering a slightly waxier hold. Peel them carefully, then cut them into uniform 1/2-inch cubes. Uniformity is key here; it ensures that all our potato pieces cook evenly and are tender at the same time. Once cubed, place them in a large bowl and cover them with cold water. This prevents them from oxidizing and turning brown while we prep our other ingredients.
- Next, let’s move onto our aromatics. Take your large yellow onion and finely dice it. We’re aiming for small, consistent pieces here, as they’ll melt into the soup, releasing their sweet flavor without being chunky.
- Grab your 2 stalks of celery. Just like the onion, we want to finely dice these. They add a subtle, fresh crunch and an essential aromatic base to our Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe.
- Now for the star of the show, garlic! Peel and mince your 4-5 cloves of garlic. If you love garlic as much as I do, don’t be shy about adding an extra clove or two. Freshly minced garlic provides an incomparable punch of flavor that garlic powder simply can’t replicate.
- Measure out your 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour. This will be crucial later for thickening our soup and giving it that luxurious body.
- Prepare your fresh herbs: finely chop your 1/4 cup of fresh parsley and your 2 tablespoons of fresh chives. We’ll add most of these at the end to preserve their vibrant flavor and color, but having them ready is a time-saver.
- Finally, and this is a step you absolutely shouldn’t skip for the best Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe: grate your 4 cups of sharp cheddar cheese yourself. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make it melt poorly and result in a grainy texture. Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully, creating a wonderfully smooth and creamy soup. Trust me, it’s worth the extra minute or two of effort!
Building the Aromatic Base
This is where the magic truly begins for our Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe. Creating a deep, aromatic base is fundamental to developing the rich, complex flavors that will make this soup so incredibly satisfying. Don’t rush these initial steps; they lay the groundwork for everything delicious that follows.
- Heat a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once warm, add your 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. The combination of butter and oil provides a lovely flavor and helps prevent the butter from browning too quickly, allowing us to sauté our vegetables gently.
- Once the butter has melted and the oil is shimmering, add your finely diced onion and celery to the pot. Stir them well to coat them in the butter and oil.
- Sauté the onions and celery for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. We’re looking for them to become very soft and translucent, almost melting into the pan, but without browning too much. This slow cooking allows their natural sugars to caramelize slightly, building a foundational sweetness and depth of flavor for our Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe. The aroma in your kitchen should start to become wonderfully fragrant and inviting at this stage!
- Now, it’s time to introduce our minced garlic. Add it to the pot along with the softened onions and celery. Stir continuously for just 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic can taste bitter and ruin the delicate flavor profile we’re aiming for. We just want it to become fragrant and release its pungent, sweet aroma.
- Sprinkle in the 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and your 1/2 teaspoon of dried bay leaves (or the single whole bay leaf). Stir these herbs in with the vegetables for another minute. Heating dried herbs in oil helps to “bloom” them, releasing their essential oils and intensifying their flavor, which will permeate our entire Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe.
Developing Depth and Texture
Now that our aromatics are fragrant and sweet, it’s time to introduce the thickening agent and the main star of our Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe: the potatoes! This phase is crucial for developing the soup’s comforting, creamy texture and ensuring all the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Once the herbs have bloomed, sprinkle the 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the flour is thoroughly cooked. This step is incredibly important; we’re creating a roux, which is the thickening base for our soup. Cooking the flour sufficiently eliminates that raw, starchy taste and ensures a smooth, silky texture for our Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe. The mixture will look like a thick, pasty consistency.
- Gradually whisk in the 6 cups of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, a cup at a time. Whisk continuously as you add each cup to prevent lumps from forming. The mixture will initially be very thick, then slowly smooth out as you incorporate more liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, still whisking occasionally until it thickens slightly. This gradual addition and whisking creates a beautifully smooth base.
- Drain the cubed potatoes that you’ve kept in cold water. Add them directly to the simmering broth in the pot. Stir gently to ensure the potatoes are fully submerged in the flavorful liquid.
- Bring the soup back to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. You want them tender enough to easily mash or break apart, but not completely disintegrated. Periodically stir the soup to prevent the potatoes from sticking to the bottom of the pot. During this simmering time, the potatoes will absorb the delicious flavors from our aromatic base, becoming truly infused for our Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe.
The Creamy, Cheesy Transformation
This is arguably the most exciting part of making our Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe! We’re about to add the dairy and cheese that will transform our humble potato and broth mixture into a rich, velvety, and utterly irresistible culinary delight. Get ready for some serious comfort food magic!
- Once the potatoes are fork-tender, remove the bay leaf (if you used a whole one) from the pot and discard it. You don’t want to bite into that!
- Reduce the heat to its lowest setting. Gradually pour in the 2 cups of whole milk and the 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients. It’s crucial to keep the heat low at this point; bringing dairy to a rapid boil can cause it to curdle, especially with the addition of cheese later. We want a gentle warmth, not a rolling boil.
- Now for the main event: add your 4 cups of freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese to the pot, a handful at a time. Stir continuously with each addition until the cheese is completely melted and incorporated. The soup will become wonderfully thick, creamy, and gloriously golden. Stirring slowly and patiently is key here to achieve that perfectly smooth, luscious texture without any clumping. This is where our Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe truly earns its name!
- Once all the cheese has melted, stir in the majority of your finely chopped fresh parsley and fresh chives. Reserve a small amount for garnish. The fresh herbs add a burst of vibrant flavor and color that perfectly complements the rich creaminess of the soup.
Seasoning and Final Touches
We’re almost there! This final stage is all about balancing the flavors and preparing our Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe for its grand debut. A little attention to detail here will elevate your soup from simply good to absolutely unforgettable.
- Taste the soup. This is your chance to really make it your own! Add 1.5 teaspoons of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, or adjust to your preference. Remember, the saltiness of your broth and cheese can vary, so always taste and adjust. I often find a little extra fresh black pepper really enhances the warmth of this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe.
- If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can serve it as is. However, for an even creamier consistency, you have a couple of options:
- For a slightly smoother but still rustic texture: Use a potato masher to gently mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot. Mash just enough to break up about half of the potato chunks, leaving the rest intact for some bite.
- For an ultra-creamy, velvety texture: Carefully transfer about 2-3 cups of the soup to a blender (be very cautious with hot liquids – only fill the blender halfway, vent the lid, and cover with a kitchen towel). Blend until smooth, then return it to the pot and stir to combine. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot, blending until you reach your desired consistency, ensuring you don’t over-blend into a completely uniform puree unless that’s your preference. I like a mix, where some potato pieces remain as delightful surprises in my Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe.
- Allow the soup to simmer gently for another 5 minutes on very low heat, stirring occasionally. This gives all the incredible flavors one last chance to marry and deepen, ensuring every spoonful of our Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is bursting with deliciousness.
- Ladle generous portions of the warm Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe into bowls. For an extra touch of indulgence and visual appeal, garnish each serving with those reserved fresh herbs (parsley and chives), a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits, a few extra shreds of cheddar cheese, or even a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy contrast.
- Serve immediately with some crusty bread for dipping, a fresh green salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort food experience. Enjoy the fruits of your labor! This soup is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave something truly comforting and delicious.
Conclusion:
So, there you have it, friends! We’ve journeyed through the steps of creating what I genuinely believe is one of the most comforting and satisfying dishes you could ever whip up in your own kitchen. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl, a truly exceptional experience that I’m so excited for you to discover. The moment you take that first spoonful, you’ll understand why I’m so passionate about this particular concoction. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, that warms you to your very core on a chilly evening, and that offers a delightful burst of flavor with every single bite.
What makes this specific Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe an absolute non-negotiable addition to your cooking repertoire? Well, for starters, it’s the incredible depth of flavor that develops from humble ingredients. We’re talking about the rich, nutty notes of perfectly melted cheddar, harmonizing beautifully with the pungent, sweet undertones of roasted garlic. Then, those fresh, vibrant herbs – parsley, chives, maybe a hint of thyme or dill, depending on your preference – cut through the richness, adding a layer of sophisticated freshness that elevates the entire dish from simply good to truly unforgettable. It’s a symphony of savory notes, each ingredient playing its part to create a cohesive and utterly delicious whole. Trust me, your taste buds are in for a treat.
And let’s not forget the texture! Creamy, dreamy potatoes, cooked until they’re just tender enough to break down and meld into a luscious, velvety base, but still offering those delightful morsels of potatoey goodness that give the soup its signature ‘hearty’ appeal. It’s substantial without being heavy, comforting without being cloying. It’s the perfect balance, a true culinary masterpiece that manages to be both profoundly satisfying and remarkably light on its feet. It’s also surprisingly easy to achieve such restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen, which, let’s be honest, is a huge win for any home cook looking to impress without the stress. This soup truly delivers on all fronts – taste, texture, and ease of preparation.
Elevate Your Bowl: Serving Suggestions and Delicious Variations
Now, while this soup is absolutely stellar on its own, I’m a firm believer in personalizing your culinary creations. Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own! For serving, I highly recommend a generous sprinkle of extra shredded sharp cheddar or some crumbly, crispy bacon bits right before serving – because, really, can you ever have too much cheese or bacon? A scattering of freshly chopped chives or green onions not only adds a pop of color but also a wonderful, delicate oniony freshness. For a little crunch, some homemade croutons or a side of crusty artisan bread for dipping are always a welcome addition. Imagine dunking a thick slice of sourdough into that warm, creamy goodness – pure bliss! It’s the small details that can transform an already amazing dish into an unforgettable meal, and these simple additions are guaranteed to do just that.
But let’s talk about variations, because this soup is incredibly versatile. Want to add a protein boost? Cooked, shredded chicken or diced ham can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking, transforming it into an even more substantial meal, perfect for those extra hungry evenings. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce stirred in can provide a delightful kick that complements the creamy richness beautifully. And if you’re looking to play with the herb profile, consider adding a touch of fresh rosemary or a bay leaf during the simmering process for an even deeper, more complex aroma. For my vegetarian and vegan friends, fear not! You can easily adapt this recipe by using vegetable broth, your favorite plant-based milk (oat or cashew milk works wonderfully for creaminess), and a good quality dairy-free cheddar alternative. The essence of the soup remains, providing all the comfort without compromising on dietary preferences, proving just how adaptable this incredible recipe truly is.
You could even turn it into a loaded baked potato soup by adding small dollops of sour cream or Greek yogurt right into individual bowls, creating that classic flavor profile we all adore. Sometimes, I like to serve it alongside a simple, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette – the freshness offers a lovely counterpoint to the rich, hearty soup. Or, for a truly indulgent experience, a grilled cheese sandwich made with artisan bread and a blend of cheeses makes for an unbeatable pairing, creating the ultimate comfort food duo. The possibilities are truly endless, limited only by your imagination and what you have on hand in your pantry. Feel free to experiment and discover your own favorite combinations!
Your Turn: Try It, Love It, Share It!
So, what are you waiting for? This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create warmth, comfort, and unforgettable flavors in your own kitchen. I genuinely encourage each and every one of you to set aside some time soon to whip up this magnificent dish. Gather your ingredients, put on some music, and enjoy the process of bringing this incredible soup to life. Trust me, the aroma alone will be enough to get your taste buds tingling, and the first spoonful will confirm that you made an excellent decision. This is more than just cooking; it’s an experience, a moment of joy that you absolutely deserve to indulge in.
Once you’ve experienced the magic of this soup, I would absolutely love to hear about it! Please don’t be shy; come back and share your cooking journey with us. Did you add your own unique twist? What did your family and friends think? Did it become an instant favorite? Your experiences and feedback are incredibly valuable and inspiring to me and to our entire community of food lovers. Take a picture, tell us your story, and let’s celebrate the joy of home cooking together. Happy cooking, everyone – I can’t wait to see what deliciousness you create and hear all about your amazing soup adventures!
Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
A warm embrace on a chilly day, this comforting soup blends creamy potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs into a deeply satisfying and flavorful meal. It’s an ideal choice for a cozy evening or family gathering.
Ingredients
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2.5 lbs (1.1 kg) Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled, 1/2-inch cubed
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1 tablespoon unsalted butter
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3 tablespoons olive oil
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1 large yellow onion, finely diced
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2 stalks celery, finely diced
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5 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1/2 teaspoon dried bay leaves
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1/4 cup all-purpose flour
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4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
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2 cups whole milk
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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2 cups (8 oz) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
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1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
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1.5 teaspoons salt
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0.5 teaspoon black pepper
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Crispy beef bits (for garnish)
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Extra shredded cheddar (for garnish)
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Sour cream (for garnish)
Instructions
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Step 1
Prep Ingredients: Peel and cube potatoes (keep in cold water). Finely dice onion and celery. Mince garlic. Finely chop parsley and chives (reserve some for garnish). Grate cheddar cheese. -
Step 2
Build Aromatic Base: Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion and celery for 8-10 minutes until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic, dried thyme, and bay leaves; cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant (do not burn garlic). -
Step 3
Thicken Soup: Sprinkle flour over vegetables; stir and cook for 2-3 minutes to create a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken or vegetable broth, one cup at a time, until smooth and slightly thickened. Bring to a gentle simmer. -
Step 4
Cook Potatoes: Drain cubed potatoes and add them to the simmering broth. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender, stirring occasionally. -
Step 5
Creamy & Cheesy Transformation: Remove and discard the bay leaf. Reduce heat to low. Stir in whole milk and heavy cream. Add freshly grated cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring continuously until completely melted and smooth. Stir in most of the fresh parsley and chives. -
Step 6
Season & Serve: Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper to your preference. For a smoother soup, gently mash some potatoes or use an immersion blender to achieve desired consistency. Simmer for another 5 minutes on low heat. Ladle into bowls and garnish with reserved herbs, crispy beef bits, extra cheddar, or a dollop of sour cream. Serve immediately with crusty bread.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
Allergy Information
Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
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