Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is a warm and comforting dish perfect for chilly days. This creamy soup combines the rich flavors of cheddar cheese, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs, making it an ideal choice for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. Its hearty texture and delightful taste make it a standout option for both casual lunches and festive occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The blend of sharp cheddar, garlic, and fresh herbs creates a mouthwatering taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this delicious soup ready in no time.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or side dish; it’s perfect for any meal, whether it’s lunch or dinner.
- Comforting Warmth: This soup is thick, creamy, and full of potato goodness, providing the ultimate comfort food experience during cold months.
- Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings like crumbled bacon or sour cream for extra flavor and texture.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin cooking, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Standard blender or immersion blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing room for all ingredients.
- Blender: A standard blender helps achieve a smooth consistency; an immersion blender provides convenience without transferring hot liquids.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of flavors in your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Potatoes: 2.5 lbs (about 1.1 kg) Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed into آ½-inch pieces (about 6-7 medium potatoes)
- Fat: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter OR 3 tablespoons olive oil + 1 tablespoon butter
- Aromatics: 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1.5 cups)
- Garlic: 5-6 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
- Flour: 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (helps thicken the soup)
- Liquid Base: 4 cups (32 fl oz / 950 ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
For Creaminess
- Milk: 2 cups (16 fl oz / 475 ml) whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
- Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup (4 fl oz / 120 ml) heavy cream (optional but recommended for ultimate creaminess)
For Flavor
- Cheese: 2 cups (about 8 oz / 225g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded (avoid pre-shredded for better melting)
- Herbs: 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Seasoning: 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground (or to taste); pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (optional)
Optional Garnish
- Cooked crumbled bacon
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- More fresh chives or parsley
- Croutons
How to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Peel your Yukon Gold potatoes and chop them into uniform آ½-inch cubes. Rinse the cubed potatoes under cold water to remove excess starch – this helps prevent the soup from becoming gummy. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the butter (or olive oil/butter combination). Once melted and shimmering, add the finely chopped yellow onion. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until softened but not browned.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute or two while stirring constantly until fragrant. Avoid burning the garlic as it can become bitter.
Step 4: Create Roux
Sprinkle all-purpose flour over sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously while cooking for about one to two minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.
Step 5: Incorporate Broth
Gradually whisk in chicken or vegetable broth little by little while scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any flavorful browned bits. Bring to a simmer once fully incorporated.
Step 6: Cook Potatoes
Add rinsed potato cubes to the pot. Stir well and bring back to a gentle simmer before reducing heat to medium-low. Cover and let cook for about 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
Step 7: Blend Soup
Carefully ladle about half of the soup into a standard blender. Secure lid tightly but vent by removing center cap covered with a kitchen towel. Blend until smooth then pour back into pot.
Step 8: Add Dairy
Reduce heat to low. Slowly pour in whole milk (and heavy cream if using), stirring constantly. Mix in parsley, chives, thyme, stirring well before allowing gently heating through without boiling.
Step 9: Melt Cheese
Remove from heat completely. Gradually add shredded sharp cheddar cheese handful by handful while stirring continuously until each addition melts fully before adding more.
Step 10: Season Soup
Taste your creamy soup before seasoning generously with salt, black pepper, plus cayenne pepper or smoked paprika if desired.
Step 11: Serve
Ladle hot soup into bowls and garnish with toppings such as crumbled bacon, extra cheese, sour cream, fresh herbs, or croutons as preferred. Enjoy immediately!
How to Serve Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
Serving your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup can elevate the experience and bring out its comforting flavors. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that complement this rich and creamy soup.
Garnish Ideas
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top for a burst of freshness.
- Crumbled Bacon: Add crispy bacon bits for a savory crunch.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and tanginess.
Bread Pairings
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread or a baguette for dipping.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread complements the garlic flavor in the soup beautifully.
Additional Toppings
- Extra Cheese: Top with additional shredded cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy delight.
- Croutons: Add homemade or store-bought croutons for texture.
Side Salads
- Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
- Caesar Salad: A Caesar salad adds a touch of crispness and flavor contrast.
How to Perfect Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
To achieve the best version of your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and high-quality cheese to enhance flavors.
- Control the Thickness: Adjust the amount of flour based on how thick you prefer your soup.
- Blend Carefully: When blending, allow steam to escape from the blender to prevent splatter.
- Add Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go, especially with salt, since cheese adds saltiness too.
- Keep It Warm: After adding dairy, keep the soup on low heat to avoid curdling.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for extra warmth.
Best Side Dishes for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your hearty soup can enhance the meal. Here are some great options that complement your dish perfectly.
- Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad provides a light contrast to the creamy soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The gooeyness of grilled cheese pairs wonderfully with potato soup.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: These flavorful bites add an elegant touch to your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies offer a healthy side option and balance flavors.
- Cheesy Biscuits: Flaky, cheesy biscuits make perfect companions for dipping into your soup.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges echo the main ingredient while adding crunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a delicious Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:
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Neglecting potato prep: Not rinsing the cubed potatoes can lead to a gummy texture in your soup. Always rinse them under cold water to remove excess starch.
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Overcooking garlic: Cooking garlic for too long will make it bitter. Add minced garlic after the onions are softened and cook for just 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Skipping the roux: Failing to create a roux with flour can result in a thin soup. Make sure you sprinkle flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, cooking it briefly before adding liquids.
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Adding dairy too early: Adding milk or cream while the soup is boiling can cause curdling. Always lower the heat before incorporating dairy ingredients for a smooth texture.
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Using pre-shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Opt for freshly shredded sharp cheddar for the best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
- Leave space at the top of the container as the soup may expand when frozen.
Reheating Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot and heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe:
How can I make my Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider including a pinch of cayenne pepper or using smoked paprika during cooking.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives great flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for variation.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes! This soup freezes well when stored properly in airtight containers, making it perfect for meal prep.
How do I ensure my soup remains creamy?
Add dairy off the heat after thickening and blending your soup. This prevents curdling and ensures a smooth consistency.
What toppings work best with this potato soup?
Popular toppings include crumbled bacon, extra shredded cheese, fresh herbs like chives or parsley, sour cream, and crunchy croutons.
Final Thoughts
This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding more vegetables or different herbs according to your taste preferences. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a warm bowl of happiness!
Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Indulge in the warmth of our Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, a creamy delight that’s perfect for chilly days. This comforting soup combines tender Yukon Gold potatoes with sharp cheddar cheese, aromatic garlic, and a medley of fresh herbs. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s an ideal choice for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Whether enjoyed as a main course or side dish, this delicious potato chowder will warm your heart and bring smiles to the table.
Ingredients
- 2.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (or olive oil)
- 1 large yellow onion
- 5–6 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half)
- Fresh herbs (parsley, chives, thyme)
Instructions
- Peel and cube potatoes into ½-inch pieces; rinse under cold water.
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion until softened.
- Add minced garlic; cook until fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour into the pot; stir for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in broth; bring to a simmer.
- Add potatoes; cover and cook until tender (15–20 minutes).
- Blend half of the soup until smooth; return to pot.
- Stir in milk and herbs; gently heat through.
- Remove from heat and gradually mix in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
