Lu-Ann Simon October 10, 2025

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Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

Name: Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2.5 lbs (about 1.1 kg) Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed into ½-inch pieces; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter OR 3 tablespoons olive oil + 1 tablespoon butter; 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1.5 cups); 5–6 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons); 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 4 cups (32 fl oz / 950 ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth; 2 cups (16 fl oz / 475 ml) whole milk (or half-and-half); 1/2 cup (4 fl oz / 120 ml) heavy cream (optional); 2 cups (about 8 oz / 225g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme); 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground (or to taste); Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (optional)

Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe

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There’s something intrinsically heartwarming about a bowl of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. Imagine curling up on a chilly evening, the air crisp and the world wrapped in silence, as this creamy delight simmers on the stovetop, filling your home with a rich aroma of garlic and wholesome herbs. This soup is not only comforting but also a celebration of flavors; it’s perfect for cozy family dinners, festive gatherings, or simply when you need a bowl of warmth to nourish your soul.

What Makes This Special

The Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe stands out for its creamy texture and robust flavor, making it an instant favorite among both family and friends. The combination of rich cheddar cheese, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs creates a delightful experience that warms you from the inside out.

Rich and creamy consistency
Loaded with flavor
Perfect for chilly nights
Quick and easy to prepare
Great for meal prep or leftovers

Gather These Ingredients

Creating this wholesome soup is simple, with ingredients that work harmoniously together. Feel free to swap some components based on your preferences or dietary needs. For instance, using olive oil instead of butter can lighten the dish while still keeping that wonderful flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

2.5 lbs (about 1.1 kg) Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed into ½-inch pieces (about 6-7 medium potatoes)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter OR 3 tablespoons olive oil + 1 tablespoon butter
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1.5 cups)
5–6 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (helps thicken the soup)
4 cups (32 fl oz / 950 ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups (16 fl oz / 475 ml) whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
1/2 cup (4 fl oz / 120 ml) heavy cream (optional, but recommended for ultimate creaminess)
2 cups (about 8 oz / 225g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded (avoid pre-shredded for better melting)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground (or to taste)
Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (optional, for a hint of warmth)

Step by Step

Start by peeling and chopping the Yukon Gold potatoes into ½-inch cubes. After chopping, rinse them under cold water and set aside, allowing them to prep for their delicious transformation.
In a large pot, melt the butter or heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until softened, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook until fragrant, another minute or so, allowing the aromas to fill your kitchen.
Next, sprinkle in the flour, stirring to create a roux. This will help thicken the soup, giving it that creamy texture we all love.
Gradually whisk in the low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors start to meld together beautifully.
Now, add the chopped potatoes to the pot. Cover and cook until they are tender, which typically takes around 15-20 minutes; they should be easy to pierce with a fork.
Once the potatoes are tender, take an immersion blender and blend part of the soup for added creaminess, being careful not to over-blend; you want some chunks of potato for texture.
Then, lower the heat and stir in the whole milk, heavy cream, fresh parsley, chives, and thyme. Let it heat gently, just until warmed through and flavors have combined.
Now it’s time to fold in the freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts beautifully into the soup.
Finally, season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper or smoked paprika if desired. Give it a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with a sprinkle of parsley or chives, and enjoy the comforting warmth!

Prep ~30 minutes, Cook ~30 minutes, Total ~1 hour, Servings ~6, Kcal ~350 (estimates).

Make-Ahead and Prep Tips

You can make this Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe ahead of time for a convenient and hearty meal. To prep, chop the vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to a day in advance. You can also prepare the soup entirely and refrigerate it. Just heat it up gently on the stovetop before serving, adding a splash of milk or broth if it thickens too much when reheating.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to save it for a longer duration, consider freezing it. In the freezer, the soup can last for about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth for creaminess. A great freshness tip is to top with fresh herbs before serving to brighten up the flavors.

Perfect Pairings

When it comes to serving this delightful Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe, here are some perfect pairings:

Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic choice that complements the soup’s richness and is always a hit.
A fresh green salad brings a crisp contrast to the creamy soup and lightens the meal.
Crispy breadsticks add a delightful crunch alongside every bowlful.
Roasted vegetables provide an excellent side, enhancing the meal’s wholesome goodness.
Garlic bread is a delicious way to soak up every drop of this savory soup.
A glass of white wine can elevate your dining experience, especially a crisp Sauvignon Blanc.

Variations and Swaps

This soup is wonderfully versatile, and you can have fun customizing it to your taste. Here are a few ideas:

Swap out Yukon Gold potatoes for sweet potatoes if you crave a sweeter flavor and a hint of color.
Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option while still keeping it creamy.
Add cooked bacon or ham for a savory twist and additional protein.
Consider mixing in seasonal vegetables, like carrots or corn, to enhance the nutritional value.
Spice it up with a dash of your favorite hot sauce to add a bit of kick.
Top with crispy fried onions or croutons for an extra textural element.

Cook’s Notes and Secrets

To achieve the best results with your Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe, keep these tips in mind:

Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamy texture; they hold their shape well when cooked.
Always freshly shred your cheese, as pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
When adding hot liquids to a roux, do it gradually to prevent lumps from forming.
Taste and adjust seasoning towards the end of cooking; the cheese can add saltiness, so be cautious.
Let the soup sit for a few minutes after cooking, allowing flavors to meld harmoniously.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is delicious, you can experiment with Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a bit of heat.
Is this soup gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for thickening.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just be sure to leave out the dairy if freezing and add it when reheating for best results.
How can I make it healthier?
Consider using low-fat milk instead of whole milk, reducing the amount of cheese, or loading it with extra vegetables.
What if I don’t have an immersion blender?
You can carefully transfer a portion of the soup to a regular blender. Just make sure to let it cool slightly to avoid splatters.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup Recipe is a warm embrace in a bowl, with its rich flavors and creamy texture delighting taste buds with every spoonful. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe invites you to gather around the table, share stories, and enjoy the simple pleasures of home-cooked comfort food. Don’t wait any longer; embrace the joy of cooking this delicious soup soon and savor the warmth it brings to you and your loved ones.

Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Author: lu-ann
Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A rich and creamy potato soup loaded with cheddar cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs, perfect for chilly nights.

Instructions

Peel and chop the Yukon Gold potatoes into ½-inch cubes, rinse under cold water and set aside.
In a large pot, melt the butter or heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Sprinkle in the flour, stirring to create a roux.
Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add the chopped potatoes, cover, and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Blend part of the soup with an immersion blender to achieve creaminess while keeping some chunks for texture.
Lower the heat and stir in the whole milk, heavy cream, parsley, chives, and thyme. Heat gently until warmed.
Fold in the sharp cheddar cheese until melted.
Season with salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne or smoked paprika. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley or chives, and enjoy.