Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup: Cozy Comfort Food 🥔🧄🧀

1. Introduction

Nothing beats a warm bowl of potato soup when craving comfort food. This creamy potato soup recipe combines the rich flavors of sharp cheddar, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs to create a deliciously cheesy potato soup that feels like a hug in a bowl. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a wholesome, hearty meal, this cheesy potato soup is easy to prepare and irresistibly tasty. Dive into this cozy recipe that will quickly become a family favorite!

2. Ingredients for Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or full-fat milk
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: crispy bacon, green onions, additional cheese

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Preparing the Potatoes and Aromatics

Begin by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small, even pieces. In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Cooking the Potatoes

Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir well to coat them in the butter, garlic, and onion mixture. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Blending for Creaminess

Once the potatoes are soft, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. For a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer portions to a blender and puree until smooth, then return to the pot.

Adding Cheese and Herbs

Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, thyme, and parsley. Continue to heat gently until the cheese melts and the soup thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra cheesy flavor, add more shredded cheese at this stage.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Creamy Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup

Allow the soup to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days, and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to restore creaminess.

5. Serving Suggestions for a Perfect Cozy Meal

Serve this creamy potato soup topped with crispy bacon, chopped green onions, and extra shredded cheddar for a delightful presentation. Pair it with crusty bruschetta dip or a fresh garden salad to complete your meal. This soup also pairs beautifully with warm bread or garlic bread for dipping.

6. Making It Vegetarian or Vegan

To make this cheesy potato soup plant-based, substitute dairy ingredients with vegan cheese and plant-based milk, like almond or soy milk. Use veggie broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian or vegan-friendly.

7. Quick Tips and Tricks for Best Results

• Dice potatoes uniformly for even cooking.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting quality.
• For a gluten-free option, ensure your broth is gluten-free.
• Enhance flavor with seasonal herbs like rosemary or chives.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I substitute sweet potatoes for russet potatoes?

Yes, sweet potatoes will add a different sweetness and vibrant color to the soup, creating a slightly sweeter variation of this dessert-inspired potato soup.

How long does it take to prepare this potato soup?

The total prep and cooking time is approximately 40-45 minutes, making it a quick and hearty meal for busy weeknights.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, once cooled, store the soup in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed.

9. Conclusion

This creamy cheddar garlic herb potato soup is perfect for cozy nights and hearty family dinners. Its velvety texture, cheesy flavor, and fragrant herbs make it a true comfort food classic. Whether served as a standalone meal or with crusty bread, this potato soup is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings. Don’t forget to explore more delicious recipes like the Italian meatball soup or the white chicken chili for your next cozy dinner idea.

Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Perfect for crispy toppings and side dishes to complement your soup.
• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensures easy sautéing and boiling ingredients effortlessly.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: Add grilled cheese or crispy bacon topping to your soup for extra flavor.

Print